Protecting Your Sexual Health: The Facts About Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexual health is an important part of your overall well-being—but it’s something many people don’t know enough about. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are widespread in the United States, and they can affect anyone, no matter their age or background. While teens and young adults still make up the largest group of new cases, STIs are rising among older adults, too. The good news? STIs often are preventable, treatable and, in some cases, avoidable with a vaccine.

STI vs. STD: What’s the Difference?

You might have heard both STI (sexually transmitted infection) and STD (sexually transmitted disease) used and wondered if the terms meant the same thing. While some define an STI as an infection and an STD as the resulting disease or symptoms, most public health organizations, including the CDC, use the term STI more frequently because many infections don’t cause immediate symptoms but still require attention. While there may be a technical distinction, the goal remains the same: to prevent, detect and treat infections early to avoid health complications.

Understanding Common STIs

STIs are primarily spread through vaginal, anal or oral sex, but transmission also can happen through skin-to-skin contact—particularly in the case of HPV and herpes. Some infections can be spread through blood, such as HIV or hepatitis B, and others, such as syphilis, can pass from mother to child during childbirth. Because many STIs don’t cause noticeable symptoms, individuals often spread infections without knowing it. That’s why routine screening and preventive practices are essential.

The most common STIs in the U.S. include:

• Chlamydia – A bacterial infection that often presents no symptoms but can lead to serious reproductive complications if untreated.
• Gonorrhea – A bacterial infection that can cause pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility and increased HIV risk.
• Syphilis – A bacterial infection that progresses through stages and can cause severe damage to the heart, brain and nervous system, if untreated.
• Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2) – A viral infection causing painful sores that can be managed with antiviral medication.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) – A virus that can cause genital warts and certain types of cancer.
• HIV/AIDS – A virus that weakens the immune system, making the body more vulnerable to infections and illnesses.
• Trichomoniasis – A parasitic infection, often with mild or no symptoms, that can cause irritation.

Signs and Symptoms of STIs

Not everyone with an STI experiences symptoms, but when they do appear, they may include:

• Unusual discharge from the vagina or penis
• Pain or burning during urination
• Itching, irritation or swelling in the genital or anal area
• Sores, bumps or warts near the genitals or mouth
• Pain during sex
• Flu-like symptoms (fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes)
• Vaginal odor
• Lower abdominal pain
• Rectal and testicular pain

Because many of these symptoms can be mistaken for other things—or might not appear at all—it’s important to get tested regularly if you’re sexually active.

Why Some STIs Are So Common

There are a few key reasons why STIs are so widespread:

• Many people are unaware they have an infection, as symptoms can be mild or nonexistent.
• Some people don’t get tested regularly, especially if they think they’re not at risk.
• Stigma and embarrassment can prevent people from asking questions or consulting a healthcare provider.
• Condoms aren’t used consistently, especially in long-term relationships or later in life.
• Antibiotic resistance is making some STIs, such as gonorrhea, harder to treat.

Even when people mean to be careful, STIs can still spread. That’s why awareness, testing and prevention are so important.

Who’s Most Affected by STIs?

Young people between the ages of 15 and 24 account for nearly half of all new STI cases in the U.S. each year. This is due to a combination of factors, including higher rates of new or multiple partners, limited access to sexual health education and lower rates of regular testing. Condom use among this age group is often inconsistent, and stigma around seeking care can be a barrier.

STIs also are becoming more common among older adults, particularly those 55 and older. Longer lifespans, increased sexual activity and the rise of dating later in life have all contributed to this trend. Older adults may be less likely to use condoms—since pregnancy is no longer a concern—and many are not routinely screened for STIs during regular medical checkups. There also may be a lack of updated sexual health education among this group, leading to missed opportunities for prevention.

Risk Factors for STIs

Certain factors can increase your risk of getting an STI, including:

• Having unprotected sex
• Having multiple sexual partners
• Being under 25 years old
• Having a partner who has other partners
• Having sex with sex workers
• Sharing needles or drug equipment
• Having another infection that affects your immune system, such as HIV
• Having sex with someone who has or has recently had an STI

It’s essential to understand your risk—not to feel ashamed, but so you can take proactive steps to protect your health.

What Happens When STIs Are Left Untreated?

If not diagnosed and treated early, STIs can lead to serious health complications. Untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause infertility, chronic pelvic pain and increased risk of ectopic pregnancy. Syphilis can damage the heart, brain and nervous system. HPV can lead to several types of cancer, and HIV, if unmanaged, severely weakens the immune system. Some infections also can be passed to newborns, resulting in life-threatening health problems. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent these outcomes and reduce the risk of spreading the infection to others.

Treatment Options for STIs

The good news is that many STIs are treatable—and some are entirely curable. The key is to get tested early, and follow your treatment plan.

Bacterial infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea and syphilis are usually treated with antibiotics. Once treated, these infections are typically cured, though it’s essential to finish all prescribed medication—even if symptoms go away—and avoid sexual activity until your doctor says it’s safe.

Viral infections, such as herpes, HIV, and hepatitis B, cannot be cured, but they can be managed with medications that reduce symptoms, lower the risk of transmission and protect your long-term health. With proper care, many individuals with these conditions can lead full and healthy lives.

Parasitic infections, such as trichomoniasis, are usually cured with a single dose of prescription medication.

It’s also important for your partner(s) to be tested and treated, if needed, to prevent reinfection or further spread. After treatment, your healthcare provider may recommend a follow-up test to ensure the infection has cleared.

Don't self-diagnose or rely on home remedies—STIs require medical evaluation and proper treatment. If you’ve been diagnosed with an STI, don’t be afraid or ashamed. Getting the care you need is the best step you can take for yourself and your partner(s).

The HPV Vaccine: A Powerful Tool for Prevention

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is one of the most common—and preventable—STIs. While many strains clear up on their own, some high-risk types are responsible for nearly all cases of cervical cancer and also are linked to cancers of the throat, anus and penis. Fortunately, the HPV vaccine offers strong protection against these high-risk strains.

The vaccine is recommended for preteens, aged 11–12, but can be given as early as aged nine. It’s most effective when administered before exposure to the virus, but individuals up to aged 26 are strongly encouraged to receive it if they haven’t already. In some cases, adults up to aged 45 also may benefit from the vaccine, depending on their health history and risk factors. Even if you've already been exposed to one strain of HPV, the vaccine may still protect you from others.

The HPV vaccine is safe, effective and a key component of cancer prevention. If you're unsure whether it's right for you or your child, talk to your healthcare provider to weigh the benefits.

Protecting Your Sexual Health: Prevention Tips

Regardless of age, taking proactive steps to protect your sexual health is essential. The only way to completely prevent an STI is to abstain from sexual activity. Here are some ways to reduce your risk of getting one:

• Get tested regularly – Routine STI screenings help catch infections early when they’re easiest to treat.
• Use protection – Condoms and other barrier methods are effective in reducing the risk of STI transmission.
• Limit your number of sexual partners – Fewer partners means a lower chance of exposure to STIs.
• Consider a mutually monogamous relationship – Being in a relationship where both partners are in sexual contact only with each other can significantly reduce your risk.
• Talk to your doctor about the HPV vaccine – It’s not just for teens—adults may benefit, too, and it’s never too late to ask.

Final Thoughts

STIs are common, but they don’t have to be inevitable. With regular testing, honest communication and preventive tools, such as the HPV vaccine, you can take control of your sexual health at any age.

If you have questions about symptoms, testing or prevention, or if you’re considering the HPV vaccine, schedule an appointment with a healthcare provider at Southwest General. We’re here to support your health and answer your questions without judgment because protecting your well-being is what matters most.