Sexual Health

Let’s talk about it—sexual health is a big deal, and getting the right care shouldn’t be complicated or embarrassing. Whether it’s a routine check-up or dealing with something more concerning, taking charge of your sexual health is a powerful act of self-care.

At Hazel, we know that talking about sexual health can feel uncomfortable, but it doesn’t have to be. Our virtual sexual health clinic offers a safe, judgement-free space where you can get the care you need—no stigma, no awkward waiting rooms. From sexually transmitted infection (STI) screening referrals to contraception advice and everything in between, we’re here to help you take control of your sexual wellbeing with confidence and ease.

The STI reality check Australia (really) needs

STIs aren't exactly the kind of topic we casually bring up at dinner—but maybe they should be.

In Australia, 1 in 6 people will get an STI in their lifetime. There’s no shame in getting one — it can happen to the best of us, even when taking precautions. The real problem is the shame and awkwardness surrounding sexual health causes many of us to avoid regular check-ups, leaving infections undetected and spreading.

This head-in-the-sand approach to sexual health in Australia is starting to take its toll. Between 2015 and 2019, chlamydia cases jumped by 17%, gonorrhoea almost doubled with a 79% spike, and infectious syphilis skyrocketed by 95%—and that’s just the cases that were actually diagnosed and reported. Wondering what’s flying under the radar? Turns out, it might be a lot.

According to a UNSW sexual health survey, only 58% of Australians have ever been tested for STIs or HIV, and just 36% got tested in the past year. That means a huge chunk of the population isn’t getting regular check-ups, leaving a lot of infections undetected—and potentially spreading.

The bottom line? It's time to drop the shame and start taking our sexual health seriously. Regular testing is the only way to know for sure. Don’t let embarrassment keep you from protecting yourself—and everyone else.

STD vs STIs: What's the difference?

Did you know, all sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) start as STIs, but not all STIs become diseases? STI stands for sexually transmitted infection, while STD stands for sexually transmitted disease. While STD used to be a commonly used catch-all term, it’s not accurate.

The key difference? You can have an STI and not even know it—no symptoms, no problem. But once it turns into a disease (like chlamydia turning into pelvic inflammatory disease), that's when symptoms and complications start to show up.

Common STIs: What you need to know

Sexually transmitted infections come in all shapes and sizes—some are easily treated, while others stick around for life. Here’s a rundown of the most common culprits:

• Chlamydia
  Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world.
  This sneaky bacterial infection can affect both men and women. And while you might experience painful urination, unusual discharge, or lower abdominal pain, some people have no symptoms (but will still have, and can pass on, the infection).
  The good news? Chlamydia can be easily treated with antibiotics. But if you leave it untreated, you could be setting yourself up for complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or infertility down the track.
  
• Gonorrhoea
  Gonorrhoea is another bacterial STI that can affect the genital tract, rectum, and throat. Symptoms may include painful urination, unusual discharge, and pelvic pain. It’s the second most common STI in the world, and highly infectious — in fact, one single act of vaginal sex with an infected man means you’ve got a 50% chance of contracting gonorrhoea.
  Fortunately, it’s treatable with antibiotics when caught early. But if you let it go unchecked, it can cause bigger problems, like pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, or even a dangerous ectopic pregnancy.
  
• Syphilis
  While syphilis may seem like something out of Victorian-era London, it has become an epidemic in Australia in recent years. The rates of syphilis have significantly increased over the past decade, with case notifications of infectious syphilis more than doubling from 2015 to 2022. One of the groups most at risk? Women of reproductive age.
  Syphilis is a serious bacterial infection that progresses in stages. It starts with painless sores at the site of infection, then may lead to rashes, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and, in advanced stages, serious damage to organs and the nervous system.
  Early-stage syphilis is treatable with antibiotics, but if left untreated, it can lead to some serious health problems like heart damage, neurological issues, and infertility. Need more motivation to get tested after a risky encounter? Try a quick syphilis Google image search. Spoiler alert: it’s not pretty.
  
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
  Up to 90% of us will get at least one type of genital HPV in our lifetime—yep, it’s that common. Most of the time, it’s no big deal, and your body clears it on its own.HPV is a viral infection with over 100 types, but not all of them are scary. Low-risk strains usually cause no symptoms or harmless genital warts, while high-risk ones can lead to cancers of the cervix, throat, and anus—no symptoms, just potential trouble down the line.
  There’s no cure for HPV, but vaccines can protect you from the risky strains, and regular screenings (like Pap smears) help catch anything nasty early. So, while HPV might seem minor for some, don’t let the high-risk ones sneak by unnoticed. Stay protected and get checked.
  

• Herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2)
  Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), with HSV-1 usually responsible for cold sores and HSV-2 causing genital herpes. You might notice painful sores or blisters around the mouth or genital area, but some people have no symptoms at all.
  While there’s no cure, antiviral medications can help manage outbreaks. And remember: the virus can still be passed on even if there are no visible sores.
  Wondering if you can get genital herpes from an oral cold sore? You can. While HSV-1 typically sticks to the mouth area, showing up as cold sores, and HSV-2 likes to hang around the genitals, both viruses can cause sores anywhere they please — they just have their favourite spots. So if someone has a cold sore, it’s best not to invite them to visit below the waist. 
  
• Trichomoniasis
  Trichomoniasis is a parasitic infection caused by the protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis. Women with trichomoniasis might deal with all sorts of uncomfortable symptoms like vaginal discharge, painful sex, urinary tract infection symptoms, vaginal itching, or pelvic pain – but again, not everyone gets symptoms.
  Trichomoniasis is also one of the top culprits behind vaginitis (painful vaginal inflammation). But here’s the kicker: trichomoniasis is often underdiagnosed, and people tend to try and self-treat instead of getting checked out.
  Shockingly — research also suggests doctors don’t always don’t test the sexual partner too, keeping that cycle of transmission going. Good news? Trichomoniasis is treatable with antibiotics. So if you’re dealing with any of these symptoms, don’t just sit there—get it sorted.
  

• HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)
  HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) attacks the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections. Early symptoms can feel like the flu—fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes—but many don’t show symptoms for years. Without treatment, HIV can progress to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which severely weakens the immune system.
  In Australia, around 30,010 people are living with HIV, with 722 new diagnoses in 2023. But thanks to antiretroviral therapy (ART), people with HIV can live long, healthy lives and even achieve an undetectable viral load, meaning they can't transmit the virus. Undetectable = untransmittable (U=U) is now a key message.

Despite progress, stigma still prevents some people from getting tested and treated. Regular testing and safe practices, like using condoms or PrEP, can reduce transmission. If you’re at risk, don’t wait—get tested and protect yourself.

Knowledge is power — especially when it comes to sexual health. Understanding these common STIs, getting regular testing, using protection, and seeking treatment early are key steps in preventing the spread of STIs.

Sexual health symptoms: Could it be an STI? 

Your body’s pretty good at letting you know when something’s off—don’t ignore the signs. Here are some common symptoms that could indicate an STI:

• Pain or discomfort: This could occur during urination, bowel movements, or intercourse. It’s not normal for these activities to hurt, and pain can sometimes (though not always) indicate infections like chlamydia or gonorrhoea.
• Unusual vaginal discharge: If you notice a change in colour, texture, or smell, it could be a sign of bacterial infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or bacterial vaginosis.
• Itching, irritation, or redness: Persistent itching or inflammation can signal an infection like trichomoniasis.
• Sores, bumps, or blisters: These might be painless or painful but are often associated with herpes, syphilis, or human papillomavirus (HPV).
• Bleeding or spotting: Unusual bleeding outside of menstrual cycles can indicate infections like chlamydia or gonorrhoea.
• Lower abdominal pain: This could signal pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a complication of untreated STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhoea, which can lead to infertility.
• Swollen lymph nodes: This could be your body’s response to an infection, particularly with herpes, syphilis, or HIV.
• Flu-like symptoms: Fever, fatigue, and muscle aches can accompany certain STIs, including HIV and syphilis.

Many STIs are asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms. In fact, up to 70% of women and 50% of men with chlamydia don’t show symptoms but can still spread the infection.

Even without initial symptoms, STIs can still cause serious health issues like infertility, chronic pain, or increased risk of other infections, including HIV. The sooner you catch and treat an STI, the better.

Concerned about symptoms? Get it checked. Don’t wait until a small itch (or pain, or discharge) turns into a big problem.

How to prevent STIs and STDs

When it comes to sexual health, prevention is key. And let’s be honest, nobody wants to deal with an STI—so let’s talk about how to keep things safe, while still enjoying all the fun. Here’s what you need to know about avoiding STIs:

• Condoms/dental dams are your best friend—seriously.
  When it comes to new partners, partners who haven’t been tested for STIs, or on-and-off flings — use male or female condoms or another kind of barrier method. Condoms are your first line of defense against most STIs, including HIV. They’re affordable, easy, and when used correctly, they keep both you and your partner safe. So, don’t skip out — your future self will thank you.‍
• Test regularly
  No symptoms? Doesn’t matter! Getting tested regularly is a simple way to stay on top of your sexual health. After all, you wouldn’t skip out on a check-up at the dentist, right? STIs can be sneaky, and many don’t show symptoms right away, so get tested and stay ahead of the game.‍
• Get vaccinated
  Did you know there are vaccines for some of the most common STIs out there, like HPV and hepatitis B? Ask your doctor about what’s available, and make sure you’re protected. It’s a small step that makes a huge difference in keeping your health in check.‍
• Talk about it (even if it’s awkward)
  Let’s be real: talking about sexual health might not feel like a “sexy” conversation, but it’s an important one. Make sure you’re having those talks with your partners. If someone’s not into getting tested or protecting themselves, that’s a huge red flag. Communication is key to keeping both of you safe.‍
• Play it safe with sex toys
  Anything that comes into contact with bodily fluids—whether it’s a vibrator, dildo, or any other toy—can carry STIs if not properly cleaned. If you’re sharing, make sure to use condoms on the toy or give it a thorough clean between partners. Your health is worth the extra step.‍
• Use protection during all types of sex
  Different types of sex (oral, vaginal, anal) all come with risks for STIs, so don’t forget to use protection for all of them. No matter what type of play you're into, it’s about being smart and safe for every encounter.

These simple steps can help you keep things safe, fun, and stress-free—so you can enjoy all the good stuff without any unwanted surprises.

How STIs and STDs are diagnosed

STIs and STDs don’t come with flashing neon signs, so testing is the only way to know for sure. Even if you feel perfectly fine, some infections fly under the radar—so regular check-ups are a must. Diagnosing an STI or STD involves a mix of medical history, physical exams, and lab tests.

There’s nothing to be nervous about. Sexual health checks, especially those completed by friendly, non-judgemental doctors like at Hazel, are a straightforward experience. Here’s how STIs and STDs are diagnosed:

• Symptom check & medical history: Your doctor will ask about symptoms, sexual history, and any potential exposure risks. Some STIs can be asymptomatic, so testing is often recommended even if you feel fine.
  
• Physical examination: If you have visible symptoms like sores, rashes, or unusual discharge, your doctor may do a physical exam to check for signs of an infection.
  
• Lab tests: This is where the real detective work happens:
  
  • Urine test: Used for infections like chlamydia and gonorrhoea.
  • Blood test: Common for HIV, syphilis, and sometimes herpes.
  • Swab test: A sample from the throat, genitals, or rectum may be taken for certain infections.
  • Pap Smear & HPV test: Checks for abnormal cervical cells linked to HPV.
    
• Rapid at-home tests: Some STIs, like HIV and chlamydia, have rapid or at-home test options. However, follow-ups with a healthcare provider are still recommended for confirmation.

Early detection is key, so regular testing is a must—especially if you’re sexually active with new (or multiple) partners. Better to know and get help than to unknowingly pass something along.

Sexual health treatments

If you're worried about having an STI  or STD, don’t worry—Hazel is here to help every step of the way. We’re committed to providing the support, advice, and care you need. Here’s a guide to some common STI treatments:

• Antibiotics for bacterial infections
  Many common STIs, like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis, are bacterial and can be treated with antibiotics. When caught early, these infections are usually easy to treat and clear up quickly. Just remember to finish your full course of antibiotics, even if you're starting to feel better!
  
• Antiviral medications for viral infections
  For viral infections like herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2) and HIV, there’s no permanent cure, but antiviral meds can help manage outbreaks, ease symptoms, and reduce the risk of passing it on. With HIV, treatment (ART) can help people live long, healthy lives by keeping the virus under control.
  
• Over-the-counter treatments
  For some STIs, especially those causing external symptoms, over-the-counter treatments can offer relief. For HPV, topical medications can treat genital warts, and herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2) can benefit from topical antiviral creams that ease outbreaks and reduce how long visible symptoms last.
  
• Contraceptive methods
  Contraception isn’t just about preventing pregnancy—it plays a key role in protecting and supporting overall sexual health. Barrier methods, like condoms, internal condoms or dental dams, are the only forms of contraception that help prevent STIs by reducing skin-to-skin contact and exposure to infected fluids
  
• Topical treatments for HPV and genital warts
  For viral infections like HPV, some strains cause genital warts, which can be treated with topical meds. Doctors might also suggest options like cryotherapy (freezing the warts) or laser therapy for tougher cases.
  
• Preventative & immune-boosting treatments
  For some STIs, like HIV, prevention is key. Medications like PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) can drastically reduce the risk of contracting HIV, and PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) can help prevent infection if taken soon after exposure.
  
• Surgical treatment for severe cases
  In rare cases—like when syphilis goes completely ignored or HPV leads to more serious complications—surgery might be needed to remove infected tissue. But don’t panic! Catching things early and getting the right treatment usually keeps you far, far away from an operating table.
  
• Psychology support for sexual health concerns
  Sexual health isn’t just physical—it can take a toll on your mental and emotional well-being too. If an STI diagnosis has you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, or just a little off, talking to a professional can make a world of difference. Therapy or counseling can help you process your feelings, build confidence, and navigate relationships with ease.

Hazel’s sexology and psychology services are here to support you with expert advice and judgment-free care — beyond just treating the physical symptoms. Because your sexual health and mental wellbeing should never feel like something you have to figure out alone.

Sexology: A Holistic Approach to Sexual Health

At Hazel, we take a holistic approach to sexual health because we know it’s not just about STI testing and education —it's also about building a healthy connection with your sexuality, both physically and emotionally.

But what exactly is sexology, you ask? It’s the scientific study of human sexuality—looking at everything from sexual behaviour and relationships to addressing pain during sex, sexual function, and desires. Sexologists are experts who are trained to address a wide range of sexual health issues and concerns, offering a safe, non-judgemental space to talk about everything from intimacy to self-exploration.

If you’re interested in talking to someone about your sexual health, beyond just getting the all-clear for STIs, our Hazel sexologist is available to work with you to understand your unique sexual health journey and empower you to make informed choices.

We understand that sexual health is healthcare, and that finding supportive stigma-free care is key.‍

Sexual health services: How to get help

Sexual health services go beyond just STI testing—they’re your go-to for anything from birth control advice to dealing with sexual dysfunction or relationship issues. Whether you're looking for routine check-ups, STI treatments, or just some professional guidance around sexual health, these services are key for maintaining both your physical and emotional well-being.

At Hazel, we don’t just talk the talk—we walk the walk when it comes to sexual health. From virtual appointment testing referrals and treatments to specialist support in sexology and psychology, we offer everything you need to stay on top of your game.

Whether it’s a routine check-up or some real talk about your sex life, Hazel is here to make sure you get the help you deserve—no judgement, just expert care, all from your own couch. Because your health is too important to ignore.‍

Sexual health in a nutshell

Sexual health is an essential part of our overall wellbeing, and prioritising regular check-ups and open conversations is the first step towards taking control of it. With rising rates of STIs in Australia, it’s clear that we need to shift the stigma surrounding sexual health and make prevention and testing a routine part of self-care. At Hazel, we provide a judgement-free space where you can get the care you need, whether it’s testing, treatment, or contraception advice.

Don't wait for symptoms to show up—regular check-ups are key to protecting your health and your future. If you're due for a check-up or have concerns about your sexual health, book an appointment with one of our doctors today. We’re here to help you with a simple, safe, and confident approach to taking care of your sexual health.‍

Sexual Health FAQs

What is sexual health?
‍Sexual health isn’t just about avoiding STIs—it’s about feeling good, staying safe, and making informed choices. It covers everything from contraception and reproductive health to consent, pleasure, and emotional wellbeing. Taking care of your sexual health means protecting yourself and your partners while having access to the care and support you need.

Where can I get tested for STDs or STIs?
Getting tested is easy, and you’ve got plenty of options. You can visit your GP, a sexual health clinic, or a family planning service, all of which offer STI screening. Many clinics provide free or low-cost testing, and if you’d rather skip the waiting room, at-home STI test kits or virtual sexual health clinics like Hazel offer a discreet, convenient alternative. Some hospitals and walk-in clinics also provide testing, especially if you’re experiencing symptoms.

What are sexual health services?
Sexual health services go beyond just STI testing. They include contraception advice, HPV vaccinations, HIV prevention and treatment, and education on safe sex and relationships. Many services also offer mental health support for issues like sexual dysfunction, relationship concerns, and navigating a new diagnosis.

What do sexual health clinics do?
Sexual health clinics offer confidential STI testing and treatment, birth control options, vaccinations, and expert advice on everything from HIV prevention to reproductive health. They also provide counseling and support to help you manage your sexual wellbeing without stress or stigma.

Want to take control of your sexual health without the hassle? Hazel offers at-home consults with referrals for STI and STD testing, so you can get the care you need—minus the awkward waiting room.