What are STDs?
STIs – also known as sexually transmitted diseases – are infections that are transmitted through sexual contact. These include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HIV or HPV. Many of the diseases can be treated effectively, but only if they are detected in time.
One of the challenges with STIs is that many infected people do not notice any symptoms. This means that the disease can develop without being detected - and at the same time you risk infecting your partner. Therefore, prevention and regular check-ups are crucial to ensure both your own and others' health.
Use a condom – every time
The best and simplest protection against STDs is the condom. It forms a physical barrier that prevents contact with the bodily fluids and mucous membranes where bacteria and viruses are most often found. Condoms protect against most common STDs - both during vaginal, anal and oral sex.
Unfortunately, many people skip the condom when desire takes over. It's a risk not worth taking - especially when a disease in the worst case can lead to infertility or cancer. Get used to always carrying condoms with you, and use them - even if it's "just" a one-time experience.
There are also female condoms and dental dams, which provide extra protection during oral sex. Talk openly with your partner about it – it's about taking care of each other.
Get regular check-ups
Even if you feel healthy, you may still be infected. This is especially true for diseases like chlamydia and gonorrhea, which often do not cause symptoms – especially in women. Regular testing is therefore important if you are sexually active.
When should you get tested?
- If you have had unprotected sex
- If you have multiple partners
- If you change partners
- If you experience symptoms such as discharge, itching, or pain
- As part of a healthy sex life - for example, once a year
At Doctors in Denmark, you can get tested quickly and discreetly. Many tests can be done with urine or blood samples, and we ensure quick follow-up if something requires treatment.
Talk openly with your partner
Good communication is an important part of a healthy sex life. It can be difficult to broach the subject, but it is both mature and responsible to talk openly about STIs, testing and protection.
Start by saying that you think it is important to take care of each other - not because you suspect something, but because it is about health and safety. For example, agree that you both get tested before you ditch the condom. This gives trust and respect in the relationship - whether it is new or permanent.
Many are surprised by how easy it is once they start talking about it.
Avoid sex if you have symptoms
If you experience symptoms such as itching, burning, sores, discharge, pain during intercourse or urination, you should refrain from sex until you have been examined. It may be a sign of a sexually transmitted disease, and the faster you react, the easier it is to get treatment.
Many hope the symptoms will go away on their own – but they rarely do. In the meantime, you risk infecting your partner. At Doctors in Denmark, you can get a quick assessment and, if necessary, get tested and treated without waiting for weeks.
Be aware of alcohol and sex
Alcohol can be a part of many sexual encounters – but it also clouds judgment. Many forget to use condoms when they are drunk, or choose partners they would otherwise not feel safe with.
If you know you're going out, bring condoms. Also, consider your boundaries in advance - it makes it easier to say yes and no when you are in the situation. It's not about saying no to desire or spontaneity, but about combining it with responsibility.
Vaccination against HPV
HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Most people get infected at some point in their lives, but few notice it. However, some HPV types can lead to genital warts, cell changes, and certain types of cancer – especially cervical cancer in women and cancer in the rectum and pharynx in both men and women.
The HPV vaccine is recommended for both boys and girls in Denmark – but adults can also be vaccinated. The earlier, the better – but it is never too late to protect yourself.
At Doctors in Denmark, we offer HPV vaccination, and we are happy to advise you if you are unsure whether it is right for you.
Come to the doctor with confidence
At Doctors in Denmark, we meet you with respect and without prejudice. We know that STDs can feel embarrassing, but you can feel completely safe. We are here to help you – and we take the time to listen.
You can get an appointment quickly – often the same day – and you choose whether it should be in person or via video. We are also open in the evening and on weekends, so you don't have to take time off from work.
Health is about peace of mind - and you deserve both.