Sexually transmitted infections or STIs, are very common. Millions of new infections occur every year in the United States. STIs are passed from 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.

STIs 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 STI, know that all can be treated with medicine and some can be cured entirely.

STIs are preventable. If you have sex, know how to protect yourself and your sexual partner from STIs.

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 STI.


Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted disease (STI) 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 STI, and most people with genital herpes infection do not know they have it.


HIV/AIDS & STIs
People who have STIs are more likely to get HIV, when compared to people who do not have STIs.


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.


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


STIs during Pregnancy
For a healthier baby, ask your doctor about STI testing.


Syphilis
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STI) 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 STIs
Chancroid, scabies, and more.