Getting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) isn’t something anyone wants, but it’s more common than you might think. In fact, over half of all people will experience an STI at some point in their lives. If you suspect you might have one, don’t panic. Although there’s stigma surrounding STIs, many are easily treatable. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about STIs, including testing, treatment options, and how to talk with your partner.
### STI vs. STD: What’s the Difference?
STD stands for sexually transmitted disease, but the term STI (sexually transmitted infection) is now more commonly used by healthcare providers. Here’s why: An infection happens when a virus, bacteria, or parasite enters the body and starts to multiply. A disease, on the other hand, occurs when that infection leads to noticeable symptoms. While some infections progress into diseases, most STIs don’t cause obvious symptoms. This makes STI a more accurate and less stigmatized term.
Labeling an STI as a “disease” can create unnecessary fear and hinder open conversations, testing, and safer sexual practices. Since many STIs don’t show symptoms right away—or at all—people can spread them unknowingly. Using less stigmatizing language helps encourage honesty and action.
### Why Is STI Testing Important?
The tricky thing about STIs is that you might not even realize you have one. Common STIs, like chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV, and herpes, can linger in your body without showing symptoms for days, weeks, or sometimes even years. That’s why regular testing is crucial if you’re sexually active. Testing protects not only you but also your partner(s), ensuring treatment starts as soon as possible if needed.
Untreated infections can lead to more serious health problems, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), cervical cancer, and fertility issues caused by damage to reproductive organs. To stay proactive, consider getting tested in the following situations:
– You have a new sexual partner.
– You’ve had unprotected sex.
– You think you might have an STI.
– You want a routine sexual health check.
– A condom broke during sex.
– You’re pregnant.
– You’re experiencing symptoms that could indicate an STI.
Testing can be done at home with an at-home test kit, at your healthcare provider’s office, or at a local clinic.
### Are Some Groups at Higher Risk for STIs?
Anyone who is sexually active can get an STI, but certain groups may be at higher risk. For instance, members of the LGBTQ+ community, particularly gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM), report higher rates of HIV and other STIs.
This increased risk stems from various factors, including certain sexual behaviors, like not using condoms consistently and engaging in anal sex, as well as societal influences like stigma, discrimination, and lack of access to inclusive healthcare. To reduce risks, it’s essential to have open discussions about your sexual history with your healthcare provider. They can offer tailored advice, including safe sex strategies, vaccines, and options like PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) to prevent HIV.
### Can STIs Be Cured?
Not all STIs are permanent, and many can be effectively treated with medications. Bacterial and parasitic STIs, in particular, can often be cured with antibiotics or other treatments. These include:
– Chlamydia
– Gonorrhea
– Pubic lice (crabs) and scabies
– Syphilis
– Trichomoniasis
For viral STIs, while they can’t always be completely cured, they can be managed with antiviral medications. These include:
– Hepatitis B and C
– Herpes (HSV)
– HIV/AIDS
– Human papillomavirus (HPV)
– Genital warts
Though viral STIs may be lifelong, modern treatments, such as antiretroviral therapy, are highly effective at controlling symptoms. With proper care, many people lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
### How to Talk to Your Partner About an STI
If you have an STI, there’s a chance your partner might have it too, even if they don’t have symptoms. While this might not be an easy conversation, it’s an important one. Choose a neutral, non-sexual setting to be open and honest. Stick to the facts and avoid assigning blame. Share information about next steps, including testing and treatment options.
If you’re uncomfortable having this conversation directly, your local health department may be able to notify partners anonymously. But ideally, the news should come from you. Remember, having an STI doesn’t make you “dirty” or a bad person. If your partner responds negatively, that’s a reflection of them, not you.
### Should You Get Retested?
After completing treatment, it’s a good idea to get retested after about three months to confirm the infection is gone and to check for possible reinfection. Regular testing is also a smart practice, even if you don’t experience symptoms or have a history of positive results. If you have new sexual partners, aim to get screened yearly.
### Protect Yourself Moving Forward
To prevent future STIs, use latex condoms and dental dams consistently, get tested regularly, and have open conversations about sexual history with current or potential partners before engaging in sexual activity. Ensure both you and your partner(s) are up to date on STI screenings.
If you’re diagnosed with an STI, it’s not the end of the world. With proper treatment and a prevention plan, you can take charge of your sexual health and continue living your life without fear. For any concerns or additional questions, reach out to your healthcare provider.