What are Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs or STDs)?

Sexually Transmitted Infections are infections transmitted through sexual contact. One in five Americans have STIs, but many don't know because most STIs are asymptomatic.

Basics About STIs

STI Frequency

One in five Americans have an STI, and many of these people don't know because STIs are asymptomatic

Eight Most Common STIs

Syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, hepatitis B, herpes simplex virus (HSV), HIV and human papillomavirus (HPV)

Transmission Routes

STIs are transmitted blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or other body fluids, during oral, anal, or genital sex with an infected partner.

Common Symptoms of STIs Include...

  • Sores or bumps in genital, oral, and rectal areas
  • Pain during urination or unusal discharges
  • No symptoms at all

If you have any of these symptoms or suspect you have an STI, get tested.

When left untreated, STIs can lead to...

Cancer

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) if left untreated can cause certain cancers, include anal cancer, cervical cancer, oropharyngeal cancer, penile cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer.

Reproductive Damage

Untreated STIs, including Chlamydia and Gonorrhea, can lead to damage of the reproductive system.

Damage to other organs, including the brain

Syphillis and HIV can lead to brain damage if untreated. Other STDs, such as Gonorrhea and Chlamydia, can damage other organs, including the liver if untreated.

So... How can I prevent STIs?

Getting Tested Regularly

If you have multiple sexual partners and are sexually active, you should get tested every 3 months.

Use Condoms

Condoms can prevent the transmission of STIs in both anal sex and oral sex (as an oral barrier).

Utilize PrEP or PEP to Prevent HIV

Pre-Exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and Post-Exposure prophylaxis (PEP) are two drugs used to prevent HIV. PrEP is taken to prevent HIV in case you are exposed to the virus. PEP is taken within 72 hours after a potential exposure to prevent HIV infection.

Get Vaccinated for HPV

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccinations can prevent genital warts and cancers, including throat, cervical, and anal cancer caused by HPV