Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), or sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact.
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How common are STDs?
STDs are very common. Key health statistics:
- More than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired every day worldwide, the majority of which are asymptomatic.
- Each year there are an estimated 374 million new infections with 1 of 4 STIs: chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis and trichomoniasis.
- More than 500 million people aged 15 to 49 years are estimated to have a genital infection with herpes simplex virus (HSV).
- HPV infection is associated with 570 000 cases of cervical cancer in 2018, and over 311 000 cervical cancer deaths each year.
- Almost 1 million pregnant women were estimated to be infected with syphilis in 2016, resulting in over 350 000 adverse birth outcomes including 200 000 stillbirths and newborn deaths.
How are STDs transmitted?
STDs pass from one person to another through vaginal, oral, and anal sex. They also can spread through intimate physical contact like heavy petting, though this is not very common. Some STIs can also be transmitted from mother-to-child during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding.
What are the common STDs?
More than 30 different bacteria, viruses and parasites may be transmitted through sexual contact. Eight of these pathogens are most common. Of these, 4 are currently curable: syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis. The other 4 are viral infections which are incurable: hepatitis B, herpes simplex virus (HSV or herpes), HIV and human papillomavirus (HPV).
Some of the common STDs include
Bacterial Vaginosis
BV is a common, treatable, vaginal condition which can increase your chance of getting an STD.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a common, but treatable, STD. If left untreated, chlamydia can make it difficult for a woman to get pregnant.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a common STD that can be treated with the right medication. If left untreated, gonorrhea can cause very serious health problems.
Hepatitis
Herpes
Genital herpes is a common STD, but most people with the infection do not know they have it. While there is no cure, there are medicines available that can prevent or shorten outbreaks. These medicines also can make it less likely to pass the infection on.
HIV/AIDS & STDs
People who have STDs are more likely to get HIV, when compared to people who do not have STDs.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection
HPV is the most common STI in the United States, but most people with the infection have no symptoms. HPV can cause some health effects that are preventable with vaccines.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)
PID can lead to serious consequences including infertility.
STDs & Infertility
Chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause PID and infertility, but both are preventable.
STDs during Pregnancy
For a healthier baby, ask your doctor about STD testing.
Syphilis
Syphilis can have very serious problems when left untreated. It is simple to cure with the right treatment.
Trichomoniasis
Most people who have trichomoniasis do not have any symptoms.
Other STDs
Chancroid, scabies, and more.
What are the symptoms of STDs?
STDs don’t always cause symptoms or may only cause mild symptoms. So it is possible to have an infection and not know it. But you can still pass it on to others.
If there are symptoms, they could include:
- Unusual discharge from the penis or vagina
- Sores or warts on the genital area
- Painful or frequent urination
- Itching and redness in the genital area
- Blisters or sores in or around the mouth
- Abnormal vaginal odor
- Anal itching, soreness, or bleeding
- Abdominal pain
- Fever
STIs have direct impact on sexual and reproductive health through stigmatization, infertility, cancers and pregnancy complications and can increase the risk of HIV.
How are STDs diagnosed?
Some STDs may be diagnosed during a physical exam or through microscopic examination of a sore or fluid swabbed (culture and PCR tests)from the vagina, penis, or anus. Blood tests can diagnose other types of STDs.
What are the treatments for STDs?
Antibiotics can treat STDs caused by bacteria or parasites. There is no cure for STDs caused by viruses, but medicines can often help with the symptoms and lower your risk of spreading the infection.
Drug resistance, especially for gonorrhoea, is a major threat to reducing the burden of STIs worldwide.
How You Can Prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases
STDs are preventable. If you have sex, know how to protect yourself and your sex partner(s) from STDs.
Abstinence
The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have sex (i.e., anal, vaginal or oral).
Vaccination
Vaccines are safe, effective, and recommended ways to prevent hepatitis B and HPV.
HPV vaccination is recommended for preteens ages 11 or 12 (or can start at age 9) and everyone through age 26, if not vaccinated already. Vaccination is not recommended for everyone older than age 26 years. HPV vaccination in this age provides less benefit as more people have already been exposed to HPV. You should also get vaccinated for hepatitis B
Reduce Number of Sex Partners
Reducing your number of sex partners can decrease your risk for STDs. It is still important that you and your partner get tested, and that you share your test results with one another.
Mutual Monogamy
Mutual monogamy means that you agree to be sexually active with only one person, who has agreed to be sexually active only with you. Being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner is one of the most reliable ways to avoid STDs. But you must both be certain you are not infected with STDs. It is important to have an open and honest conversation with your partner.
Use Condoms
Correct and consistent use of the male latex condom
is highly effective in reducing STD transmission. Use a condom every time you have anal, vaginal, or oral sex.
If you have latex allergies, synthetic non-latex condoms can be used. But it is important to note that these condoms have higher breakage rates than latex condoms. Natural membrane condoms are not recommended for STD prevention.
Put Yourself to the Test
Knowing your STD status is a critical step to stopping STD transmission
If you know you are infected you can take steps to protect yourself and your partners.
If either you or your partner is infected, both of you need to receive treatment at the same time to avoid getting re-infected.
The Right Way To Use A Male (External) Condom
Which STD Tests Should I Get?
If you are sexually active, getting tested for STDs is one of the most important things you can do to protect your health. Make sure you have an open and honest conversation about your sexual history and STD testing with your doctor and ask whether you should be tested for STDs.
Below is a brief overview of STD testing recommendations.
- All adults and adolescents from ages 13 to 64 should be tested at least once for HIV.
- All sexually active women younger than 25 years should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year. Women 25 years and older with risk factors such as new or multiple sex partners or a sex partner who has an STD should also be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia every year.
- Everyone who is pregnant should be tested for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C starting early in pregnancy. Those at risk for infection should also be tested for chlamydia and gonorrhea starting early in pregnancy. Repeat testing may be needed in some cases.
- All sexually active gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men should be tested:
- At least once a year for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Those who have multiple or anonymous partners should be tested more frequently (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).
- At least once a year for HIV and may benefit from more frequent HIV testing (e.g., every 3 to 6 months).
- At least once a year for hepatitis C, if living with HIV.
- Anyone who engages in sexual behaviors that could place them at risk for infection or shares injection drug equipment should get tested for HIV at least once a year.
- People who have had oral or anal sex should talk with their healthcare provider about throat and rectal testing options.