Sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs) are infections (bacteria, parasites, or viruses) that pass to someone through sexual contact or specific activities that involve blood.
Some examples of STBBIs are chlamydia, syphilis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV), and gonorrhea.
Using the term STBBIs instead of the more common “STIs” or “STDs” allows us to recognize that these infections aren’t always transmitted through sexual activity.
Remember: There is no shame in getting an STBBI or in wanting to get tested to ensure you don’t have one. Keep in mind that:
- STBBIs don’t make you dirty
- You are the same person you were before any diagnosis
- It isn’t your fault
Often, STBBIs show no signs or symptoms, and many people don’t know they have one.
The only way to know is to get tested.
If you’re looking for testing and/or treatment, you can contact one of the following:
- Algonquin College Health Services (Ottawa campus): 613-727-4723 ext. 7222
- Ottawa Public Health Sexual Health Clinic: 613-234-4641
- GetaKit (at-home testing): GetaKit.ca
- By contacting your healthcare provider, community health clinic, or public health nurse
Most STBBIs can be cleared completely with proper treatment. The sooner you get treatment, the better. That’s why early testing is so important!
If you’re looking for testing and/or treatment, you can contact one of the following:
- Algonquin College Health Services (Ottawa campus): 613-727-4723 ext. 7222
- Ottawa Public Health Sexual Health Clinic: 613-234-4641
- GetaKit (at-home testing): GetaKit.ca
- By contacting your healthcare provider, community health clinic, or public health nurse
Reduce your risk of getting an STBBI or passing one along by using safer sex methods and practicing harm reduction during drug use.
Specific ways to reduce your risk of STBBIs:
- Use barriers such as condoms and dental dams during oral, vaginal, and anal sex
- Engage in intimacy that doesn’t pose a high risk for STBBIs, e.g. giving or receiving a massage, mutual masturbation, or sharing a sexual fantasy
- Avoid sharing needles, pipes, straws/bills, tattoo or piercing equipment, and sex toys.
Top tips for preventing STBBIs:
- Get tested regularly: This means getting tested as part of your regular health check-ups and before and after new sexual partners
- Have honest conversations: Talk to your sexual partner(s) about their STBBI status. This can feel scary, but it’s necessary to keep yourself as safe and healthy as possible!