What are Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?

An STI is a virus, bacteria, fungus, or parasite that people can get through sexual contact, whether it’s oral, vaginal, or anal exposure.

How STIs spread

STIs pass from one person to another through oral, anal, and vaginal sex, as well as genital skin-to-skin contact.

Risk factors

Several behaviors can increase your risk:

  • Having anal, vaginal, or oral sex without a condom
  • Having multiple sex partners
  • Having anonymous sex partners
  • Having sex while under the influence of drugs or alcohol can lower inhibitions and result in greater sexual risk-taking

Symptoms

There are a variety of symptoms that can be associated with an STI, but many STIs have no signs or symptoms. You or your partner could be positive and not know it. The only way to know your status is to get tested.

Prevention steps and strategies

  • Abstaining from vaginal, anal, or oral sex. This is the only way to completely avoid STIs.
  • Getting vaccinated. Vaccines are recommended for some people to prevent certain STIs, including:
  • Reducing your number of sex partners.
  • Regular testing. You and your partner should get tested and share your results.
  • Being in a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and does not have an STI.
  • Using condoms every time you have sex.
  • Consider DoxyPEP.

Testing, diagnosis, and treatment

Knowing your STI status is a critical step in prevention. Ask your Care Pathway Center provider to test you. Make sure your partner asks a healthcare provider about testing as well. Many STIs can be easily diagnosed and treated. If you or your partner have an STI, both of you need treatment at the same time.