Ways of getting an STI | Zanzu

Skip to main content

Someone can get an STI through sex and through other ways of transmission.

Transmission through sex

Through vaginal sex, anal sex or oral sex with someone who has an STI, without using a condom.
By sharing sex toys without using a condom. For example: dildo, vibrator.
Through contact with blisters (herpes), sores (syphilis) or genital warts on someone else’s skin.

Transmission in other ways

A mother with an STI can pass the infection to the foetus, during pregnancy or delivery or when breast-feeding.
By sharing injection material.
By sharing your toothbrush (hepatitis B), towels and bed linen with someone else (pubic lice and scabies).

Talking to your partner and the doctor

If you have an STI you can infect someone else. Try to talk to your partner about it and encourage him/her to go to a doctor.

Talk to a health professional for advice.

Looking for help? Find a health professional.