Information about sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Page last reviewed 5.5.2023

What everyone should know about STIs?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are very common. In Finland, more than 30,000 people get an STI every year. The number of confirmed syphilis and gonorrhea infections has doubled within a year. Both HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases are often asymptomatic, meaning you might not have any symptoms even if you have an STI. All kinds of sexually active people can get STIs. Having an STI doesn’t make a person bad or dirty. There is a lot of unnecessary shame associated with STIs. This can lead to unnecessary fear and to people not getting tested. Getting an STI is not the end of the world, it is just one thing that happens in life.

STIs are usually caused by a bacteria or a virus. Some STIs are more common than others. Sexually transmitted infections can be transmitted through vaginal or anal intercourse, oral sex, or rimming (anal licking) when a condom or dental dam is not in use. In this section you will find more information on specific STIs, how they are transmitted, how they are tested and treated.

Testing and treatment of most STIs is free of charge in public health care in Finland

The symptoms of all STIs are treatable and most sexually transmitted infections are also curable. Testing and treatment of most STIs is free of charge in public health care in Finland. Only treatment of herpes and condyloma are not free. If you have had a situation where an STI could have transmitted, you should get tested for STIs. All sexually transmitted diseases may be asymptomatic or their symptoms may be minor.

If you get diagnosed with an STI, you need to tell your sexual partners to get tested too. During the medical treatment of the STI, you should not have sex. Even after your treatment, it’s recommended use a condom with every sex partner until you have been checked by control test.

How can I prevent sexually transmitted infections?

There are different options for preventing STIs. Check out condoms, lubricants and oral protectors here. PrEP medication is effective in preventing HIV infections. More information about PrEP can be found here. For many, regular STI testing is a great way to take care of their sexual health. You decide!

Where to get tested for other STIs?

• public health care centers
• STI clinics (venereal diseases outpatient clinics)
• occupational health care
• student health care
• private providers of health care and social services, private medical centers (chargeable)

Testing practices vary by municipality. You can get the most up-to-date information on STI testing in your area by calling the area’s public health care center or looking for information on the municipality’s own website. In many areas, sexually transmitted disease tests can be accessed by booking an appointment online.