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Types of sexually transmitted infections

Common

  • Genital warts
  • Chlamydia
  • Non-specific urethritis (NSU)
  • Genital herpes
  • Gonorrhoea (or the clap)

Less common

  • Trichomonas vaginalis (TV)
  • Syphilis (the pox)
  • HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
  • Hepatitis B and C
  • Infestations, including scabies and pubic lice (crabs)

Some of these infections are very serious. For example, HIV is the virus which causes AIDS. Hepatitis B can cause liver problems such as cirrhosis (scarring) or liver cancer. Syphilis can cause permanent damage to the heart, brain and nervous system if left untreated.

Other infections are occasionally, but not always, spread through sexual contact. These include thrush, bacterial vaginosis and cystitis.