Diseases & Related Conditions

What are STDs?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections or STIs, are very common. CDC estimates 20 million new infections occur every year in the United States.

STDs are passed for one person to another through sexual activity including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. They can also be passed from one person to another through intimate physical contact, such as heavy petting, though this is not very common.

STDs don’t always cause symptoms or may only cause mild symptoms, so it is possible to have an infection and not know it. That is why it is important to get tested if you are having sex. If you are diagnosed with an STD, know that all can be treated with medicine and some can be cured entirely.

STDs are preventable. If you have sex, you can lower your risk by using condoms and being in a sexual relationship with a partner who does not have an STD. Most STDs can be prevented by not having sex.

The diseases, conditions, and infections below are listed in alphabetical order.

Bacterial Vaginosis

Any woman can get bacterial vaginosis. Having bacterial vaginosis can increase your chance of getting an STD.

 

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can be easily cured. If left untreated, chlamydia can make it difficult for a woman to get pregnant.

 

Gonorrhea

Anyone who is sexually active can get gonorrhea. Gonorrhea can cause very serious complications when not treated, but can be cured with the right medication.

 

Hepatitis

Viral hepatitis is the leading cause of liver cancer and the most common reason for liver transplantation.

 

Herpes

Genital herpes is a common STD, and most people with genital herpes infection do not know they have it.

 

HIV/AIDS & STDs

People who have STDs are more likely to get HIV, when compared to people who do not have STDs.

 

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States. Some health effects caused by HPV can be prevented with vaccines.

 

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID)

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) can lead to serious consequences including infertility.

 

STDs & Infertility

Chlamydia and gonorrhea are preventable causes of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility.

 

STDs during Pregnancy

For a healthier baby, ask your doctor about STD testing.

 

Syphilis

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can have very serious complications when left untreated, but it is simple to cure with the right treatment.

 

Trichomoniasis

Most people who have trichomoniasis do not have any symptoms.

 

Other STDs

Chancroid, scabies, and more.