Every day, more than one million people worldwide are infected with a sexually transmitted infection (STI). According to a report by the World Health Organization, HIV, viral hepatitis and other STIs are responsible for around 2.5 million deaths each year. Luxembourg also shows how serious the issue is: Luxembourg has the highest infection rate for syphilis in Europe. Teenagers and young adults are particularly affected. Around two-thirds of all new infections occur in people under the age of 25, and one in four affects a teenager. Most infections can be prevented – or at least detected early and treated effectively.

There are more than 20 sexually transmitted infectious diseases that doctors differentiate between. The best known are syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, HIV/AIDS, mycoplasma infections, and viral diseases such as HPV (human papillomavirus) and genital herpes. Other pathogens include pubic lice, scabies and hepatitis viruses. Despite this diversity, they have one thing in common: they are usually transmitted through sex – sometimes also through skin contact, contaminated sex toys or even from mother to child during pregnancy or birth. Many of those affected do not initially notice their infection because it does not cause any symptoms for a long time. However, if left untreated, STIs can have serious consequences, ranging from infertility to organ damage and cancer.

Easier to treat, therefore underestimated

STIs are easier to treat today than they used to be, but they have by no means disappeared. As a result, they are often underestimated and forgotten. However, the danger remains, as the rising syphilis figures in this country show.

Prevention is possible if you know the right protective measures. Condoms and Femidoms, a contraceptive device inserted into the vagina by the woman herself, significantly reduce the risk of infection. When it comes to oral sex, there are special protective options such as dental dams: thin, flexible sheets that are placed over the vulva or anus and act as a barrier. Prevention also includes not touching skin changes such as blisters, warts or ulcers and always cleaning sex toys or covering them with fresh condoms. Those who pay attention to hygiene during petting or mutual masturbation and do not exchange bodily fluids expose themselves to only a low risk.

Protection through vaccination

Some infections can even be prevented by vaccination. There is effective protection against HPV, which is ideally administered before the first sexual intercourse. Vaccinations are also available against hepatitis A and B. This is particularly advisable for people who frequently change partners, men who have sex with men, or people with chronic liver disease. There are no vaccinations against HIV, chlamydia and gonorrhoea, but medication can help to significantly reduce the risk.

Anyone who has had risky contact despite taking all precautions should seek medical advice as soon as possible. After unprotected sexual contact or if a condom breaks, post-exposure prophylaxis can reduce the risk of HIV infection if started within 24 hours. And those who get tested regularly, especially if they have multiple partners, can detect infections early and get treatment before they spread or cause further damage.

Knowledge also protects others

Many STIs go unnoticed for a long time. That is why experts recommend knowing your status – especially after one-night stands or frequent partner changes. A negative test result shortly after contact often does not rule out infection, as some pathogens are only detectable after days or weeks. Rapid home tests are an option, but they are not a substitute for medical diagnosis and consultation.

There are simple and anonymous options in Luxembourg for testing and consultation. The DIMPS mobile service offers free and confidential testing for HIV, hepatitis C and syphilis at various locations on a regular basis, provides information on protection options, and distributes prevention materials such as condoms and information brochures. The current schedule and locations can be found on the Croix-Rouge Luxembourg website. Self-tests can also be ordered by phone at 27 55 – 4500.