Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

You can get an STI when you have unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sex or by contact with an infected sore or ulcer on someone’s body. Condoms and dental dams can reduce your risk of getting a STI when used correctly for each sexual encounter, but they do not provide 100% protection. Click here to learn more about correct condom use from the Centers for Disease Control.

Student Health Services provides confidential counseling for Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) prevention and risk reduction. Student Health offers STI testing, diagnosis and treatment and immunizations for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and HPV (Gardasil) for a fee.

Students can get the ChemBio HIV 1/2 Stat Pak Assay HIV test for free at Student Health Services.  The test is a quick fingerstick and results are obtained within 20 minutes. Call 703-993-2831 to schedule your appointment.

Individual Mason students can pick up FREE external (male) condoms, dental dams, and lubrication from the sexual health dispenser in the SUB 1 Patriots Lounge during building hours. The dispenser is on the wall between the restrooms in Patriot Lounge. Another dispenser is in the Johnson Center, 1st floor, on the wall by blue lockers near the entrance on the east side. RAs & RSOs should submit the Safer Sex Condom Request Form for residence halls and events.

Prevention and Precautions

STIs may show no symptoms. If you are sexually active, it is important that you know your STI status.  Get regular check-ups and STI screenings. If you know you are infected you can take steps to get treatment and protect yourself and your partners.

STIs can be prevented by practicing safer sex, by abstaining from sex, by learning about your partner’s sexual history, and by avoiding contact with abnormal bumps, ulcers or sores.

Signs and Symptoms

Some STIs cause no symptoms, and many people with STIs have no symptoms. Get tested. Some common symptoms can include:

  • Unusual genital discharge
  • Burning or pain during urination or a bowel movement
  • Bumps, blisters, ulcers, or sores near the mouth or genitals
  • Flu-like symptoms, including fever, chills, and aches
  • Swelling in the groin area
  • Abdominal discomfort

If You Test Positive for an STI

STIs are treatable and some are curable. If you or your partner is infected with an STI, you should start treatment and take precautions to avoid getting re-infected. An untreated infection can lead to serious health problems, even if you never have symptoms. Follow your healthcare provider’s treatment plan and recommendations.

Tell your partner(s) about having an STI. It may feel emotionally uncomfortable, but telling your partner allows them to protect their health too. Tips for getting the conversation started are available from the Centers for Disease Control and Get Yourself Tested.

Common STIs

Select an STI to get more information from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website about treatments, and prevention and precaution tips.

Additional Information

Centers for Disease Control

Planned Parenthood

Fairfax County Department of Health