Sexual Health & STIs
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General Symptoms - The number one symptom is NO symptom
- Irritation: itches, pain, rash, tenderness around the vagina, penis, rectum
- Unusual, smelly, colored discharge from the vagina or penis
- Blisters, sores, chancres, lumps, warts, polyps around the genitals
- Some STI’s have no initial symptoms, so all the more important to talk to your health care provider about your possible exposure
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Diagnoses Most commonly used test for STIs is a simple urine test, by a physical examination, or in some cases a blood test is done. A PAP smear tests for the presence of cancer-causing cells and is not designed to diagnose STIs. All are available at the Student Health, Wellness & Counseling Center by appointment. -
Safer Sex - Use condoms and water based lubricant not only to prevent pregnancy, but also to prevent transmission of most infections. The pill does not provide any protection against STIs.
- Limit the number of sexual partners you have and try to get to know your partners' past sexual and drug use history. Be open about your concerns.
- High risk drinking is considered a risk factor for contracting STIs
- Get tested before have sex with a new partner(s)
- If you are diagnosed with an infection, tell your partner(s). They may also need treatment.
- Though there are ways to reduce your risk and practice safer sex, abstinence is the only truly safe method
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Testing & Treatment Linfield Student Health Wellness & Counseling 503-883-2535
Yamhill County Health Department 503-883-7525
Your family doctor or other local health clinics
Cascade AIDS Project - 503-223-5907 -
Hotlines & Websites National STD Hotline (M-F 8am-11pm) 1-800-227-8922
AIDS Information Hotline (24hr) 1-800-342-AIDS
Oregon AIDS Hotline 1-800-777-AIDS
Herpes Hotline 1-919-361-8488
Reproductive Rights
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Resources