Based on data collected from the GUM Clinic at the South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, “12.5% of total STI diagnoses occur in those aged 40+ years.”

When you have sexual contact there is a risk of you picking up a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) from your partner.

Often you can have an STI and have no symptoms. The best way to find out if you have an STI is to get tested.

According to data from the GUM Clinic at the South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital, “49% of Ireland’s Chlamydia cases are diagnosed in 15-24 year olds.”

STIs are increasing in Ireland, especially among young sexually active people. The data from the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) showed a 7% increase in the chlamydia and gonorrhoea rates. The rate of syphilis rose by more than 25% in 2018.

• You can get an STI the first time you have sex.

• You don’t need to have penetrative sex to get an STI.

The GUM / STI clinic provides free STI screening. It is under the governance of the HSE and located at South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital.

The Centre provides information, counselling and support in matters of sexual health, sexuality and wellbeing. If you ring the Monday-Friday helpline, a trained advisor will answer any questions you may have.

YHS provides sexual health services, STI testing and counselling for people under 23 years old.