Types of Sexually Transmitted Infections

Chlamydia is a common bacterial infection that is curable with antibiotics.

Crabs or pubic lice are parasites that are very itchy and live in the pubic hair.

Genital Herpes is a common viral infection that can cause painful sores that occasionally appear on and around the genitals.

HPV is a very common sexually transmitted infection. HPV is so common that it is thought to be the most common STI in Canada. Most sexually active people will have it at one point in their life.

Gonorrhea is a common bacterial infection that is curable with antibiotics.

Hepatitis is a virus that affects the liver, which filters our blood. Many people in Canada are vaccinated for both Hep A and Hep B (Twinrix) together.

HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. HIV spreads through the body and targets the immune system, making it hard for the body to fight off illnesses.

Scabies is an infestation of the skin by the human itch mite, where microscopic mites burrow into the upper layer of the skin and lay their eggs, causing itchiness and spreading infection.

Syphilis is a bacterial infection passed on during its contagious stages either by contact with an open sore near genitals or the mouth or after the sores have disappeared and are replaced by a rash that is accompanied by flu-like symptoms.

Trichomoniasis or “trich” is a parasite that can be spread during sex.