Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Prevention | Testing
Treatment | Common STIs

**IMPORTANT: In Rhode Island, minors DO NOT need parental permission to be tested or treated for an STI**

Sexually transmitted infections or STIs (sometimes referred to as sexually transmitted diseases or STDs) pass from one person to another through vaginal, oral, and anal sex. They also can spread through intimate physical contact like heavy petting, though this is not very common.

STIs don’t always cause symptoms or may only cause mild symptoms so it’s possible to have an infection and not know it. That’s why getting an STI test is important if you are having sex. If you receive a positive STI diagnosis, know that all are treatable with medicine and some are curable entirely.

(Source: CDC STDs)

This simple handout What to Know About STIs tells you what you need to know, and it’s available in:

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STIs affect people of all ages and from all walks of life. In the U.S. alone there are about 20 million new cases each year, about half of which are in young people ages 15-24 years.

Prevention

The best way to avoid getting an STI is to not have sex. If you do decide to have sex, condoms that are USED CORRECTLY are the only widely available, proven method for reducing transmission of HIV and other STIs. Remember, it only takes a single sex act to contract an STI. The RI Department of Health will mail free condoms to any Rhode Island resident with a Rhode Island address.

There are currently vaccinations to prevent three sexually transmitted infections: Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B and HPV.

There are also medications you can take before and after sexual contact with an infected partner to prevent contracting HIV. For more information on receiving PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis), medication that dramatically reduces your chances of getting HIV through sex or injection drug use, please visit the Rhode Island PrEP Champions page of the RI Department of Health website.

Learn more about STI Prevention & Vaccinations along with details on the RI Department of Health’s important Vaccinate Before You Graduate program of free vaccinations for middle and high school students.

Testing

Getting tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV, and Hepatitis C is important for sexually active people and their partners. Have an honest and open conversation with your partner. The safe and responsible thing to do is both of you getting tested for STIs BEFORE having sexual contact with each other. If you’re not sure how to talk to your partner, here are some tips for starting the conversation.

There are many places to get tested for an STI in Rhode Island, with some of them able to provide testing at low or no-cost. Talk to your own doctor about testing or you can find other options for STI, HIV & Hepatitis C Testing here. Or check out the online testing service of the Rhode Island Department of Health, Testing 1-2-3.

In Rhode Island, minors (under 18) can be tested for STIs without parental permission. Read more about your healthcare Rights & Privacy in Rhode Island here.

Testing is generally covered by health insurance but can be paid for out of pocket, which may be hundreds of dollars. If you can’t afford to pay and don’t have health insurance, you may be eligible to get free or low-cost care at one of the clinical providers listed below. Contact them directly to determine your eligibility.



Tell Your Partner(s)!

It’s important for anyone who has tested positive to let their sexual partner(s) know so that it can be treated and not spread to others. Some people feel comfortable telling their partner(s) themselves. But sometimes, telling sexual partner(s) can be uncomfortable and awkward.

Rhode Island Department of Health health educators are here to help Rhode Islanders. They are friendly staff who are well trained in reaching out to people and letting them know they may have been exposed to an STI and that they should get an STI check-up. This helps your sex partner(s) get treatment and stay healthy. It also helps prevent you from getting an STI again.

The health educators NEVER tell anyone who you are or any information that you choose to share. In Rhode Island, you can call a RIDOH health educator at 401-222-2577. Ask for partner services.

Treatment

Some STIs can be cured with antibiotics, including syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis. Other STIs, such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), HIV and human papillomavirus (HPV) are not curable, but they can be treated.

To make sure your treatment works, don’t share your medicine with anyone, and avoid having sex again until you and your sex partner(s) have each completed treatment. If you are diagnosed with an STI, it’s important to tell your partners to get checked so that you don’t get re-infected. 

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Common STIs

Chlamydia

Gonorrhea

Hepatitis

Herpes

HIV/AIDS

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pubic Lice (Crabs)

Syphilis

Trichomoniasis

Are trans people at any increased risk for HIV or STIs?

The behaviors that put people at risk for HIV and STIs are the same for everyone, including trans people.

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Can you get HIV or an STI by just being naked with another person and rubbing bodies together?

You cannot get HIV by rubbing your bodies together. You also cannot get HIV from toilet seats, kissing, or holding hands. However, by rubbing your bodies together you can get some STIs like crabs, scabies, and herpes.

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Can I get HIV or an STI from oral sex?

People can get STIs by giving and receiving oral sex. Although there is a low rate of HIV transmission through oral sex, other STIs like gonorrhea and syphilis can be transmitted this way. If you perform a lot of oral sex (penis in your mouth), you may want to ask your doctor to do a throat...

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Can I get tested for HIV and STIs in Rhode Island without a parent or guardian’s permission?

Yes. Rhode Island has laws that allow adolescents to get tested for HIV and STIs without permission from a parent or guardian. Your parents will not be notified that you have been tested or the results of the test by your doctor. However, if you are getting tested and use health insurance to pay for it...

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If I have HIV or an STI, do I have to tell my partner(s)?

While there is no current law in Rhode Island that says that you have to tell your partner(s) if you have an STI or HIV, not telling your partner(s) that they have been exposed  could cause immediate or future health problems for them and any other sex partners they may have. If your partner is pregnant,...

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What should a person do if they recently tested positive for HIV?

When a person has a “reactive” result from a rapid (same day) HIV test, that person should get a blood test to confirm the result. If the confirmatory test is determined to be positive, that person should seek medical care from a doctor who specializes in the treatment of HIV.

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How often should people get tested for HIV and where can they get tested?

People should get tested at least annually if they share needles, have a history of sexually transmitted diseases, or have multiple sex partners, and are not using condoms. Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men should be tested at least annually. Individuals can be tested at their doctor’s office or at other locations...

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Is there a cure for HIV?

There is currently no cure for HIV, but there are ways to prevent the spread of the virus, including using condoms or clean needles. There are medications for people living with HIV to keep virus levels suppressed and the immune system healthy. People who may be at risk and are HIV negative can take PrEP, a...

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How is HIV spread?

HIV is spread through blood, semen, vaginal secretions and breast milk. It is usually spread during anal or vaginal sex and sharing needles. HIV is not spread by kissing, toilet seats, hand-holding, mosquitoes, or sweat.

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What is HIV, what is AIDS, and what is the difference?

HIV stands for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus and is the virus that *CAN* cause AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). There are many viruses that cause people to become sick (e.g. the “flu”, common cold, mono). HIV damages the body by destroying blood cells (called T cells) that help fight infections. This means your immune system no...

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Can I get an STI if I’ve already had it once?

Absolutely.  Without correct use of a condom, you can catch any number of STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis over and over again. If you contract HIV or herpes, you won't get it again because there is no cure. You will have that STI for life.

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Does spermicide provide additional protection against HIV?

You should not use additional or separate applications of spermicide for HIV prevention during vaginal or anal sex. Although spermicide has a chemical that kills HIV in test tubes (nonoxynol-N9, “N-9”), studies have shown that inserting N-9 into the vagina may cause irritation and actually increase the risk of HIV infection during vaginal sex. N-9 may...

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How do I know if I have an STI?

Many STIs don’t have symptoms people can see or feel. The only way to know for sure if you have HIV or an STI is to get tested regularly. Still, it is important to learn what is normal for your body or your partner’s body. Get things checked out when something changes, like a new or...

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How can I prevent HIV and STI transmission during vaginal sex?

HIV is spread during vaginal sex when HIV-infected semen, vaginal fluid, or menstrual blood comes in contact with the mucous membranes of the vagina or penis. Some STIs (e.g., gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis) are spread the same way as HIV. Other STIs (e.g., herpes, syphilis, chancroid) are transmitted through contact with infected skin or mucous membranes. In...

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How can I prevent HIV and STI transmission during anal sex?

Unprotected anal sex with a person who has HIV or another STI, or whose HIV/STI status you don’t know, is the highest-risk sexual activity, regardless of gender. External latex condoms, used with a water-based lubricant, reduce the chances of tissue and skin tearing and lowers the risk of transmitting disease during anal sex. However, even with...

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How can I prevent HIV and STI transmission during oral sex?

Although oral sex presents less of a risk than vaginal or anal sex for transmitting HIV and some other STIs, the risk still exists. Herpes is commonly passed between genitals and the mouth, and you can get a bacterial infection in your mouth or throat from an STI. The risk of HIV transmission through oral sex...

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Is it possible to get different sizes of condoms?

Condoms come in many sizes and kinds (even different flavors). No penis is too big for a condom – you just have to find the size and style that’s right for you and your partner!  

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What is a dental dam?

Dental dams are latex or polyurethane sheets used between the mouth and vagina or anus during oral sex.

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Do external and internal condoms provide the same protection against HIV?

Yes. Some studies show that internal condoms are as effective at protecting against HIV as external condoms. Internal condoms are made of nitrile, which is an effective barrier to HIV. Internal and external condoms should not be used at the same time. Internal condoms and external condoms are available at some drug stores, community health centers,...

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Do birth control methods other than condoms reduce the risks of STIs?

No. Only condoms reduce the risk of both pregnancy and STIs. Birth control pills, patches, injections (Depo-Provera), intrauterine devices (IUDs), diaphragms, and any birth control methods other than condoms do not provide protection against STIs and HIV. You should use an external or internal condom in addition to any other method you use to prevent pregnancy.

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What should I do if my partner or I am allergic to latex?

If you’re allergic to latex, you can use condoms made out of polyurethane. These are available in many of the same places that you find latex condoms, such as drug stores, grocery stores, and health clinics. People who are allergic to latex can also use condoms made of animal tissue for birth control, but these don’t...

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The condom broke. What should I do?

If the condom breaks – or leaks or spills – use emergency contraception as soon as you can and up to five days after it happens. You may also want to get tested for STIs.

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Where can I find free condoms?

Many local organizations, and some health clinics may offer free condoms. Visit the Services in Rhode Island page to find organizations near you. Rhode Islanders can order condoms for free from the RI Department of Health. Each shipment contains approximately 10-15 condoms, depending on your preferences. The only requirement for requesting free condoms is that you...

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PrEP for HIV Prevention

Rhode Island PrEP Champions Network   What is PrEP and what are PrEP Champions? PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is medication (pills or shots) that dramatically reduce your chances of getting HIV through sex or injection drug use. It is important to talk to a healthcare professional to determine if PrEP is right for you. PrEP Champions are...

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STI Prevention & Vaccinations

STI Prevention | Vaccinations for STIs | HIV Prevention Medications | Vaccinate Before You Graduate The surest way to protect yourself against STIs is to not have sex. That means not having any vaginal, anal, or oral sex (“abstinence”). There are many things to consider before having sex. It’s okay to say “no” if you don’t...

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STI, HIV & Hepatitis C Testing

Below is a list of healthcare providers across Rhode Island where you can get tested for sexually transmitted infections (including HIV and hepatitis C), sometimes for free or low-cost if you are eligible. You can also get a lab order to be tested by your own doctor or healthcare provider (if you have one). In Rhode Island,...

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Free Condoms

Below is a list of places across Rhode Island where you can get free condoms, along with a way to get free condoms mailed to you, as long as you are a Rhode Island resident. Some of these facilities offer free condoms only to their own clients/members/students/patients, and some offer free condoms to any Rhode Islander....

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Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis ("Trich") is a very common and treatable STI caused by infection with Trichomonas vaginalis (a protozoan parasite). Most people who have trichomoniasis don’t have symptoms, so they can spread the infection without knowing it. Risks spreads through vaginal sex without a condom with a partner who has the infection Symptoms Most people who have trichomoniasis...

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Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause serious health problems without treatment. Infection develops in stages (primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary). Each stage can have different signs and symptoms. Risks spreads through sex (vaginal, oral, or anal) without a condom with a partner who has the infection pregnant woman with syphiis can give...

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Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious complication of some STIs. It is a general name for infections of the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. PID is common. Women can get PID if they have an STI (like untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea). It can cause infertility in women. Risks you are at risk if you are...

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Pubic Lice (Crabs)

Pubic lice, also called crab lice or “crabs,” are parasitic insects found primarily attached to hair in the pubic or genital area of humans, but they are occasionally found on coarse hair elsewhere on the body, such as hair on the legs, armpits, mustache, beard, eyebrows, or eyelashes. Pubic lice are different from the lice you...

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HPV

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. There are many different types of HPV, including types that can cause genital warts and cancers. There is a vaccination for HPV and all pre-teens ages 11 or 12 years should get vaccinated. Rhode Island law requires students entering 7th grade...

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HIV / AIDS

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. If HIV is not treated, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). There is currently no effective cure. Once people get HIV, they have it for life. But with proper medical care, HIV can be controlled. People with HIV who get effective...

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Herpes

Genital herpes is a common STI caused by two types of viruses – herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Most people with genital herpes do not know they have it because they have no symptoms or very mild symptoms. There is currently no cure for herpes, just medication to...

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Hepatitis

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, its ability to process nutrients, filter blood, and fight infections is decreased. The most common types of viral Hepatitis are Hepatitis A, B, and C - all cause similar symptoms, but they are spread in different ways and can affect the liver...

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Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea can cause infection in the genitals, rectum, and throat. It is very common, especially among young people ages 15-24 years. Most women (and some men) who have gonorrhea don’t have symptoms, or symptoms are mild and can be mistaken for a bladder or vaginal infection. Risks spreads through sex (vaginal, oral, or anal) without a...

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Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common, but curable, STI that can cause infection among both men and women. It can cause permanent damage to a woman’s reproductive system. Most people who have chlamydia don’t have symptoms, so they can spread the infection without knowing it. Risks spreads through sex (vaginal, oral, or anal) without a condom with a...

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Rights & Privacy

Your right to: Privacy/Confidentiality | Affordable Care Healthcare Services | Safe Schools As a young person in Rhode Island, you have the right to lead a healthy life by having full access to confidential and affordable health care. Your legal right to sexual and reproductive health care includes accessing birth control, condoms, emergency contraception, abortion, pregnancy...

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