STI
Looking for information about Monkeypox? Monkeypox is transmitted through close, sustained physical contact, including sexual contact, the infection can also be spread through non-sexual contact. For more information about monkeypox, visit our DCHD Monkeypox web page.
WHAT IS AN STI?
An “STI” — which stands for “Sexually Transmitted Infection” — is an infection that passes from one person to another through vaginal, oral, and anal sex. STIs can also spread through intimate physical contact like heavy petting, though this is not very common, and through non-sexual contact (for example, people who share needles can infect each other with HIV).
STIs are very common, with millions of new infections occurring every year in the United States.
STIs don't always cause symptoms or may cause only mild symptoms. Therefore, it is possible to have an infection and not know it. If you are sexually active, it’s important that you get tested.
Please note: We use the term “STI” instead of long-used term “STD” (which stands for “Sexually Transmitted Disease”). “STI” is the most up-to-date term — educators and health care providers switched from STD to STI because “infection” is more accurate and less stigmatizing than “disease.” Still, both terms may be used somewhat interchangeably by health providers and health care organizations.
Which Tests Should I Get? (CDC website)
If you receive a positive diagnosis, know that all are treatable with medicine and some are curable entirely.
STIs are preventable. If you have sex, know how to protect yourself and your sex partner(s) from an STI.
Doing Delco Safely
The Delaware County Health Department has launched “Doing Delco Safely,” a free mail-order condom distribution program in recognition of Valentine’s Day and National Condom Week. Doing Delco Safely offers a variety of condom options. Residents can order up to 10 free condoms to be mailed directly to them at: https://delco.jotform.com/222093639102854. Additionally, residents can also pick up condoms during business hours at both Delaware County Wellness Centers in Yeadon and Chester. Find out more about Doing Delco Safely on the DCHD press release.
DCHD Sexual Health Services:
- Counseling for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus)
- Testing for STIs
- Treatment for STIs
STI/HIV clinic walk-In hours available:
Monday - Friday 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Delaware County Wellness Center at Chester
151 W. 5th Street (5th & Penn)
Chester, PA
Mondays 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Tuesday - Friday, By Appointment Only
Delaware County Wellness Center at Yeadon
125 Chester Avenue
Yeadon, Pa. 19050
*STI/HIV Health Services will be available at the Delaware County Wellness Center beginning July 22, 2022.
For more information or to schedule an appointment:
Phone: (484) 276-2100
Email: DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us
Additional Resources from the CDC:
How You Can Prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases
Information for Teens and Young Adults: Staying Healthy and Preventing STDs - CDC Fact Sheet
STD Testing: Information for Parents of Adolescents
How to talk to a doctor about STD Testing
For more information and assistance, the Delaware County Health Department Wellness Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. In addition to responding to phone calls, the Wellness Line also responds to email inquiries.
Phone: (484) 276-2100 (Available 24/7)
Email:DelcoWellness@co.delaware.pa.us
