What are sexually transmitted diseases?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are ailments spread through direct sexual contact, including penile-vaginal, penile-anal and oral-genital contact.

There are many different STDs. Major STDs include:

• Syphilis
• Gonorrhoea
• Non-gonococcal urethritis
• Chlamydia
• Genital wart
• Herpes genitalis
• HIV/AIDS

What causes it?

Bacteria, viruses or parasites can cause STDs.

How can I prevent it?

You can prevent most STDs if you practise safer sex:

• Have sex with only one partner who is not infected and who is having sex only with you.
• Use condom properly.

How do I find out if I have sexually transmitted diseases?

You need to be examined by a doctor. Sexually transmitted diseases can be diagnosed by a swab collected from the genital areas or related sites, blood tests or by urine sample.

The person(s) you have had sex with must also be tested for the disease.

Some STDs can be cured with medication, e.g. antibiotics. It is important to take all the prescribed tablets; otherwise infection may not be properly cured. Sexual partners who could have been infected should be treated at the same time. If not, you may be infected again.

For the STDs that are caused by viruses, there are treatments or measures which can greatly decrease discomfort or help in reducing the number of recurrences.

During treatment, you should practise safer sex or refrain from sexual contact in order to stop spreading the disease, and comply with the medication regime if indicated.

To ensure the infection has been cured or controlled, you have to return to your doctor or clinic for a follow-up.

Department of Health (Social Hygiene Service)
Hotline : 2150 7370

Hotlines (recorded message or counseling)
Hong Kong Family Planning Association Service Hotline:
phone:2572 2222

Red Ribbon Centre Phone: 3143 7200