The World Health Organization defines sexual health as a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality. While there are many important aspects to sexual health, the Wauwatosa Health Department’s primary role in promoting sexual health is surveillance, education, and prevention regarding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) including syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HIV/AIDS.
If you are concerned about informing a partner(s) of a STI, contact a Wauwatosa Health Department nurse at (414) 479-8939. You can speak confidentially with a nurse and ask for assistance in anonymously notifying partner(s) of exposure.
If you have questions, comments or would like more information about STIs in Wauwatosa you can email [email protected] or call the Information and Referral line at (414) 479-8939.
STI Resources
An STI is a sexually transmitted infection (also known as an STD) that is spread through intimate physical contact from one person to another. STIs are transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. STIs are common. It is estimated that 1 in 2 sexually active people will have an STI at some point.
STIs are common, especially among adolescents and young adults. Nurses at the Wauwatosa Health Department aim to connect young people with the care and treatment they need.
- Abstinence is the only way to completely avoid an STI
- Get tested routinely and with each new partner
- Have frequent and open conversations with your partner(s)
- Use PrEP and PEP
- Get vaccinated for HPV
- Practice mutual monogamy
- Use condoms with vaginal, anal, and oral sex
- Know your partner’s STI status before having sex
Learn more about prevention from the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
The answer depends on your particular circumstances. View these recommendations from the CDC.
Find an STI testing site in Milwaukee County or use the CDC testing site finder. The Wauwatosa Health Department does not offer STI testing.
If you are concerned about informing a partner(s) of a STI, contact a Wauwatosa Health Department nurse at 414-479-8939. You can speak confidentially with a nurse and ask for assistance in anonymously notifying partner(s) of exposure.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that can cause serious health problems without treatment. Infection develops in stages (primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary). Each stage can have different signs and symptoms. The only way to be sure you don’t have syphilis is through testing.
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is the most commonly reported communicable disease in Wisconsin. It can cause permanent damage to a woman’s reproductive system. This can make it difficult or impossible to get pregnant later. Chlamydia can also cause a potentially fatal ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy that occurs outside the womb). Chlamydia often has no symptoms but can still cause damage.
Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium called Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can be found in the genitals, rectum, and throat. It is the second most commonly reported STD in the state.
- Free condoms and lubricant are available anonymously at the Wauwatosa Health Department (7725 W. North Ave)
- Call our Information and Referral Line at (414) 479-8939 with any sexual health questions, for assistance in finding an STI testing center, or to speak confidentially and ask for assistance in anonymously notifying partner(s) of exposure.
- Health Department staff follow up with and provide confidential education for Wauwatosa residents who are known to have or are suspected of having an STI which includes, (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis).