How STIs Spread?

You can get an STI through:

• Unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
• Skin-to-skin contact with infected areas (like herpes or genital warts).
• Sharing unclean needles, syringes, or sharp objects.
• From an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
• Rarely, through poorly screened blood transfusions.

You cannot get STIs by hugging, shaking hands, sharing toilets, or eating with someone who has one.

 

Common STIs in Africa

• HIV/AIDS
• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis
• Chlamydia
• Genital herpes (HSV)
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Trichomoniasis
• Hepatitis B

Many young women in Sub-Saharan Africa carry bacterial STIs without knowing it, which may harm reproductive health if not treated.
Untreated STIs in pregnancy can infect the baby and cause low birth weight or illness in newborns.

 

Symptoms of STIs

Many STIs show no symptoms, but when present, they may include:

• Unusual genital discharge
• Pain or burning when urinating
• Sores, rashes, or warts on the genitals
• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• Itching or discomfort during sex

If you notice any of these, see a healthcare provider immediately.

 

How to Prevent STIs

You can protect yourself and your partner by combining several methods:

1. Practice Safe Sex

• Always use male or female condoms correctly during sex.
• For oral sex, use dental dams or cut-open condoms.
• Do not share sex toys. If shared, clean them and use a new condom each time.
• Check the expiry date and condition of condoms before use.

2. Limit Partners & Get Tested

• Be faithful to one partner who has tested negative for STIs.
• Reduce the number of sexual partners to lower your risk.
• Get tested with your partner before deciding to stop using condoms.
• Pregnant women should be screened for STIs to protect their babies.

3. Get Vaccinated

• HPV vaccine helps prevent cervical and other cancers. It is free for girls aged 9–14 in many African countries.
• Hepatitis B vaccine prevents infection with the HBV virus.
• Vaccines are safe, effective, and strongly recommended.

4. Avoid Risky Behaviours

• Never share needles or sharp objects.
• Avoid sex under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• Delay sexual activity until you are emotionally ready and informed.

5. Male Circumcision

Research shows that circumcision reduces the risk of HIV, HPV, and herpes in men.

6. Communication & Education

• Talk openly with your partner about STI testing and protection.
• Ask questions during clinic visits about STI screening and prevention.
• Learn about available services and your right to confidential care.

 

Testing and Treatment

Testing

Doctors or nurses can test you using urine, swabs, or blood samples. Regular testing is important, especially for young people, pregnant women, and those with multiple partners.

Treatment

• Bacterial STIs (like gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis) can be cured with antibiotics.
• Viral STIs (like HIV, herpes, HPV, hepatitis B) can’t be cured completely, but treatment helps control symptoms and prevents spread.
• Always complete your full course of medicine even if you feel better.
• Your partner(s) should also be tested and treated to avoid reinfection.

 

Overcoming Stigma and Cultural Barriers

Many people fear shame or discrimination after an STI diagnosis. Remember:

• STIs are medical conditions — not a moral failure.
• You can live a long, healthy life with the right care and treatment.
• Seek support from trusted health workers or counselors.
• Encourage open conversation and education in your community.

 

Where to Get Help

You can find confidential STI testing and treatment at:

• Primary health clinics and hospitals
• Reproductive or sexual health centers
• Youth-friendly clinics
• Ministry of Health programs
• NGOs that focus on sexual and reproductive health
• Hotlines or helplines in your country