An STI, or sexually transmitted infection, is an infection that can be passed from one person to another through sexual contact. This can include vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as genital-to-genital contact. Some common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HPV (human papillomavirus), and HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).

STIs can cause a variety of symptoms, including genital sores, discharge, pain or burning during urination, itching or irritation in the genital area, and flu-like symptoms such as fever or body aches. However, some STIs may not cause any symptoms at all, which is why it’s essential to get tested regularly if you’re sexually active.

STIs can have serious consequences if left untreated, including infertility, chronic pain, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Fortunately, many STIs can be treated with antibiotics or antiviral medications if detected early.

The best way to prevent STIs is to practice safe sex by using condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity, getting tested regularly for STIs, and talking openly with sexual partners about sexual health. If you have questions or concerns about STIs, it’s important to talk to a trusted adult or healthcare provider.

STIs, or sexually transmitted infections, are infections that can be passed from one person to another through sexual activity. This includes vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as genital-to-genital contact.

When someone has an STI, the bacteria, viruses, or parasites that cause the infection can be present in their bodily fluids, such as blood, semen, vaginal fluids, or genital secretions. During sexual contact, these infected fluids can come into contact with the mucous membranes of another person’s genitals, mouth, or anus, allowing the infection to spread.

It’s important to understand that STIs can be transmitted even if there are no visible symptoms present. This means that someone can have an STI and not know it, making regular STI testing essential for sexually active individuals.

To prevent the transmission of STIs, it’s important to practice safe sex by using condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity, getting tested regularly for STIs, and talking openly with sexual partners about sexual health. If you have questions or concerns about STIs, it’s important to talk to a trusted adult or healthcare provider.