The Better2Know Blog

A study by Age UK indicates a rise in the prevalence of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among older people. The stigma associated with STIs presents a barrier for many in taking care of their sexual health. Unfortunately, age does not equal immunity when it comes to STIs. Knowing your sexual health status is important no matter how old you are.

Our health is one of the most important things in life. Just as many people feel nervous about speaking to a GP, it is also perfectly normal to feel uneasy about having a sexual health check-up. The Better2Know service makes your STI test as simple, discrete and stress-free as possible.

Associating HIV with death must be stopped. This is no longer the reality. This week, former rugby player Gareth Thomas publicly announced his HIV status in the hope of changing perceptions on living with HIV. “I’ve got HIV and it’s OK”, he said. In light of this, we want to help beat the stigma and eradicate the myths surrounding life with HIV.

Freshers’ week marks the start of a new adventure. Meeting new people, living independently and enjoying new experiences. One whole week to socialise in your new city before the real studying at university begins. There are a few important things to bear in mind as Freshers’ week approaches.

New diagnoses of HIV in the UK have fallen over a quarter between 2015 and 2018, according to Public Health England. The Government has proposed a new target to end HIV transmissions by 2030. The recent significant fall in new diagnoses of HIV has been attributed to several contributing factors.

It’s the STI unheard of by most people. Yet, if left untreated, Trichomoniasis can lead to health complications for both men and women. So why is nobody talking about it? Here we answer some commonly asked questions about this STI.

It’s 2019. We have freedom of speech, freedom of movement, and freedom to have consensual sex with whoever we want, whenever we want. So why does society still frown upon a positive STI result? With the rates for many STIs on the rise, Better2Know encourages everyone who may have been at risk to get tested. A positive STI result does not define you.

New data published by the Public Health Agency reported that cases of Gonorrhoea in Northern Ireland have reached a record high. Diagnoses increased 30% in 2018, with the majority found in men. This significant increase poses risks surrounding antibiotic resistance to the infection.

Sexual health isn’t often the topic of conversation with friends. So, let’s talk. Be wise when you are drinking alcohol. Not everyone around you is necessarily there for a good time. Recent research suggests that incidents of drink spiking in the UK have doubled in the last few years. This significant rise poses a risk to both you and your sexual health, so here are our top tips on how to stay safe.

Summer. What’s not to love? No doubt the party holiday you’ve been waiting for all year is just around the corner. It’s the season to forget about all our worries, but that often means forgetting about important things, too. Condoms. Drinking responsibly. It’s all part of the fun and games. Packing safe sex essentials in your toiletry bag is the answer to avoiding some of the biggest problems a fun-filled summer clubbing holiday can bring.