Chlamydia is the most common STI and as the infection is largely symptom-less, most people infected with it do not know they have it. Some do show some symptoms such as discharge from the penis or vagina and a burning sensation when urinating.

Diagnosis is made by taking a sample of discharge or urine. Treatment is with antibiotics.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are very common. They can be painful and uncomfortable, but they usually go within a few days or can be easily treated with a course of antibiotics. UTIs are more common in women than in men. Children can also get UTIs, although this is less common. The symptoms of UTIs include pain or a burning sensation when urinating, a need to urinate often and pain in the lower abdomen (tummy).

A UTI develops when part of the urinary tract becomes infected, usually by bacteria. Bacteria can enter the urinary tract through the bloodstream. Emptying your bladder, wiping from front to back after going to toilet, avoiding constipation and drinking cranberry juice are all thought to reduce your risk of developing a urinary tract infection. In some cases long-term use of antibiotics help prevent the infection returning.

Complications of UTI aren’t common, but can be serious and lead to kidney failure or blood poisoning. These complications usually affect people with a pre-existing health problem, such as diabetes or a weakened immune system.

Gonorrhoea can be symptom-less but most symptoms usually include a discharge from the penis or vagina, a need to pass urine frequently and a burning sensation or pain when passing urine.

As with all STIs it is important to seek treatment, however, it is especially important if you think you may have Gonorrhoea as it can cause infertility.

Thrush is a very common infection particularly in women. It is caused by fungal yeast. There are many different types of thrush and it most frequently affects the genitals of women and men, when the natural balance of friendly bacteria is upset.

As one of the main symptoms of thrush is severe itching, external creams help to soothe and relieve the area, while oral treatments get to work on the infection itself. Other symptoms of a thrush infection include swelling and discharge like cottage cheese. Contrary to what many people believe, thrush is not an STI, but it can be passed on through sex.

On the whole, thrush is a mild condition which can be cleared up in a matter of days, but it can keep returning.