Understanding Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. The contact is usually vaginal, oral, and anal sex. But sometimes they can spread through other intimate physical contact.
STIs are serious illnesses that require treatment. Some STIs, such as HIV, cannot be cured and can be deadly. By learning more about STIs, you can learn ways to protect yourself.
STIs used to be called venereal diseases or VD.
They are among the most common contagious diseases. It's estimated that 25% of all Americans have an incurable STI. Each year, 20 million new cases are reported; half of these infections are among people ages 15 to 24 and they can have long-term consequences.
You can get an STI from vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
You can also be infected with trichomoniasis through contact with damp or moist objects such as towels, wet clothing, or toilet seats, although it is more commonly spread by sexual contact. You are at high risk if:
You have more than one sex partner
You have sex with someone who has had many partners
You don't use a condom when having sex
You share needles when injecting intravenous drugs
You trade sex for money or drugs
STD VS STI
The first difference between STDs and STIs is in the name.
STD stands for sexually transmitted disease, whereas STI means sexually transmitted infection.
Essentially, the difference is between a disease and an infection.
Not all diseases begin with infections, but many do. Sexually transmitted disease first begin as sexually transmitted infections. Infection occurs with the sexually transmitted bacteria or virus first enters the body and begins multiplying.
Once the sexually transmitted bacteria or viruses have entered the body, the infection may progress into a disease. Disease occurs when this foreign presence officially disrupts the body’s normal functions and processes.
Origins of the Terms
Another reason for the emergence of the term STI is due to stigma.
Terms like venereal disease and sexually transmitted disease have existed for so long that they have a bad connotation.
Already, venereal disease was changed out for sexually transmitted disease. Now, many people prefer to use the term sexually transmitted infection. Perhaps in another 50 years, there will be another term introduced.
Both venereal disease and sexually transmitted disease use the term “disease.” This seems to be the catalyst for the bad connotation. In contract, the term “infection” does not garner as much negativity. This is possibly due to the perception that an infection is less serious or severe.
Of course, STD and STI aren’t really interchangeable. However, even doctors are using STI instead of STD. Sometimes stigma can be just as harmful as a disease.
HIV and herpes are chronic conditions that can be managed but not cured.
Hepatitis B also may become chronic but can be managed. You may not realize you have certain STIs until you have damage to your reproductive organs (rendering you infertile), your vision, your heart, or other organs. Having an STI may weaken the immune system, leaving you more vulnerable to other infections. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a complication of gonorrhea and chlamydia that can leave women unable to have children. It can even kill you. If you pass an STI to your newborn child, the baby may suffer permanent harm or death.
What causes STIs?
STIs include just about every kind of infection.
Bacterial STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Viral STIs include HIV, genital herpes, genital warts (HPV), and hepatitis B. Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite.
The germs that cause STIs hide in semen, blood, vaginal secretions, and sometimes saliva. Most of the organisms are spread by vaginal, anal, or oral sex, but some, such as those that cause genital herpes and genital warts, may be spread through skin contact. You can get hepatitis B by sharing personal items, such as toothbrushes or razors, with someone who has it.
Different STIs and What They Are
How To Talk About Sex
Communication is important. Especially, with your sexual partners and your healthcare provider. If you are engaging in any type of sex, you should talk about your sexual health.
For young people
A healthcare provider, nurse, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant can tell you the best way to protect your (and your partner's) sexual health.
Start the conversation with a healthcare provider
They'll likely start by asking some personal questions like who you are having sex with (men, women, or both), how many people you are with, and what kind(s) of sex you like to have. They aren't trying to be nosy. They just need some details so they can make the right recommendations for you.
Get on the same page with your partner(s)
Talking about sexual health with your partner(s) is a good way to help protect your health. Being honest with each other lets you figure out what healthier sex practices are best for your situation. Knowing what you're dealing with helps you own your sexual health and make confident decisions.
For parents
Having “the talk” with your kids is rarely comfortable, but is very important – including telling them about sexually transmitted infection (STIs).
Why is talking about STIs with your children important?
It is important for parents to talk to their kids and teens about sex. Your kids need to understand how STDs spread and how to protect themselves. Healthy sexuality is part of being a healthy human being. As parents, we want to raise our children to be safe and healthy in relationships. If the conversation is not working out, is too difficult, or you would like additional support, talk to your child’s pediatrician or a licensed counselor or sexual health expert.
Does talking with teens about sex make a difference?
According to many researchers, the answer is “yes.” Studies have shown that teens who report talking with their parents about sex are more likely to delay having sex and to use condoms when they do have sex. Talking to kids and teens about sex and does not make it more likely that they'll have sex. But if they do become sexually active, they will understand the risks and know how to protect themselves.
When Should I Talk to My Kids About STIs?
Conversations about STIs can happen in the pre-teen years, as early as age 10 to 12, depending on the child. Many schools start sexual education in 5th or 6th grade, but you can start the conversation earlier. Before discussing STIs, start by talking about sex, relationships, emotions and body image.
How Do I Bring Up the Subject of STIs?
First, offer a message of unconditional love and support to your child. Then begin with an “I” statement, such as, “I’ve heard that more teens are getting STIs in Minnesota and I’m wondering what you know or might have heard.” Don’t worry if it feels awkward, or if your teen shuts down. Let him or her know it’s important to talk about, but that you don’t have all the answers.