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In Canada, some of the highest rates and increases in STIs
are in young people ages 15 to 24.
Many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have no visible symptoms. Lots of STIs are treatable.
STI Prevention
Whether you are having sex or thinking of having sex, you need to know how to prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (OPH):
- Always use latex or polyurethane condoms or latex barriers (dams) during sex (including oral sex).
- Only use a water-based lubricant with latex condoms, as an oil-based lubricant will cause the latex to break.
- If using sex toys, use condoms and dental dams to help prevent the spread of STIs. Proper cleaning of sex toys is necessary to avoid transmission of STIs.
- Get tested once a year and before you have sex with a new partner or if you think you may have an STI.
- Inform your partner(s) if you test positive for an STI.
- Limit the amount of alcohol or drugs you use before you have sex. Alcohol or drugs can affect your decision-making and negotiating skills. This may put you at an increased risk of getting an STI.
STI Testing at UOHS and other locations in Ottawa
The ONLY way to know if you have HIV or another STI is to get tested. Regular testing is an important part of sexual health. Knowing if you have an STI is the first step to keeping yourself and your partners healthy.
STI and HIV Testing at UOHS
- By appointment: Call the clinic at 613-564-3950 or go in person to 100 Marie Curie (2nd or 3rd floor) to book an appointment (often available that same day) for STI and HIV testing with your family physician or nurse. If you don’t yet have a family physician at UOHS, register online and then book an appointment.
- Walk-in clinic: If you cannot book an appointment, visit the UOHS walk-in clinic on the 1st floor at 100 Marie Curie. Rapid HIV testing is also available at the walk-in clinic.
- UOHS Health Promotion (UCU 203): FREE rapid Anonymous HIV Testing is available to students and staff at the University of Ottawa on Wednesday afternoons. Testing is offered in Partnership with Somerset West Community Health Centre (SWCHC). Drop by UCU203 or call 613-562-5800 x2941 to book your appointment.
*Please note that there is a $20 fee to cover the cost of the rapid HIV testing kit when being tested at the clinic.
STI and HIV Testing is also available at these locations in the Ottawa Area:
- Ottawa Public Health Sexual Health Centre, 179 Clarence Street, 613-234-4641 (website)
- Somerset West Community Health Centre, 55 Eccles Street, 613-238-8210 (website)
Are you at risk? Should you get tested? Take the test!
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For more information, call or visit these websites: |
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HPV (Human Papillomavirus) and the HPV vaccine
Human Papillomavirus is among the most common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Canada and worldwide. Many types of HPV have been identified, with some leading to cancer and others to skin lesions like ano-genital warts.
Fortunately, two vaccines, Gardasil and Cervarix, are now available to help prevent infection with some types of HPV. They offer protection against the HPV types that are responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancers.
Both HPV vaccines are available at the University of Ottawa Health Services, either in our walk-in clinic or by appointment with your family physician or nurse practitioner.
HPV Vaccination Info for Students:
If you have coverage under your parent or partner’s health plan, or the SFUO or GSAED health plans, your HPV vaccinations are eligible for partial or full reimbursement by your insurer.
HPV vaccinations are NOT covered under the basic UHIP health plan.
For students who do not have additional coverage under their parent or partner’s plan, the SFUO and GSAED plans will partially cover the cost for the HPV vaccinations. The following vaccination schedule is recommended to maximize your insurance coverage (and reduce your cost):
- 1st vaccination in the spring
- 2nd vaccination two months later
- 3rd vaccination six months later when your health plan renews in the fall
Follow your doctor’s advice regarding the optimal time to get all three vaccinations and contact your insurer for more information about your insurance coverage for HPV vaccinations.
