HIV/AIDS and STIs

STIs are sexually transmitted infections or diseases that are spread via sexual intercourse.

Most of them can be successfully treated with medication. Often you don't even notice these infections. But they can still make you sick.

That is why we advise you to have regular check-ups (preferably every 4 to 6 months).

With many STIs, you don't have any symptoms. However, as soon as you notice irritated, itchy skin, funny smells or other symptoms in your private parts, you should contact a doctor or a counselling centre.

Many public health offices offer counselling, free and anonymous tests, check-ups and treatments for prostitutes. You can find more information here.

There also exist sexual health or AIDS counselling centres that offer free or low-cost tests for HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). You can find more information here.

On the website www.hiv-sti-test.nrw you will find information about HIV and sexually transmitted infections as well as many counselling and testing services in North Rhine-Westphalia.

If you have health insurance, you can also see a doctor; your health insurance will then pay the bill.

Because you have multiple sex partners, your risk of catching a sexually transmitted infection is greater.

Safer sex greatly lowers the risk of infection. 

If you suspect that a client may be ill or if you notice wounds or cracks on your own skin or that of the client, you must be particularly careful. Always use condoms and perhaps additionally latex gloves. If you have a weird feeling about a client, you can always refuse him or her.

We distinguish between bacterial, viral and parasitic STIs.

Bacterial STIs are caused by bacteria and can usually be treated with antibiotics. Bacterial STIs include chlamydia, syphilis, and gonorrhoea.

Viral STIs are caused by viruses. They often take a long time to treat, because treatment mostly begins too late due to the lack of symptoms. In most cases, however, these infections are also curable or so well treatable that they hardly reduce life expectancy. They include hepatitis A, B and C, HPV (human papillomavirus)/genital warts, herpes and HIV.

Parasites are tiny creatures that can also be transmitted through skin-on-skin contact. They are usually well treatable. They include trichomoniasis, crabs and scabies.

HIV is an abbreviation for “Human Immunodeficiency Virus” and is one of the best known sexually transmitted infections.

There is no cure for HIV, but it can be successfully treated.

Without medication, HIV can cause the life-threatening disease AIDS. If you are diagnosed with an HIV infection, you can take daily medication and lead a long and healthy life. Modern therapies for HIV infection can also reduce the virus count in the body to such a level that there is no longer any risk of infection.

HIV can be transmitted via the exchange of body fluids (vaginal secretions, semen, anal secretions, and blood), via the mucous membranes or open wounds. Therefore, condoms are important during sex. Also, always make sure that no sperm comes into contact with the mucous membranes in your mouth or eyes.

If you believe you have been infected with HIV, you should take an HIV test. Contact a counselling centre in your area.

Always work with condoms only. Condoms offer good protection against most sexually transmitted infections. Always take your own condoms with you to your clients.

In addition, you can protect yourself by getting vaccinated. Get advice on this at a doctor's surgery or public health office.

As soon as you notice irritated, itchy skin, funny smells or other symptoms in your genital or anal region, as well as on your mouth or throat, you should have yourself checked.

Also check your clients’ private parts. If you notice changes, avoid any contact with affected skin areas.

If you still want to work during your STI treatment, you should only offer practices such as hand massages.

It is important to detect an infection as early as possible. The earlier it is detected, the better it can be treated. As soon as you notice any symptoms, go and see a doctor immediately.