Travelers should be aware that the risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) (formally known as STD's) (venereal disease) is high in some areas of the world. HIV infection, which can be passed sexually, and AIDS have become a global health problem and the prevalence of these diseases in the high risk groups continue to escalate. Antibiotic-resistant strains of some bacteria that cause STIs have been noted with increasing frequency in many parts of the world.

To reduce the risk of STI, travelers should avoid anonymous partners, prostitutes, and other persons who have multiple sex partners. If they choose to have intercourse, travelers should avoid sexual contact with anyone who has a genital discharge, genital warts, or other suspicious genital lesions; AIDS or evidence of HIV infection; avoid anal contact to prevent rectal and intestinal infections; and avoid genital contact with oral "cold sores". During intercourse, males should use condoms and female travelers should not only use diaphragms in combination with spermicides, but insist that their male partners use condoms.

Your local Family planning clinic or Doctor will be able to give advice on 'Safe-Sex' and supply condoms and diffrent forms of female contraception before you travel.

If you suspect you may have contracted a Sexually Transmitted Infections whilst abroad contact your Doctor or local sexual health clinic ASAP for further information.

You can contact the FPA's nationwide Contraceptive Education Service ( CES ) Helpline for confidential information and advice on contraception, sexual and reproductive health, plus details of family planning clinics, sexual health clinics and other sexual health services.

fpa UK.. Opening hours 9am to 7pm Monday to Friday - 0845 310 1334

fpa Scotland.. Opening hours 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday - 0141 576 5088

fpa N/Ireland.. Opening hours 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday - 028 90 325 488

Derry - 028 71 260 061

Young People can also contact Brook free for list of local fpa clinics - 0800 0185 023