Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in the United States are on the rise and show no signs of slowing. Reported cases of the sexually transmitted infections chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis have all increased since 2020 – reaching a total of more than 2.5 million reported cases in 2021. This is according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
Although many STIs are preventable, there remains a lack of public awareness about practicing safe sex and when STI testing may be required.
What Is a Sexually Transmitted Infection?
Sexually transmitted infections develop when various bacteria, viruses, or parasites infect the body during sexual intercourse. These microorganisms are passed from one person to another through bodily fluids like blood, semen, and saliva. An STI can be passed from one person to another through vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
The Most Common STIs
The most common STI in the United States is the human papillomavirus (HPV). This is followed by Chlamydia and Gonorrhea. The following is a list of common STIs alongside their symptoms.
Chlamydia and Gonorrhea
These STIs can be contracted through oral, genital, or anal sex, and co-infection with both Chlamydia and gonorrhea is quite common. Individuals who have been infected typically show no signs or symptoms. If symptoms are present, these include pain or burning during urination or abnormal discharge from the genitals.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
According to CDC statistics, there were approximately 43 million HPV infections in 2018 alone. HPV is a viral infection where most of those infected will have no symptoms at all. In some cases, warts may appear as a small bump or a group of bumps in the genital area. Because HPV is a virus, there is no specific treatment for it. However, medications can be used to help genital warts.
Syphilis
Syphilis is a less well-known STI, but as with other sexually transmitted infections, it can cause major health problems if left untreated. Anyone can get syphilis through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Infection with syphilis does not always produce symptoms. Still, if symptoms do occur, this first shows up as a painless, round, and red sore that can appear anywhere— typically on the genitals, rectum, or mouth.
Trichomonas
Trichomonas, caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, is an STI that usually occurs without symptoms. Only 30% of people develop symptoms after infection. If symptoms are present, they usually appear as large amounts of yellow-green vaginal discharge and pain during sexual Intercourse.
Symptoms of an STI
Symptoms of sexually transmitted infections vary by the type of infection. Although not every STI will present with obvious symptoms if you do have symptoms, they may appear around the genital region and could include the following:
- Abnormal discharge from the penis or vagina
- Abnormal (or new) rash in the genital area
- Blisters, sores, or warts in the genital area
- Itching in the genital area
- Pain or burning during urination
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
The presence of one or more of these symptoms should prompt an urgent trip to your doctor or local sexual health clinic.
When Should You Get Tested for STIs?
It is important to get tested for an STI in any of the following cases:
- You have one or more of the symptoms mentioned above.
- You are aware that a current or past partner may have contracted an STI.
- You are in a new relationship with a new partner.
- You are in a non-monogamous relationship. In this case, routine testing every few months is highly recommended.
- As part of routine testing
Diagnosis
During your STI screening or testing, medical staff will take a brief history and ask questions about any symptoms that you are experiencing. It is important to be as open and honest as possible. All information will be treated with absolute privacy and confidence. No information will be shared with any third party.
Apart from a physical exam and history, one or more of the following tests may be carried out:
- Speculum examination
- Urine test
- Blood test
Management
Based on your presumed or confirmed diagnosis, your doctor will prescribe the appropriate medications to help treat the STI and manage symptoms. This may include antibiotics or antiviral medications.
Importance of Treating an STI
Any STI must be treated immediately. Although this applies equally to both men and women, for women, this is particularly important because an untreated STI like chlamydia or gonorrhea can have long-term gynecological effects. One of these is an impact on fertility.
Avoiding an STI: Steps to Take
Prevention is the best type of management that exists. So, taking steps to help lower the risk of contracting an STI is important. Consider the following proactive actions that you can take:
- Condom Usage – The most common STIs are transmitted via sexual contact and bodily secretions. Condoms are one of the most effective ways to reduce your infection risk.
- Regular STI Testing – Get tested regularly, at least once every six months, if you are a sexually active adult.
STIs can have serious health consequences, so do not overlook any symptoms that you may have. Furthermore, get treatment as soon as possible where required.
