STI’s: Common Symptoms & The Importance of Routine Testing
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) affect millions of Americans every year. Because many cases cause no—or very mild—symptoms, infections often spread silently. Routine screening, safer-sex practices, and prompt treatment can protect both your health and your partners’.
Below, you’ll find a practical guide to the most common STIs, how to recognize them, and when to book your next test.
What Are Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?
STIs (sometimes called STDs) are infections passed primarily through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Bacteria, viruses, or parasites enter mucous membranes or microscopic skin tears, then multiply—sometimes without causing immediate symptoms.
Untreated infections can lead to infertility, organ damage, or systemic disease, making early detection essential.
Why Routine STI Testing Matters
Even when you feel fine, routine STI testing helps:
Detect silent infections early. Up to 80 % of chlamydia and 50 % of gonorrhea cases have no symptoms.
Prevent long-term complications. Rapid treatment reduces risks such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and HIV transmission.
Break the chain of spread. Knowing your status lets you inform partners, seek treatment together, and prevent reinfection.
The CDC advises testing every 3–6 months if you have new, multiple, or anonymous partners, and at least once a year for HIV.
Common STIs You Should Know
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
How it spreads: Skin-to-skin sexual contact (vaginal, anal, oral).
Key fact: The HPV vaccine, given ideally at ages 11–12 and up to age 26, prevents most high-risk strains that cause cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers.
Chlamydia
Symptoms: Often none; may include abnormal discharge or burning urination.
Why it matters: Untreated infection can scar fallopian tubes or inflame the epididymis, leading to infertility.
Gonorrhea
Who’s at risk: Highest rates in people aged 15–24.
Sites of infection: Genitals, rectum, throat, and (rarely) eyes.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Early signs: Flu-like illness 2–4 weeks after exposure—or none at all.
Management: Lifelong antiretroviral therapy can suppress the virus to undetectable, non-transmissible levels.
Other notable STIs include syphilis, genital herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2), and trichomoniasis—each with distinct testing and treatment protocols.
Recognizing STI Symptoms
Seek testing if you notice:
Bumps, ulcers, or rashes on or around the genitals, anus, or mouth
Unusual vaginal or penile discharge
Pain or burning while urinating
Genital itching or new odors
Pelvic pain or bleeding between periods
Remember: absence of symptoms does not guarantee you are infection-free.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, October 18). CDC - STD Diseases & Related Conditions. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved December 11, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/std/general/default.htm
CDC. (2022, April 12). Std Facts - Human papillomavirus (HPV). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved December 12, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/stdfact-hpv.htm
CDC. (2021, December 14). Which STD tests should I get? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved December 12, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/std/prevention/screeningreccs.htm
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