Testing and treatment

The terms STD and STI are commonly used to refer to infections that are transmitted sexually. More recently, you might have also heard of STBBI, which also refers to infections transmitted through contact with blood or blood products. On this page you will see us using the broader term STBBIs.

If you’re sexually active, it’s recommended that you get tested for sexually transmitted infections and blood borne infections (STBBIs)frequently . There are situations where getting tested more regularly is the best thing but typically it comes down to lifestyle – this means how sexually active you are, how often you change partners and a few other things to keep in mind if you are having vaginal, anal or oral sex. And remember, if you’re going to get tested for one, get tested for all. Talk to your health-care provider for more information.

Aside from regular testing, get checked for STBBIs if you:

• have STBBI symptoms; 
• think you have an STBBI;
• have a sexual partner who has STBBI symptoms or who has been diagnosed with an STBBI;
• had unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex with casual partners;
• had a condom break or fall off during sex;
• are starting a new sexual relationship or have casual partners;
• if you share sex toys;
• have been sexually assaulted.

A quick urine test can detect infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea while a blood test will detect syphilis, hepatitis and HIV. If you’re going to test for one, it’s important to test for all.

For more information on testing, programs and services click here: Pregnancy, sexual and reproductive health (gnb.ca)

For 24-hour support from a registered nurse or to find more information on testing, call Tele-Care 811.  

While most STBBIs don’t have any symptom at first, you can use GNB’s symptom checker to get more information on symptoms that develop Use the symptom checker tool to find out:

• If a health-care visit is needed (i.e., health-care provider, hospital, ambulance, etc.);
• What steps you can take to manage your symptoms at home.

Symptom Checker (gnb.ca)

STBBIs are common. If you’ve been infected with one, the best thing to do is make sure that it’s not given to anyone else.

The next step is to get treatment. Your health-care provider or public health nurse will support you to access the proper treatment. Do this because most STBBIs are treatable if they’re found early but untreated STBBIs can potentially lead to health problems. 

Once you get tested, your health-care provider will advise you of your results or you may access them on your MyHealthNB account. If you get tested at a sexual health clinic, and have a positive test result, you will be contacted by Public Health, which will provide you with important information and support.

• Chlamydia
• Genital herpes
• Gonorrhea
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C
• HIV/AIDS
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
• Syphilis

• Sexual Health Services – Vitalité Health Network
• Sexual Health Services – Horizon Health Network