Learn about sexually transmitted infections, how they spread, common symptoms, prevention, testing, and when to seek medical care.
These Infections Can Be Transmitted Through Sexual Contact
Sexual health is an important part of overall health, but many sexually transmitted infections can spread without causing obvious symptoms. A person may feel completely healthy while still carrying an infection and potentially passing it to a partner.
Understanding how these infections spread can help people make informed decisions and seek testing or treatment when necessary.
What Are Sexually Transmitted Infections?
Sexually transmitted infections, commonly called STIs, are infections that can spread through sexual contact. They may be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.
Some commonly known STIs include:
- Chlamydia
- Gonorrhea
- Syphilis
- Trichomoniasis
- Genital herpes
- Human papillomavirus (HPV)
- HIV
- Hepatitis B
Different infections spread in different ways, and not every STI produces noticeable symptoms.
Some STIs Have No Symptoms
One of the most important things to understand about sexual infections is that having no symptoms does not necessarily mean you don’t have an infection.
Some people may experience symptoms such as unusual genital discharge, burning during urination, genital sores, itching, pelvic pain, or pain during sex. Others may have no noticeable symptoms at all.
This is one reason testing can be important for people who may have been exposed.
How Can They Spread?
Depending on the infection, transmission can occur through vaginal, anal, or oral sexual contact. Some infections can also spread through skin-to-skin contact involving an infected area.
Certain infections, such as HIV and hepatitis B, can also be transmitted through infected blood or other specific forms of exposure.
The exact transmission risk depends on the infection and the type of contact involved.
How Can You Reduce Your Risk?
There are several ways to lower the likelihood of acquiring or transmitting an STI.
Use Barrier Protection
Condoms and other barrier methods can significantly reduce the risk of many sexually transmitted infections when used correctly and consistently. They do not provide complete protection against every infection, particularly those spread through uncovered skin.
Consider Testing
STI testing can be especially important after a new sexual partner, unprotected sexual contact, or a situation in which exposure may have occurred.
Testing recommendations vary according to age, sexual history, pregnancy status, symptoms, and individual risk factors.
Vaccination Can Help
Vaccines are available for some infections that can be sexually transmitted, including HPV and hepatitis B.
Ask a healthcare professional whether these vaccinations are appropriate for you.
What If You Think You’ve Been Exposed?
Don’t panic and don’t rely on symptoms alone.
Contact a healthcare professional or sexual health clinic and explain what happened. They can determine whether testing is appropriate and advise you about the timing of tests and any necessary treatment.
Some infections can be cured with medication, while others can be managed effectively but may remain in the body.
If you develop severe symptoms, significant pelvic or abdominal pain, genital sores, fever, or other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.
Protecting Your Partner Matters Too
If you are diagnosed with an STI, follow your healthcare professional’s instructions about treatment and sexual activity.
Depending on the infection, your partner may also need testing or treatment. Avoiding sexual contact until a healthcare professional says it is safe can help prevent transmission.
The Bottom Line
Sexually transmitted infections are common, and many are preventable or treatable. The most important steps are understanding how infections spread, using appropriate protection, getting tested when necessary, and seeking medical advice after a possible exposure.
If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to an STI, getting professional medical advice and appropriate testing is much more reliable than trying to identify an infection based on symptoms alone.