My condom broke, what do I do?
  • If you are a female and your partners condom broke – if you are not on any form of hormonal birth control you may need Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP) a.s.a.p (most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex).   If concerned about contracting a Sexual Transmitted Infection (STI), STI testing can be done on both parties after 14 days.  Blood work can be done after 14 weeks (3 months, 1 week).
  • If you are a male and the condom breaks – please follow the above recommendations re STI testing.

  How long after unprotected sex can I get tested
  for STI’s and pregnancy?
  • Testing for pregnancy can be done 1 week after your first missed period.
  • STI testing see above.

  I want to get tested for everything, can I?
  • If you think you may have been exposed to an STI you can be tested as follows:
    • Chlamydia (female – swabs, male – urine test) and
    • Gonorrhea (females – swabs, male – swabs) – 14 days after exposure
    • Blood testing for HIV, Hepatitis  B, Hepatitis C and Syphillis can be done together at 14 weeks post exposure
    • Genital Wart – is a visual inspection only
    • Herpes – type 1 and 2 – swab only when a sore is visible
    • Trichomonas - swab

  I have tested positive for Chlamydia, am I sterile?

  • Most people with a single positive Chlamydia test are fertile and will remain fertile.  All positive Chlamydia tests require treatment.  Repeated Chlamydia infections or prolonged untreated Chlamydia infections increase the risk of infertility.  It is important that your sexual partner be tested and treated for Chlamydia.  Use a condom for one week after treatment.  Persons treated for Chlamydia are to be retested 6 weeks after treatment to ensure that they are infection free.

  Can you get infections from oral sex?
  • Yes.  Many STI’s can be transmitted to the mouth/lips/throat.  Please contact your health care provider if you are experiencing any unusual symptoms.

  How do I tell my partner I have an STI?
  • It may be difficult to tell your partner that you have an STI and you may have many feelings, including anger, fear, and/or sadness, but honesty is important.
  • STI infection is a public health concern - positive tests need to be reported to Public Health.
  • Both partners should be tested and treated and both will need to be retested in 6 weeks (depending on infection)
  • If you have specific questions or concerns about telling your partner please consult with a health care provider.

  What do I do if I, or my partner, is allergic to latex?
  • There are a few options available:
    • Polyurethane male condoms, more expensive but more effective
    • Polyurethane female condom can also be used
    • Natural skin condoms are available but they do not protect against STI’s

  How can I get my partner to wear a condom?
  • Find out why your partner is reluctant to wear a condom.
  • Explain your own concerns and reasons why you want to wear a condom.
  • Express the importance of wearing a condom (pregnancy and STI prevention).
  • If the male says that he doesn't like the “feel” of condoms, suggest that he put some lubricant in the tip of the condom before putting it on.
  • DO NOT have sex if you feel unsafe in any way.  Only you can take responsibility for your sexual health.

  I want a tattoo/piercing, how do I know the shop is safe?
  • These establishments are not regulated in Canada.
  • You will have to do your own research:
    • Ask to see their references.
    • Ask to see their credentials.
    • Talk others who’ve gone to the shop about their experience.
    • Ask to see their work.
    • If you want to know particulars re safety standards call us and ask to speak with our HIV Anonymous Testing Coordinator.