STI Basics

July 6, 2022

Q: Will I die if I get an STI?

A: Absolutely not. Most STIs are easily treatable, and often you just need to take some medicine for a week or so. It’s really not a big deal.

Q: Will using a condom stop me from getting an STI?

A: Not completely, but it is a hell of a lot better than not using one. Condoms can reduce the chance of STI transmission by up to 90%.

Q: How can I tell if someone has an STI?

A: More often than not, you can’t. Sometimes people show symptoms (which vary from STI to STI), but sometimes they don’t and are still infectious. You can’t know for sure if someone has an STI, so it is best to always practice safer sex and use barrier methods.

Q: I think I may have an STI, where do I go?

A: To the doctor! To a sexual health clinic! You can even do it from the comfort of your own home! Check out our resources about STI Testing for more information.

Q: I don’t have sex with anyone who has a penis. Why would I use a condom?

A: You don’t! But you should use a dental dam instead.