STIs spread through sexual contact involving the genitals, mouth or anus. Some infections can also be spread through other means such as:
- skin-to-skin contact (e.g., kissing, non-penetrating sex or body rubbing)
- mixing infected body fluids (such as blood, semen or vaginal secretions)
- sharing needles, other drug paraphernalia and through needle stick injuries
- sharing razors, nail clippers, or unclean tattoo equipment
- from a pregnant woman to her unborn baby, as the baby is being born during a vaginal birth
- through breastmilk to a baby
Use a condom or dental dam every time you have sex (anal, oral, vaginal, hand) to reduce the risk of STIs and HIV.