“STD” stands for sexually transmitted disease, while “STI” is short for sexually transmitted infection. You probably already knew that, and you are hoping to find out whether there is any functional or practical difference between the two terms. The answer is more complicated than it appears at first glance, primarily because not everyone in the medical field agrees.
An STI is only considered a disease when it causes symptoms. That’s it. That’s the one difference.
But not all STIs develop into STDs
No two STIs or STDs are the same, but some have very similar symptoms. Common symptoms to watch out for include:
That depends on your results.
If you receive a negative result, stay on top of screening with regular STI testing. |
Ask your healthcare provider about the best screening schedule for you based on your individual risk factors. You can also talk to them about the best ways to reduce your risk for STIs, like using barrier methods or PrEP. |
If you receive a positive result, your healthcare provider will prescribe a treatment or management plan depending on the diagnosis. |
You’ll also need to notify your partner(s) so they can be tested and treated if needed. Not sure how to tell them? We’ve got you! This guide can help. |
The most common STIs are caused by bacteria. A course of antibiotics can usually cure them. |
Antibiotics don’t work on infections caused by viruses. Some viral infections clear on their own, but most are long-term conditions. Antiviral medications can usually manage symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission. |
For STIs like crabs, which are caused by something other than bacteria or viruses, topical and oral medications usually do the trick. |
Retesting might be recommended to make sure the treatment has worked. |
Only abstaining from sex (abstinence, or not having sex) offers complete protection from STIs. If you are sexually active, make sure to:
Take steps to protect yourself and others:
Not getting an STI test means remaining unaware of the presence of the infection. Therefore, that ultimately also increases the risk of transmitting it to other people. This may explain why more and more health organizations have trended toward embracing the term STI over STD in more recent years.
Most Commonly Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can be easily cured. If left untreated, chlamydia can make it difficult for a woman to get pregnant.
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 C is a viral infection that causes liver inflammation, sometimes leading to serious liver damage. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) spreads through contaminated blood.
People who have STDs are more likely to get HIV, when compared to people who do not have STDs.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that can have very serious complications when left untreated, but it is simple to cure with the right treatment.
The One Difference Between STIs and STDs — and How to Minimize Your Risk
https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sex/sti-vs-std#symptoms
STD or STI, What’s the Difference?
https://urgentcareomaha.com/std-or-sti-whats-the-difference/
STIs and STDs – what’s the difference?
https://onlinedoctor.lloydspharmacy.com/uk/sexual-health-advice/difference-stis-stds
Sexually Transmitted Diseases & Infections (STDs & STIs)
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9138-sexually-transmitted-diseases–infections-stds–stis
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