About Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

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 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 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.

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. PID and “silent” infection in the upper genital tract may cause permanent damage to the fallopian tubes, uterus, and surrounding tissues, which can lead to infertility.

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.

If you get an 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 an STD also can put you at greater risk for getting HIV.

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.

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. STIs can complicate pregnancy and may have serious effects on pregnant persons and their developing baby.

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.

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 (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 (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.