What to do if you think you have a Sexually Transmitted Disease??

Sexually Transmitted Diseases can be transmitted by you or your regular partner having virginal, oral or anal sex without using a condom.
If you do begin to suffer from any symptoms do not wait for them to clear up. Although some symptoms do go away without treatment this does not mean the infection has gone away and if left untreated the infection can get worse and in some cases lead to permanent damage.
If you are worried that you may have caught something then always get it checked: by a doctor or at the nearest GUM (Genito Urinary Medicine) clinic, they give free confidential advice. In Canterbury the nearest one is the Gate Clinic in the Kent and Canterbury Hospital call 01227 783120.

Clinic Opening Times:

Walk-in clinic available:
Monday: 9am - 11.30am AND 1.30pm - 4pm
Tuesday: 9am - 11.30am AND 1.30pm - 4pm
Wednesday: 9am - 11.30am AND 1.30pm - 4pm
Thursday: 1.30pm - 4pm
Friday: 9am - 11.30am

Appointment Only:
Thursday: 17.30 - 7pm
Friday: 1.30pm - 4pm

In Broadstairs contact;
Dept of Genitourinary Medicine QEQM Hospital, Margate 01843 227903 to book an appointment.

Symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Diseases:
There are various types of STDs, some you may have heard of like HIV, and some others are listed below. More information about these STD’s are available from your the Sexual Health clinics detailed above.

• Syphilis
• Herpes
• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhoea (clap)
• Genital warts
• Genital and Vaginal Thrush (this can also happen when no intercourse has taken place)
• Syphilis

STD’s can effect anyone who is having unprotected sex, regardless of if you are young or old, male or female, straight, gay or lesbian and wherever you come from.

Most STD’s can be easily treated but only if they are detected in time. Symptoms are not always apparent and may even remain dormant until it is too late. People who already have a STD will often not display any symptoms of having any STD’s. Therefore the best way to deal with STD’s is protect you from them in the first place, practise safe sex.

Some of the warning signs that you may have a STD include:

• Unusual discharges from the penis or vagina
• Rashes
• Itchiness
• Sores
• Blisters
• Pain in the genital area
• A burning sensation when you pass urine or having sex
• Urinating more than usual
• A temperature or flu like fever
Remember you may not display any of these symptoms and can still have a STD, therefore if you have had unprotected sex gets medical advice as soon as possible. But remember that prevention is better than cure!

Be Safe Wear a CONDOM!!!!!!
Pick up your condoms from the Welfare and Education Office in the Students’ Union!!

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