About Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

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What are STIs?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections or STIs, are very common. Millions of new infections occur every year in the United States.

STIs are passed from one person to another through sexual activity including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. They can also be passed from one person to another through intimate physical contact, such as heavy petting, though this is not very common.

STIs don't always cause symptoms or may only cause mild symptoms, so it is possible to have an infection and not know it. That is why it is important to get tested if you are having sex. If you are diagnosed with a STI, know that all can be treated with medicine, and some can be cured entirely.

STIs are preventable. If you have sex, know how to protect yourself and your sexual partner from STIs.

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Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common STI that can be easily cured. If left untreated, chlamydia can make it difficult for an individual to get pregnant.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a STI that can infect anyone. It can cause infections in the genitals, rectum, and throat. It is a very common infection, especially among young people ages 15-24 years.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Pelvic inflammatory disease is an infection of a woman's reproductive organs. It is a complication often caused by some STIs, including chlamydia and gonorrhea. Other infections that are not sexually transmitted can also cause PID.

STIs & Infertility

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are important preventable causes of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility. Untreated, about 10-15% of women with chlamydia will develop PID.

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Syphilis

Syphilis is a STI that can cause serious health problems if it is not treated. Syphilis is divided into stages (primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary). There are different signs and symptoms associated with each stage.

HIV/AIDS & STIs

If you get a STD, you are more likely to get HIV than someone who is STD-free. This is because the same behaviors and circumstances that may put you at risk for getting a STD also can put you at greater risk for getting HIV.

STIs & Oral Sex

Many STIs can be spread through oral sex. Using a condom, dental dam, or other barrier method every time you have oral sex can reduce the risk of giving or getting an STI.

STIs & Pregnancy

Individuals who are pregnant can become infected with the same STIs as those who are not pregnant. Pregnant persons should ask their doctors about getting tested for STIs, since some doctors do not routinely perform these tests.

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Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is a common STI that any sexually active person can get. Most people with the virus don't have symptoms. Even without signs of the disease, herpes can still be spread to sex partners.

Human papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is the most common STI. There are many different types of HPV. Some types can cause health problems including genital warts and cancers. But there are vaccines that can stop these health problems from happening.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis (or "trich") is a very common STI. It is caused by infection with a protozoan parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Although symptoms of the disease vary, most people who have the parasite cannot tell they are infected.

Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition that happens when there is too much of certain bacteria in the vagina. This changes the normal balance of bacteria in the vagina.