STI Information
STI Basics
In the United States during 2018, an estimated 26 million new sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are reported – Nearly half (45.5%) of all new STIs in the country occur among young people (ages 15-24). (1) This costs the U.S. healthcare systems about $16 billion per year. (2) With more than a dozen different STDs, several of which are chronic and life-long, it is essential to not only get tested regularly but to prevent these infections in the first place.
Incidence, Prevalence, and Cost of Sexually Transmitted Infections in the United States, last updated 2018What are STDs?
Sexually transmitted diseases are diseases passed from person to person during sexual activity (e.g., vaginal, oral and anal sex, outer-course or mutual masturbation). STDs can be transmitted through bodily fluids and, in some cases, skin-to-skin contact.
It is important to note that not everyone who has an STD will experience symptoms, which means the transmission to partners will occur without your knowledge. If you have an STD, you are always contagious and can spread the disease at any time, even if you are not experiencing symptoms.
What’s the difference between STDs and STIs?
The terms STD (sexually transmitted disease) and STI (sexually transmitted infection) are not interchangeable; there is a difference.
The term “STI” (sexually transmitted infection) describes the presence of an infection in the body, and may or may not be accompanied by symptoms. On the other hand, the term “STD” (sexually transmitted diseases) describes an infection that has caused damage in a person’s body — though, like STIs, an STD may or may not be accompanied by symptoms.
In general, an STI is the broader of the two terms. All STDs are STIs, though not all STIs become STDs.
STI Prevention
Condoms are not as effective as you might think when used to prevent sexually transmitted infections. Using a condom during sex can reduce the risk of spreading or contracting certain STIs, but a condom never eliminates the risk entirely. Some vaccinations exist for some STIs, but not all. The only sure way to avoid all sexually transmitted infections is to abstain from any sexual activity.
Facing the uncertainty of a sexually transmitted infection can be scary. If you think you may have an STI, schedule your appointment to talk to one of our certified counselors, who can then refer you to a testing center in your community. Just remember, no matter the diagnosis, you are never alone. Give us a call at (702) 710-0723 to receive additional STD information.
STI Treatment
Early detection is critical when it comes to treating STIs effectively. Some STIs are treatable and curable with medications; however, for some STIs, there is no cure. For those infections that are incurable, symptoms can still be managed by other drugs and treatments. Getting tested for an STI is easy and painless, and will ultimately benefit your health and safety.
This STD information is intended for education and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Incidence, Prevalence, and Cost of Sexually Transmitted Infections in the United States, last updated 2018Contact Us
Contact us to schedule an appointment if you think you may need to talk to someone, or you can register and login to our portal to make an schedule online.
During your appointment, we will provide you with additional STD information regarding common symptoms and treatment options.