STI's

Sexually transmitted infections are on the rise in the NT!

STIs are infections that can be spread during sexual contact (vaginal, anal, oral sex). They used to be called STDs or sexually transmitted diseases.

Some infections like herpes and warts can also be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact.


STIs can be scary because most of them have no symptoms, so you don't know you have them. Young people are especially at risk of an STI called chlamydia, which is very common. If chlamydia is left untreated, it could leave you infertile (which means you can't have a baby). Most STIs are easily treated so it's important to have an STI test if you have had sex without a condom. STI tests are quick and painless (usually a simple urine test) and are usually free.


Remember that condoms are the only form of contraception that will protect you from both STIs and unplanned pregnancy. Use water based lubricant when you use a condom because this will help stop the condom from breaking.


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More information

  • Chlamydia

    One of the most common STIs in Australia, and one of the sneakiest, as it often has no symptoms. However, it can cause genital pain in men and women, and lead to infertility in women. It's treated with antibiotics.

  • Gonorrhoea

    Previously rare in young, urban heterosexuals, this disease is up 63 per cent in this group over the past five years. It can cause genital and anal pain and discharge in both men and women, as well as a sore, dry throat. Untreated, it can lead to fertility problems for women. It's treated with antibiotics.

  • Syphilis

    This bacterial infection causes various symptoms including sores, rashes and fever. Left untreated, it can eventually lead to serious damage to organs including the brain and heart. Syphilis is seeing a resurgence, especially among young Indigenous Australians. It's treated with penicillin, with repeat blood tests to make sure the treatment has worked.

  • HIV

    Once considered a death sentence, this virus is stable in Australia, with gay and bisexual men (a high-risk group) increasingly using HIV medications to prevent its spread. HIV can't be cured, but it can be managed with antiretroviral treatment.

  • Hepatitis B

    This inflammation of the liver can lead to fever, fatigue, jaundice and nausea — but half of people with the infection don't have symptoms, which is why it's important to get checked. There is no cure for Hepatitis B, although most infected people make a full recovery. It can turn into a serious health problem for a small percentage of people, and can also be passed from a mother to her unborn baby. The best protection against Hepatitis B is to get immunised.

  • Herpes

    This is a common skin infection that has mild symptoms for most people, including blisters and stinging or tingling in the affected area. You can't cure herpes, but most people will find the recurrences become milder and less frequent, and many eventually have no symptoms at all. Severe outbreaks can be treated with antivirals.

  • Trichomonas

     This infection is caused by a parasite and can lead to vaginal itching, burning and smelly discharge. It's common in remote Indigenous communities but rare elsewhere in Australia. It's treated with antimicrobial tablets.

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