Sexually transmitted infections (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 skin to skin contact, like genital warts.
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 not preventable if you are having sex. To reduce your risk, when you have sex, know how to protect yourself and your sexual partner from STIs.