Sexual healing: Here's all you need to know about STI screening as infections in Ireland soar

The recent dramatic rise in STIs means we need to be all the more watchful about the symptoms and get tested regularly 

Because we can carry these STIs without showing symptoms, it is recommended that sexually active people take proactive steps to stop them from spreading. 

Rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are soaring in Ireland, prompting questions about why this is happening and what those with an active sex life can do to protect themselves.

From the beginning of this year to October 7, the Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC) recorded 10,546 cases of chlamydia. That’s an increase of 40% on last year’s rate.