Sexual Health

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Some sexual health issues, such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), intimate partner violence, and sexual pleasure, affect all people. However for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and trans people (LGBT) these issues may be compounded by homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia. As a result, some sexual health issues may require distinct care within LGBT populations.

WHAT DOES SEXUAL HEALTH MEAN?

The World Health Organization defines sexual health as a “state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being related to sexuality; not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity.” They add that sexual health includes “a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence.

WHY TALK ABOUT LGBT SEXUAL HEALTH?

Sexual health can be a challenging issue to discuss in the clinical context. Studies have reported that some health care providers may face barriers to discussing sexual health with their LGBT patients, including lack of knowledge of same-sex sexual practices.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is the most commonly reported bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) in Canada. When left untreated, it can lead to painful health problems and infertility. Chlamydia disproportionately affects sexually active youth and young adults, especially women ages 15-24 in Canada.

• - Symtoms
• - Health Risks
• - Minimizing your risk

Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause painful sores on the genital area. There is no vaccine or cure, but antiviral medication can help ease the pain associated with the sores and control recurrent episodes.

• - Symtoms
• - Health Risks
• - Minimizing your risk

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause infertility. This bacterial infection is on the rise in Canada and becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics. Gonorrhea (commonly known as "the clap") is transmitted through oral, genital, or anal sex with an infected person.

• - Symtoms
• - Health Risks
• - Minimizing your risk

HIV / AIDS

HIV (or Human Immunodeficiency Virus) weakens your immune system, your body’s built-in defence against disease and illness. Anyone can be infected with HIV. You can have HIV without knowing it. You may not look or feel sick for years, but you can still pass the virus on to other people. 

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Canada and worldwide. The various types of HPV can lead to different health outcomes.

• - Symtoms
• - Health Risks
• - Minimizing your risk

Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV)

Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is on the rise in Canada. If left untreated, LGV can lead to serious health problems.

LGV is caused by variations of the bacteria that cause chlamydia, a common STI. However, the infections caused by LGV are much more invasive, cause different symptoms, and have different results if left untreated.

• - Symtoms
• - Health risks
• - Minimizing your risk

Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection that is on the rise in Canada. Syphilis is transmitted through oral, genital, or anal sex with an infected person. A pregnant woman with syphilis can pass it on to her unborn child, sometimes causing birth defects or death.

• - Symtoms
• - Health risks
• - Minimizing the risk

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