Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are generally acquired through sexual contact. STIs are usually spread through the sex of the penis and vagina, but they can also be transmitted through anal sex, oral sex and, rarely, open-mouth kissing. STDs can be passed on from one person to another through vaginal, oral and anal sex, as well as through intimate physical contact such as intense caresses. It is possible to have an infection and not know it, as STDs don't always cause symptoms or can only cause mild symptoms.
Anyone who has sexual contact with another person is at risk of contracting an STI. Some STIs cause symptoms and others don't. A person with an STI can transmit it to others through contact with the skin, genitals, mouth, rectum, or body fluids. This includes contact through vaginal sex, anal sex, or oral sex.
Without treatment, STDs can cause serious health problems. But the good news is that getting tested isn't a big deal and most STDs are easy to treat. There's nothing like enjoying sex without worrying about sexually transmitted diseases or pregnancy. Using condoms, talking openly with your partner, and getting tested regularly is the way to do this. When it comes to sexually transmitted diseases, there's no single test you can take to check them all.
But that doesn't mean getting tested is difficult. Read more about STD testing to learn what to expect. Even if there are no symptoms, your health may be affected. Because many people in the early stages of an STD or STI don't have symptoms, screening for STIs is important to prevent complications. STD stands for sexually transmitted disease, which is a disease transmitted through sexual behavior, such as vaginal intercourse, oral sex, anal sex, or sometimes intimate skin-to-skin contact.
Some STDs are curable, while others have no cure and if you get one of those it can stay with you for the rest of your life. Not 100%, but if used correctly every time, condoms are a great way to protect yourself from STDs that are transmitted through body fluids such as semen or vaginal secretions. When doctors or nurses ask this question they actually ask you if you've done anything since your last checkup that could have exposed you to an STD or pregnancy.
