For a list of sexually transmitted and blood borne infections and how to report cases to Huron Perth Public Health, visit Diseases Reportable to Public Health.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
For healthcare providers
Reporting sexually transmitted and blood borne infections
To order STI medication, please fax your completed order form to 519-271-5368.
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Order deadlines vary by HPPH location. For information on when to submit orders, please refer to the instructions at the top of the STI medication order form.
About sexually transmitted infections and testing
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections spread from person to person during sex (vaginal, oral, or anal). Anyone who has had unprotected sex can get an STI.
Since many STIs don’t show any obvious signs or symptoms, at least at first, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself and your partner and to get tested regularly.
Most STIs are easily treated. If left untreated, some STIs may cause serious illness or even permanent damage, such as infertility. Early detection can help reduce or avoid health complications. It can also help minimize the spread of STIs to others.
Protect yourself from STIs
Follow these tips to reduce your risk of getting an STI:
- Talk about STIs and safe sex with every partner so you can protect each other.
- Check that you are up-to-date with vaccinations against hepatitis and human papillomavirus (HPV).
- Use condoms and/or dental dams
STI symptoms
- sores, bumps, rashes and/or blisters near the genitals
- itching around or near the genitals
- unusual smell or discharge from the genitals
- pain in the lower abdomen
- pain or bleeding during or after sex
- bleeding between periods
Get tested for STIs
Huron Perth Public Health (HPPH) offers STI testing at our sexual health clinics. You can also be tested for STIs through your primary care provider.
How often should I get tested?
We recommend that you get tested when:
- you have had sex without a condom or other barrier protection
- you know your current or past partner(s) has or had an STI
- you or your partner(s) have been sexually active with other people
- you or your partner(s) have shared needles for drugs, tattooing or piercing
- you or your partner(s) have any STI symptoms
For general information about STI testing and treatment, visit Testing & Treatment | Sexual Health Ontario.
To talk about STI symptoms and/or treatment options with an HPPH public health nurse, or to make an appointment for testing, contact the Sexual Health Clinic.
Contact Us
Huron Perth Public Health
Huron Office
77722B London Road, RR #5, Clinton, ON
N0M 1L0
Perth Office
653 West Gore St., Stratford ON N5A 1L4
Toll-free 1-888-221-2133
askhpph@hpph.ca