Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are very common. Millions of new infections occur every year in the United States. STDs pass from one person to another through vaginal, oral, and anal sex. They also can spread through intimate physical contact like heavy petting, though this is not very common.
STIs don’t always cause symptoms or may only cause mild symptoms. Therefore, it is possible to have an infection and not know it. That is why getting an STD test is important if you are having sex. If you receive a positive STD diagnosis, know that all are treatable with medicine and some are curable entirely.
STDs are preventable. If you have sex, know how to protect yourself and your sex partner(s) from STDs. In 2019 alone, there were nearly 2,000 cases of congenital syphilis reported, including 128 deaths. Syphilis among newborns can result in lifelong physical and neurologic problems; meaning bone deformity, severe anemia, brain and nerve problems; including blindness, can become reality for affected infants.
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