STIs: Regular Screening, Your Best Protection

Alarming figures

Estimates suggest that more than one million new sexually transmitted infections (STIs) occur every day worldwide. The four most common curable STIs are chlamydia (129 million cases/year), gonorrhea (82 million), syphilis (7.1 million), and trichomoniasis (156 million).

Why screening is crucial

Most STIs are asymptomatic, especially in women. Without treatment, they can lead to serious complications: infertility, ectopic pregnancy, transmission to the newborn, increased risk of cervical cancer (HPV). Screening allows early treatment and reduces transmission.

When to get screened

With each change of partner, in case of unprotected intercourse, annually if you have multiple partners, and systematically at the beginning of pregnancy. HIV testing is recommended at least once in a lifetime for anyone aged 15 to 70.

Prevention

Condoms (male or female) remain the most effective method. HPV vaccination is recommended for girls and boys from 11 years old. PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) effectively protects against HIV.