There has been a substantial increase in the spread of STD’s (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) over the past 10 years in the UK, and with a number of STD’s having little or no symptoms, many people are unaware that they are infected.

It is important that you get tested for STD’s if you have had various sexual partners, especially if you have had more than one partner in a short space of time and if you have unprotected sex. Although some STD’s do not have symptoms or have little evidence, there are serious medical risks if an infection is not treated.

Potential risks include, infertility and an increased risk of cancer in both men and women, a potential to transmit the infection to a child during childbirth and an increased risk of a miscarriage or premature birth.

If you are infected with an STD, there is also an increased risk of getting another infection and if Chlamydia or Gonorrhoea are not treated, there is also a risk of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women and could cause swollen testicles, arthritis and infertility in men.

If you feel that there may be a chance that you have an STD, you should contact your nearest STD testing clinic straight away, they will advise you on what to do next.