Do you know the difference between an STI and STD
According to a survey conducted by The Cougar Press with 162 VHS student responses, one in three Ventura High School students do not know the difference between an STI and an STD.
There are common misconceptions about the differences between the two, so what is the difference? STI stands for sexually transmitted infection. It is an infection spread through sexual contact and refers to an infection in the body, regardless if symptoms are present. An STD is a sexually transmitted disease. An STD is a more progressed version of an STI, causing noticeable symptoms and health problems.
So, which term should be used? Public health organizations, such as the CDC recommend using the term STI, as it has a broader, more accurate term since many infections do not progress to diseases.
STIs are transmitted through sexual contact. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, sexual contact includes vaginal, oral and anal sex. The infection is spread when a person comes in contact with the bodily fluid of an infected person. In less common cases, infections can be passed through skin-to-skin contact.
Symptoms of an STI are not always present, but can include bumps or swelling near genital areas, unusual discharge, odor, as well as painful sex or urination. Oftentimes there are no symptoms in the early stages of many infections. For example, chlamydia, HIV, gonorrhea and HPV can be symptom free. Regular screening with a health professional is encouraged, especially for sexually active people.
Stopping an STI from happening or seeking immediate treatment is important to stop it from advancing to an STD. Prevention against both STIs and STDs include the use of condoms and communicating with partners. Vaccinations for certain STIs such as HPV and Hepatitis B are available. Prevention is also important because not all infections/diseases are treatable. While many STIs/STDs are curable, others are manageable with medication, but incurable.
People at a higher risk of getting an STI are those with a history of STIs, a partner with an STI or people with more than one sexual partner. Those who suspect they have an STI should stop sexual activity and get tested immediately. To learn more about getting tested visit the CDC website or speak to a healthcare provider.
