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April is STI Awareness Month 

When it comes to sexual health, you never have to feel alone. Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts is here to make sure everyone has access to information and the health care they need to have happy, healthy sex lives.

STIs

STIs are infections that are spread from one person to another, usually during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. They’re really common, and lots of people who have them don’t have any symptoms. Without treatment, STIs can lead to serious health problems. But the good news is that getting tested is no big deal, and most STIs are easy to treat.

STI tests are quick and easy.
Learn more about STI testing.

Chlamydia 

A very common STI caused by a bacterial infection. Often doesn’t have symptoms, but easy to treat once it’s diagnosed.

Genital Warts

Growths on the genital area and around the anus. Caused by certain types of HPV.

Gonorrhea 

A common STI caused by a bacterial infection. Often doesn’t have symptoms, but easy to treat once it’s diagnosed.

Hepatitis B

A virus that can cause liver disease, which is spread through sex or sharing personal hygiene items like razors or toothbrushes.

Herpes 

A common STI that infects your mouth and/or genitals. Causes blistery sores. There’s no cure, but symptoms are treatable.  

HIV & AIDS

HIV is an infection that breaks down your immune system and can lead to AIDS. There’s no cure, but treatment can help you stay healthy.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

A super common STI. HPV is usually harmless and goes away by itself, but some types can lead to cancer.

Molluscum Contagiosum 

An infection that causes small bumps on your skin. It goes away by itself and usually isn’t dangerous.

Pubic Lice 

AKA “crabs.” Small parasites that attach to the skin and hair near your genitals. Easy to get rid of with treatment you can get at the drugstore.

Scabies

Scabies are tiny parasites that cause itching. Passed through skin-to-skin contact, usually during sex. Can be cured.

Syphilis 

Syphilis is a common bacterial infection. It’s easily cured with medicine, but it can be dangerous if you don’t treat it.

Trichomoniasis (Trich)

“Trich” is a major cause of vaginitis. It’s very common and easily treated.

Protect Yourself and Your Partner(s), Too.

Learn how to talk about STIs with partners to have safer sex.

Make an Appointment for STI Testing

Getting tested for STIs is important: It’s the first step to feeling better if you’re having symptoms. And many STIs don’t have symptoms, so getting tested regularly will give you peace of mind. Enter your zip code to find a Planned Parenthood health center near you.

Get the Facts About STI Testing

When it comes to STIs, there’s no single test you can get to check for all of them. But that doesn’t mean getting tested is hard. Read more about STI testing so you’ll know what to expect.

Ask us anything. Seriously. 

Between our trained sexual health educators or chat bot, we can answer your questions about your sexual health whenever you have them. And they are free and confidential.

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Call our Sexual Health Counseling & Referral Hotline!

If you have any questions about your sexual and reproductive health, call our free and confidential Counseling & Referral Hotline at 800-258-4448, option 4 or 617-616-1616! The Hotline is open Monday, Wednesday, Friday, from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 

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Safer Sex is Better Sex 

There’s nothing like enjoying sex without worrying about STIs or pregnancy. Using condoms, talking openly with your partner, and getting tested regularly is how to make it happen. Here’s how to get started.

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