Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections passed through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. These infections—caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites—can affect both your body and your emotional well-being. STIs can impact relationships, confidence, and daily health. Getting tested early and treated properly helps avoid long-term problems. The DOXXES store on Westheimer/Dairy Ashford offers safe, private access to helpful tools and wellness products.
2. What Are STIs?
STIs spread through sexual contact and may affect the skin or deeper tissues. Sometimes they become worse with physical friction or stimulation. Common STIs include:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Many STIs have no symptoms at first, so regular checkups are important to protect reproductive and cervical health.
3. What Causes STIs?
Emotional factors:
- Stress or anxiety about sex
- Past trauma or fear
- Low self-confidence or relationship problems
Physical factors:
- Weakened immune system
- Hormonal changes like menopause or postpartum recovery
- Muscle imbalances in the pelvic area
- Body changes after childbirth or surgery
Understanding these causes helps guide better prevention and care.
4. Common STIs and Symptoms
STIs that often affect people include:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- HSV (Herpes)
- Syphilis
Symptoms to watch for:
- Burning while urinating
- Itching, swelling, or unusual discharge
- Pain during sex
- Skin changes or sores
You can help your provider by writing down:
- When symptoms began
- What triggers them
- What products or habits might be involved
5. Who Is Affected?
STIs can affect anyone—regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation.
For women:
- Symptoms often appear earlier
- Risks of pelvic infections and infertility go up with age
For men:
- May notice itching, swelling, or pain during urination
- Some carry infections without symptoms and can still spread them
6. How Therapy Can Help
Sex therapists offer support that goes beyond the physical. They help with:
- Talking through past experiences
- Reducing fear or shame
- Rebuilding trust and communication with partners
- Referring you for medical care when needed
7. STI Treatment and Care
Treating STIs involves more than just medication. A well-rounded care plan can include:
- Individual or couples counseling
- Relaxation and stress relief practices
- Healthy eating and supplements to support your immune system
- Good sleep habits, hydration, and regular medical follow-up
8. Tools and Products from DOXXES
DOXXES offers private, expert-selected items that can support your recovery:
- Water-based lubricants – reduce discomfort and protect sensitive skin
- Pelvic training tools – help regulate and retrain muscles
- Gentle vibration devices – improve touch comfort and healing
- Prostate massagers – support healthy circulation and tissue repair
All products come with clear instructions and are best used with guidance from your healthcare provider.
9. Talking About STIs
It’s okay to feel nervous about these conversations—but openness helps reduce fear and builds trust.
Tips:
- Use calm, direct language: “There’s something important I want to talk about.”
- Pick a quiet, private setting
- Share helpful resources or articles
- Let past partners know—your provider can help if needed
10. Visit the DOXXES Store
Come to the DOXXES location on Westheimer/Dairy Ashford for a safe, nonjudgmental experience. Our trained team offers thoughtful guidance and helps you choose the right wellness tools.
11. Conclusion
Talking about STIs doesn’t have to be uncomfortable. With education, care, and the right support, you can feel better, safer, and more confident. DOXXES is here to help you move forward—your health, comfort, and intimacy matter.
FAQs
- 1. What are STIs?
STIs are infections passed through sex—oral, vaginal, or anal. They come from bacteria, viruses, or parasites. - 2. How do they spread?
They spread through body fluids, skin contact, or even without symptoms in some cases. - 3. Who can get an STI?
Anyone who is sexually active—regardless of gender or age. - 4. What are the signs?
Burning when peeing, discharge, itching, pain during sex, or sometimes no symptoms at all. - 5. What raises the risk?
Stress, weakened immunity, hormone changes, pelvic problems, or past trauma. - 6. How do I track symptoms?
Write down when they happen, how you feel, and what might be causing them. - 7. Can therapy help?
Yes—therapists help with emotions, relationships, and ways to reduce fear or shame. - 8. How are STIs treated?
With medicine, self-care, hygiene, therapy, and regular follow-ups. - 9. What does DOXXES offer?
Products like lubricants, pelvic tools, and gentle vibrators to help support healing and comfort. - 10. How do I talk to someone about it?
Be honest, kind, and informed. Share facts and ask for support. Providers can also help you talk to past partners.