Frequently Asked Questions About Sexually Transmitted Diseases
What does "STD" mean?
STD is short for "sexually transmitted disease." Another term you may have heard is "venereal disease," or VD.
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What is the difference between "STD" and "STI"?
STD is short for sexually transmitted disease. STI is short for sexually transmitted infection. They are synonymous; STI is the latest accepted terminology.
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What is the difference between bacterial and viral STDs?
The main difference between these two categories of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is what causes them - bacterial STDs are caused by bacteria and viral STDs are caused by viruses. As a result of being caused by different microorganisms, bacterial and viral STDs vary in their treatment. Bacterial STDs, such as gonorrhea, syphilis, and Chlamydia, are often cured with antibiotics. However, viral STDs, (the four "H's) such as HIV, HPV (genital warts), herpes, and hepatitis (the only STD that can be prevented with a vaccine), have no cure, but their symptoms can be alleviated with treatment.
In addition to bacteria and viruses, STDs can also be caused by protozoa (trichomoniasis) and other organisms (crabs/pubic lice and scabies). These STDs can be cured with antibiotics or topical creams/lotions.
One of the most common symptoms of an STD is no symptoms. So it is important to go for check-ups. 80 percent of women and 40 percent of men diagnosed with Chlamydia may not experience symptoms. STDs need to be diagnosed correctly and fully treated as soon as possible to avoid complications that could be serious and/or permanent.
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What are sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?
The term "sexually transmitted diseases" or "STDs" represents a group of more than 25 different diseases that can be passed from one person to another through sexual contact.
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How would I know if I need treatment?
If you are having any of the following symptoms - a discharge from the penis or vagina, burning, itching, a sore or sores (either painless or painful) or your sexual partner has been diagnosed with an STD - you should seek treatment.
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How common are STDs?
STDs are very common in the United States. With more than 12 million people in the U.S. infected each year, at least 1 person in 4 will be infected with a STD at some point in his or her life. In the United States, there are approximately 4 million new Chlamydia infections a year, more than 40 million people have herpes and 30 million have genital warts.
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What are the typical symptoms of STDs?
Many STDs have no noticeable symptoms. When they occur, typical STD symptoms for women may include unusual vaginal discharge (flow), sores, bumps, burning when urinating, and redness or itching around the vaginal area. Typical symptoms for men may include discharge from the penis, burning when urinating, and sores, bumps, or redness on or around the penis.
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How can I tell if my partner has an STD?
In most cases, you cannot tell by looking if someone has an STD. STDs often do not have visible symptoms.
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How are STDs transmitted?
STDs can be transmitted through oral, anal or vaginal sex. They can be transmitted from partner to partner with or without visible signs or symptoms. Many people can pass an STD to a sex partner without knowing it. Some STDs can be passed without having intercourse; they can be passed through skin-to-skin contact in the genital area.
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Can herpes be passed when there are no symptoms?
Yes, it is possible to infect someone with herpes, even when you don't have any symptoms. Once thought to be transmitted only when sores were present, recent research has shown that herpes simplex virus (HSV) can be passed even when no visible signs are present.
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Can I get STDs from a towel or a toilet seat?
Most STDs, such as Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, and genital warts, are spread only through direct sexual contact with an infected person. Crabs (pubic lice) or scabies, which are often sexually transmitted, can be passed through contact with infested items like clothes, sheets, or towels.
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What should I do if I think I have an STD?
If you think you have an STD, see a health care provider immediately. Seeking treatment early will help to minimize the long-term effects of most STDs. Avoid sexual contact until you are cured. Remember: many STDs do not have symptoms associated with them. If you are sexually active, getting tested regularly can help you receive treatment in a timely fashion if you contract an STD. Some STDs may cause serious long-term effects. Talk to your primary care provider or local sexual health clinic for more information.
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Can I get an STD more than once?
You are not "immune" to an STD if you have had it before. STDs caused by bacteria (Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis) can be treated and cured, but you can get them again if exposed. Viral STDs cannot be cured and may remain in your body forever.
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Page last updated:
8/25/2008