STI Screening, Prevention and Treatment

MSH (My Sexual Health) team members are healthcare professionals specialising in STI (sexually transmitted infection) screening, prevention, and treatment. They provide valuable support and guidance to individuals seeking assistance with their sexual health, ensuring comprehensive care and promoting awareness and prevention of STIs.

STI Screening:

MSH team members offer STI screening services, which involve testing for various infections, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, HIV, and others. They can explain the different screening methods available, such as urine tests, blood tests, or swabs, and discuss the recommended screening frequency based on an individual's sexual activity and risk factors. They ensure patients understand the importance of regular STI screenings for early detection and prompt treatment.

Prevention Education:

MSH team members provide education on STI prevention, including safe sex practices, such as consistent and correct condom use, reducing the number of sexual partners, and communication with partners about STI status. They also discuss the importance of regular STI screenings, vaccinations (such as the HPV vaccine), and the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention. They address any concerns or misconceptions related to STI prevention methods.

STI Treatment:

In the event of a positive STI diagnosis, MSH team members can provide information and guidance on appropriate treatment options. They discuss the recommended medications, their potential side effects, and the importance of completing the full course of treatment. They also emphasise the need to inform sexual partners and provide guidance on partner notification and testing.

Confidentiality and Non-judgmental Care:

MSH team members prioritise patient confidentiality and create a safe and non-judgmental environment for discussions about STIs. They understand the sensitive nature of STI concerns and aim to provide reassurance and support throughout the screening and treatment process. They encourage open communication and ensure patients feel comfortable discussing their sexual health concerns without fear of stigma or discrimination.

Partner Referrals and Support:

MSH team members can assist patients in notifying their sexual partners about the need for STI testing and treatment. They provide guidance on effective communication strategies and can offer partner referral services, enabling partners to access the necessary healthcare and support. They emphasise the importance of mutual testing and treatment to prevent reinfection.

Collaboration with Specialists:

MSH team members collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as infectious disease specialists or sexual health clinics, to ensure comprehensive care for patients with complex STI cases. They can provide referrals to specialists when necessary, ensuring that patients receive specialised expertise and treatment.

Seeking support from MSH team members allows individuals to access expert guidance, STI screening, prevention education, and treatment options. The services provided by these professionals contribute to the early detection, prevention, and management of STIs, promoting sexual health and well-being.