Program Description The only way to reduce the risk of getting an STI is by using safe sex practices such as a condom each and every time and limiting your number of sexual partners. Abstinence is 100% effective.
The Northwestern Health Unit offers confidential, accurate and non-judgmental services. Services are available for both males and females. No referral is necessary. Clinical services include testing and treatment for all STIs. Clients attending
Sexual Health Clinics have an opportunity to learn about STIs and how to prevent them. For individuals with an STI, the Sexual Health Clinic can in some cases, provide approved treatment drugs at no cost. We also provide Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B vaccine to high-risk clients free of charge according to Ministry of Health Guidelines. Condoms are available free at all Northwestern Health Unit offices.
Resources for parents, teens and teachers are also available. For more information about resources or services please contact your nearest
Northwestern Health Unit office.
Did you know: - The most common STI in Northwestern Ontario is Chlamydia.
- Anybody engaging in unprotected oral, vaginal, and anal sexual activity is at risk.
- It only takes once.
- You can get more than one STI at a time.
- Many people have no symptoms with an infection.
- Symptoms could include a discharge, pain during sex, abdominal pain, burning/pain when peeing and unusual vaginal bleeding.
- Condoms used during oral, anal or vaginal sexual activity can reduce the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.
- Untreated STI's can result in infertility for both men and women.
Community PartnersWorking with these community partners helps to ensure that education, health promotion and prevention messages are being heard in our communities:
- Non-traditional school settings
- Recovery homes
- Youth Centers
- Correctional Facilities
- Hospitals
- Physicians
- Health Access Centers
- First Nation & Inuit Health Branches