Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are contracted through unprotected sexual contact with body fluids such as blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. The highest rates of STIs are in people between the ages of 15 and 25. Your kids may have already heard about STIs at school - so the best way to prepare yourself to talk about this vital subject is to learn about them too.

Though HIV/AIDS has dominated the headlines for the last two decades, there are many other types of STI - the human papillomavirus (HPV), chlamydia and genital herpes, to name just a few. Once you're prepared, you can sit down with your son or daughter and have a calm, open and honest discussion.
Remember: It's good to warn them about STIs, but it's much better to make sure they have all the the facts, too.

STI or STD?

Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) and Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) are two terms for the same thing. STI, the term used throughout this website, is slightly more precise, as the infection comes first and is what needs to be prevented. The disease starts after a person has been infected.