STIs & HIV

In today’s digital world, there are more ways than ever to connect, meet, and hook up. Sex is fun—and it’s even better when you stay healthy.

This section highlights modern tools and medicines that help protect against sexually transmitted infections you might encounter, including HIV.

Whether you’re new, coming back, or just want a refresher, we’ve pulled together the key info from recent research and advances. For more details, you can always talk to your healthcare provider or check out our factsheets.

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Understanding STIs & HIV

Back in the 80’s and 90’s, the shadow of HIV was always hanging over any kind of sex. Many people died, and everyone was shouting at you to use condoms all the time. But there are lots of ways to have sex, and lots of new ways we can protect ourselves now.

With modern treatment, HIV is no longer a death-sentence. It’s still a concern, as are other STIs that are still circulating. But the landscape has changed. Find out what’s new and what’s stayed the same by reading on.

Other STIs and MPOX

Sexually Trasmitted Infections (STI) are common and on the rise, especially in gay, bi, and queer men’s communities. Some can be cured, others managed—but all are easier to deal with when tested and treated early. Mpox has also emerged in our networks, reminding us that vaccines, testing, and paying attention to symptoms are key parts of staying healthy and protecting each other. This section has got the updated info and resources so you can stay on top of what’s current!

Hepatitis C

Hepatitis is inflammation of the liver, an important organ that clears toxins in your body. There are 5 strains of viruses (from A through E) that can cause hepatitis, but…

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI). It’s caused by bacteria called Neisseria gonorrhoeae and spreads through oral, anal, or genital sex. In Canada, rates of gonorrhea are rising….

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It’s caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis. In Canada, chlamydia is the most reported bacterial STI. It can…

Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum. Of the "big three" common bacterial STIs, syphilis can cause the most permanent harm if left…

HPV

HPV (human papillomavirus) is the world’s most common STI. It's so common that about 75% of sexually active adults will encounter it at some point. Most never know, because the…

HSV (Herpes): What You Should Know

Herpes is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the world. It’s caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types: HSV-1: usually linked…

Shigella

Shigella is a bacteria that makes you sick to your stomach. It’s mostly found in contaminated water or food but it also passes down into poop. That means that if…

Mpox

Mpox (formerly called monkeypox) is a virus that causes painful rashes and blisters on the skin. It has been in Ontario since 2022. Most cases have occurred among gay, bi,…

Prevention Tools

The saying “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” which wasn’t really about sexual health, but it could have been! Thankfully, most STIs today are either curable or treatable, but just ask anyone who’s ever had symptoms: that doesn’t mean it’s a fun time to have one!

There’s no one-size-fits-all-method for preventing STIs. Some people stick to one strategy, and others use multiple tools. Today, there are more ways than ever to keep yourself and your partners healthy. The choice is yours to make: what’ll it be?