THE FREEDOM BOOK - Cambridge University Students' Union

CUSU LGBT The Freedom Book 2008 23Chlamydia: A sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteriumChlamydia trachomatis. It is a common, treatable infection, whichoften has no symptoms in men or women unless it leads to complications.It is now estimated that Chlamydia affects 1 in 12 women betweenthe ages of 16 and 24. Condoms are effective in preventingspread of the infection.Hepatitis B: Highly infectious disease of the liver. Vaccination recommendedfor sexually active gay men. Some people may carry Hep Bwithout showing symptoms. Other viruses affecting the liver such asHepatitis A (for which there is also a vaccine) and Hepatitis C (for whichthere is no vaccine) can be passed on sexually.Herpes: The same virus which gives people cold sores. This is passedon by direct contact with skin which has the herpes virus in it, eg justbefore, during and after a cold sore. To prevent, use a barrier method.Pubic Lice: Lice which live in the pubic region. These are passed onthrough close personal contact including sharing clothes. The onlymethod of protection is to not get too close.Scabies: An infection of tiny mites that are too small to see. It can beeasily spread by close contact and by sharing towels etc...Syphilis: This is a curable infection, if treated early enough, whichyou can have without showing symptoms. To reduce the risk use acondom, although this does not offer total protection as syphilis canbe transmitted through skin-to-skin contact.Warts/HPV: HPV is a virus that sometimes shows up as warts whichcan be around your genitals or anus. There is a link between HPV inwomen and cervical cancer. HPV is passed on by direct contact withwarts. To reduce the risks, use a barrier method.For more information visit the LBGT sexual health mini-site or checkout the CUSU Cambridge Guide – go to:http://www.cusu-lbgt.com/help_and_support/sexual_health.STIs