Before you start the service you need to check the client for any noticeable signs of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This needs to be done before they go to the toilet or have a shower , under a strong light.
Where to look
- Lift the client's penis and have a good look around the genital area. Hold the penis firmly at the base with one hand and gently milk it upwards with the other.
- Lift his balls and pull back his foreskin.
- Look between the area of his anus and penis.
- Look around the anal area.
- Through pubic hair.
- For a female client, look between vaginal lips.
What to look for
- Sores, blisters, rashes, and warts.
- Itching, redness, swollen glands, unpleasant odour.
- Discharge. A clear discharge is normal but any blood or pus is not.
- Crabs (pubic lice).
- Look over mouth and lips for blisters and sores, especially if you kiss your clients.
Adapted from the STD Handbook, published by ANCAHRD.
If you have any doubts, don’t be worried about calling in another worker to take a look.
Remember that not all sexually transmitted infections have visible symptoms, which is why it is important to use a condom, and have regular sexual health check-ups.
Examples of what to look for
Remember that in all pictures like these, the symptoms shown are a severe case. Clients are likely to have less noticable symptoms.
Genital warts
Warts on penis.
Warts on pubic hair area.
Warts around anus.
Gonorrhoea
Discharge from penis.
Herpes
Blisters, sores and scabs on penis.
Molluscum Contagiosum
"Waxy pimple-like" lesions on skin.
Lesion on eye area.
Pubic lice
Public lice on skin.
Public lice on eyelashes.
Public lice parasite under microscope.
Scabies
Scabies on and around genital area.
Scabies parasite under microscope.
Syphilis
Syphilis chancre on penis.
Thrush
Fungal infection on penis.
Pictures from AFAO STI campaign.
What to do if you find something that looks like an STI
- Remember that the client may not realise they have an STI, so try not to get too upset with them.
- Try to get a co-worker to back you up, especially if your client thinks they're "clean".
- Recommend that the client gets tested and treated before coming back. They can get tested for free at the Canberra Sexual Health Centre.