---
title: "The STI Project: Helpful Resources for Living with STIs"
date: 2019-09-08T03:00:00-04:00
author: OBOS Admin
canonical_url: "https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/the-sti-project-helpful-resources-for-living-with-stis"
section: Resources
---
[Donate](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/donate)

[Health & Sexuality Info](/health-info)# The STI Project: Helpful Resources for Living with STIs

A clearinghouse of resources on STI prevention, harm reduction, what to do when/if you have an STI, and more. It includes information on STIs, statistics on infection rates, global STI testing resources and locations, and options for online and offline community support.

> Learn how you can become a confident and empowered person who is living with an STI through overcoming shame, dismantling stigma, and reclaiming your narrative!

[View the site ](https://thestiproject.com/)

SOURCE: The STI Project

![Testalize me ap I Lr Be WPM unsplash scaled jpg](data:image/png;base64,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) Testalize.me/Unsplash

![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)Topics

- [ sexualities, gender, and relationships](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/subject-area/sexualities-gender-relationships)
- [ sex education](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/themes/sex-education)
- [bodily autonomy](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/bodily-autonomy)
- [boundaries](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/boundaries)
- [consent](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/consent)
- [shame](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/shame)
- [sexually transmitted infections (STIs)](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/sexually-transmitted-infections-stis)
- [support](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/tags/support)

![](/assets/img/monogram.webp)### *Why You Can* **Trust Us** 

- We rigorously evaluate all content
- We embrace a reproductive justice framework
- We don’t accept ads or sell products
- We reject funding from the pharmaceutical industry
- We counter misinformation and disinformation
- We address the social, political, and economic factors that affect health and sexuality

[read more](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/why-you-can-trust-us)

Share

[](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();)[](javascript:void();)

##### More to Explore

[Stories & ConversationsRead

## What It's Really Like Living with a Sexually Transmitted Infection

Jenelle shares her story of living with an STI and how she went from devastated and embarrassed to empowered.

![Jenelle-Marie-Pierce](data:image/png;base64,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)

Jenelle shares her story of living with an STI and how she went from devastated and embarrassed to empowered.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-what-its-really-like-living-with-a-sexually-transmitted-infection)

[ResourcesRead

## Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common type of vaginal infection.

![Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)](data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAACAAAAAgCAIAAAD8GO2jAAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAD9ElEQVRIiXWWa47kOAyDP8qZ7r7hAnv/S2zFEueH5FTNAFswApdji9SLsV7//IvEr4uvL36++fnRzw8/3/x88/3Fry+ui2sRgbDBRRU7vTf75nVz37x68vJrszf3JpMs7KB/fj8NH4sG4x6fO3qd//kLgAAuPLPz2tg22PJjupcAU8ZF9eSP5wH3Ma8GMBbmTdNzxn2yjAyFNK+yXEUVmfSkzk5/RkCoPXhM16H8PlNUIexADNlKdrKTPKMOZB360keIijb3ptymM4lAiSE8Aez1TPbmTvY+YPXphGkAXS4TjB9jt1xFFlkoAcJIByCVxd4z7s3ebpjGmGQICXyNU4e482BksXPsxsmwrUxnh2izt/6wXlSb1xSN1AAa02mqnCbLmYT6FdH0UZUr2anjwVivIh/uHR+dJBfGpFn2B3dHIGGoOPGZyhnW99ZOcr8jY5CsaGaWUOcAUFu3084iy7sgMVapC7Tq1E9b396bTGUN8wgrWIOEwp8AlF3lqgGIBGwjGTT1M1nVvX1v7U3WSaq8FgsrCJo+igubwgPw4YHSXTYStqtUxd7cN/fmdeve3psqmu9aGBOE7ZOG8UA4DkBNjVoy+qv8fW/dN68Xr5t7s1NZCGL5MshRf6X6GgXxAzAwlIywDOq2aPqvm/+OfHb9SFyFcSzKLh5VQlyNN/LWvwMDZQvssjK9U3dyb157MHZOERtiOYuqMdVZQdeo8PR3y+YAccB5GjuPCu2kwWxWEEEOebeh48NVR/gevX8w3gCfo96trrRtYapwPdyODcCXR7d7I+iIt9QFOj35ocBIlp5lPy+Hto+0uQE8GG36nPesdHxFBBE9cYRWsMJluQjN10Un+j4A9lUBgsDPUzhkiRAKbAgv46CWc+nXopbrknBJElcQ8w04em1cmKs0ANN+IUIOseQIFABRCGF3Atyhx0vKsmAFS8Qjo4bqWF+OE58QAWNaRHR5GHBIeWJ92ijgljMFhLiCpSdQHx60a42/NFFewRqA1lSHniC8CS0po7VAqzPUJEqu9uR40NxDrGfEuQ51VR2wKQSakPdWl39IEe2B3AIH9ZFkOuAD83iwPj47NW8FerNxprpRQ4TaYVxd408OJr2zKeKNoZgLS4XfFam33ylXyTZWTJLVfXcA9A5RSCs6yVrBWgMAruL0xzSUPO1WSVVfm1D7O1svD5fBUMiS2v3TWdPS3Rx6blbvdiWN6LC4Q2N6enV/9eeh2SnkkKTJW8MA1QdbaYpauHqIMKaE2j7TB2oA2rrU+iOkU5Tdd9Nu7vL0Cmp5FRWsoAKHXENCI/ySba4p6ucG3Nbn0vE5WmUCm/qA72edbGga8VyM/Btp/oCKQ0tPVgAAAABJRU5ErkJggg==)

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common type of vaginal infection.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/bacterial-vaginosis-bv)

[ResourcesRead

## What Is Herpes?

Herpes (Herpes Simplex Virus of HSV) is a virus that appears in the form of sores on the mouth or genitals.

![Illustration by Valentina Valle Rojo from Pussypedia.](data:image/png;base64,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)

Herpes (Herpes Simplex Virus of HSV) is a virus that appears in the form of sores on the mouth or genitals.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/what-is-herpes)

[Stories & ConversationsWatch

## Dealing with the Stigmatization of Sexuality

SA shares how gaps in her sex education curriculum growing up failed to prepare her for sex. She discusses her desire for sex-positive sex education.

![Steph](data:image/png;base64,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)

SA shares how gaps in her sex education curriculum growing up failed to prepare her for sex. She discusses her desire for sex-positive sex education.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-dealing-with-the-stigmatization-of-sexuality)

[ResourcesRead

## A Disabled Person's Guide to Talking With Your Partner(s) About Sex

Disabled writer Carrie Kaufman created this excellent guide for disabled people who want help communicating sexually with their partners.

![Pexels judita tamosiunaite 2026764 scaled jpg](data:image/png;base64,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)

Disabled writer Carrie Kaufman created this excellent guide for disabled people who want help communicating sexually with their partners.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/a-disabled-persons-guide-to-talking-with-your-partners-about-sex)

[Stories & ConversationsWatch

## Dealing with Mental Health Issues

MB describes her struggle coming to terms with mental health issues. She shares how her parents hindered her from getting help, but her friends supported her.

![Marisa](data:image/png;base64,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)

MB describes her struggle coming to terms with mental health issues. She shares how her parents hindered her from getting help, but her friends supported her.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-dealing-with-mental-health-issues)

[Stories & ConversationsWatch

## Dealing with Infertility

ES describes her journey of infertility as she and her husband tried to get pregnant and a painful procedure with a male doctor while seeking a diagnosis.

![Elena](data:image/png;base64,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)

ES describes her journey of infertility as she and her husband tried to get pregnant and a painful procedure with a male doctor while seeking a diagnosis.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/stories-conversations/my-story-dealing-with-infertility)

[ResourcesRead

## Letting Go of Survival Mode

Survival mode is a natural response to chronic stress. But it does not allow us to think, grow, or flourish.

![Mature woman meditating with her eyes closed and her hands in prayer position. Black woman with dreadlocks practicing yoga in a studio. Happy middle-aged woman maintaining a healthy lifestyle.](data:image/png;base64,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)

Survival mode is a natural response to chronic stress. But it does not allow us to think, grow, or flourish.](https://ourbodiesourselves.org/health-info/letting-go-of-survival-mode)