Having an active sex life that is both satisfying and healthy involves matters of choice and responsibility. Sexual health is all about safety, pleasure and respect. If you are sexually active, you must consider getting screened for sexually transmitted infections or diseases periodically and protect yourself and your partner. Anyone who has unprotected sex is at risk and the more people you have unprotected sex with, the greater the chances of picking up an infection.
Although HIV is the most popular known cause of sexually transmitted diseases, others like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Human Papilloma Virus are currently more prevalent in Ontario and Toronto.
Ontario Public Health has reported a 7.2% rise in sexually transmitted infections since last year. Women and youth (between the ages of 15-24) are the most susceptible population. Detecting and treating these infections early can prevent further health complications.
Who should get tested? If you have multiple sexual partners or a partner who has been diagnosed with an STD or exhibits symptoms of having an STD, if you are in a new relationship or have been involved in high risk activities. Most of these cases are underdiagnosed and you might not have any symptoms associated with the infection.
Where to get tested: There are many sexual health clinics in Toronto that offer a range of services. Some even offer free check-ups. The procedure involves a physical examination and is followed by laboratory tests that might require blood, swabs or urine samples. Most sexual health clinics offer anonymous testing. You can even get tests done through your family doctor, where confidentiality is guaranteed but not anonymity. If you are in university you can visit the student health centre on campus. There is no single test for diagnosing all types of sexually transmitted infections. It could be intimidating and uncomfortable to share details about your sexual life with your doctor, but it is very important to be honest. Remember that what you reveal could impact the type of tests and advice you are given.
This portal has a list of sexual health clinics in Toronto and the GTA, that you can choose from based on your location. They offer free counselling on sexual health, birth-control, relationship and sexuality. No reference is required and most of them do not ask for your OHIP card either but it is better to take appointments for anonymous testing.
They cater to both men and women and provide free check-up, pap test and anonymous testing. They also counsel couples on sexual health and birth-control. For more information, call 416-922-0566.
They offer a range of services with respect to testing, diagnosing and treating sexually transmitted diseases regardless of your sexual orientation and gender. It is better to take an appointment even though some clinics have drop-ins on certain weekdays.
They also help you find a sexual health clinic based on your location in Toronto.
Sexually transmitted infections are serious, painful and can cause a negative impact on your sexuality. If not treated, they can lead to severe health issues like pelvic inflammatory disease in women, testicular infections in case of men and infertility. Most of these infections can be treated with medications.
Health Canada recommends the use of two vaccines (Gardasil and Cervarix) to protect against HPV (Human Papillomavirus). The vaccine can be given to anyone who is between 9-26 years.
Practice safe sex by using condoms or dental dams during all types of sex as they reduce the risk of spreading infections. If you are not comfortable talking to your partner about your condition, seek help from a health care provider or a counsellor at any of the clinics above. Stopping the epidemic of sexually transmitted infections and diseases is an individual and collective effort and getting screened is a positive step towards protection. Better safe than sorry.
