STIs

What is an sti?

  • An STI is a sexually transmitted infection.

  • They are infections passed from one person to another person often through sexual contact.

    • An infection is when a bacteria, virus, or parasite enters and grows in or on your body.

  • All STIs can be treated, but not all can be cured.

  • STIs are also known as STDs, which stands for a sexually transmitted disease. However, this term is not as frequently used because most common STIs are actually infections, not diseases.

what are the different kinds of stis?

Bacterial

Caused a bacterial source.

Viral

Caused by a virus or viral infection.

Parasitic

Caused by a parasite.

What activities can lead to an sti?

  • Oral Sex

  • Anal Sex

  • Vaginal Sex

  • Naked genital-to-genital contact

How are Stis passed?

  • Semen, pre-ejaculatory fluid

  • Vaginal fluid

  • Rectal fluid

  • Blood

  • Breast milk

  • Intimate skin-to-skin contact

general symptoms of stis

NO SYMPTOMS is the most common symptom!

  • Burning while urinating

  • Itching

  • Redness

  • Bleeding

  • Sores/bumps

  • Pain or discomfort

  • Abnormal discharge from penis or vagina

  • Fever or flu symptoms

General prevention

  • Abstinence

  • STI testing and treatment

  • Vaccines

  • Communicate with partner(s) about protection and possible risk

  • PrEP/PEP

  • Barrier methods (condoms, dental dams, etc.)

  • Washing hands

  • Pee before and after sex

  • Avoid shaving, waxing, or removing pubic hair

What happens if someone has an sti, but doesn't know?

  • Can unknowingly pass it someone else

  • Can cause internal problems or serious medical issues even no external symptoms

  • Having one STI puts people at higher risk for contracting other STIs

  • Could cause fertility issues in the future