Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that are usually passed from one person to another through sexual contact.

While many STDs are well-known and commonly discussed, there are some sneaky STDs that can be transmitted without the affected person even knowing it. These hidden infections can have serious consequences if left untreated, as they can lead to long-term health problems. In this article, we will discuss 20 sneaky STDs that can be passed without you knowing.

1. Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common bacterial infection that can easily be transmitted without noticeable symptoms. It can be passed through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as through genital-to-genital contact.

If left untreated, it can cause complications such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility.

2. Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another bacterial infection that can be passed unknowingly.

It is transmitted in the same ways as chlamydia and can also lead to serious health problems if not treated, including pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and epididymitis in men.

3. Herpes

Herpes is a viral infection that can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact. Many people with herpes may not experience any visible symptoms, but they can still pass the virus to others.

There is no cure for herpes, but antiviral medications can help manage outbreaks.

4. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is a common infection that is transmitted through sexual contact. Many strains of HPV do not cause any symptoms and go away on their own, but some can lead to genital warts or certain types of cancer, such as cervical, anal, or throat cancer.

Vaccines are available to prevent certain strains of HPV.

5. Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a parasitic infection that is frequently transmitted during sexual intercourse. However, most infected individuals do not notice any symptoms.

If left untreated, trichomoniasis can increase the risk of acquiring or transmitting other STDs.

6. Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can be transmitted through sexual contact, including oral, anal, and vaginal sex. It progresses in stages, and symptoms may not be apparent in the early stages.

If untreated, syphilis can cause serious long-term complications, including damage to the heart, brain, and other organs.

7. Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can be transmitted through direct contact with infected blood, unprotected sex, or sharing needles.

Many people infected with hepatitis B do not experience symptoms initially, but it can lead to liver damage or even liver cancer if left untreated.

8. Hepatitis C

Hepatitis C is another viral infection that is transmitted through blood-to-blood contact. It is most commonly spread through sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia, but it can also be transmitted through sexual contact.

Hepatitis C often does not cause symptoms until the liver is already significantly damaged.

9. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

HIV is a viral infection that attacks the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections and diseases.

It is primarily transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles, or from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. Many individuals infected with HIV may not experience symptoms for years, but the virus can still be transmitted.

10. Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina that can be sexually transmitted. It often causes a fishy odor and abnormal discharge in women, but some infected individuals may not have any noticeable symptoms.

BV can increase the risk of developing other STDs and can lead to complications during pregnancy.

11. Mycoplasma Genitalium

Mycoplasma genitalium is a bacteria that can cause urethritis in men and cervicitis in women. It is primarily transmitted through sexual contact but may not cause symptoms in all cases.

If left untreated, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease in women and increase the risk of other STDs.

12. Pubic Lice

Pubic lice, also known as “crabs,” are tiny insects that infest pubic hair. They are most commonly spread through sexual contact but can also be transmitted through sharing infested clothing or bedding.

Infestations may not cause noticeable symptoms initially, but they can cause itching and irritation.

13. Molluscum Contagiosum

Molluscum contagiosum is a viral infection that causes small, raised bumps on the skin. It can be transmitted through sexual contact, as well as through non-sexual skin-to-skin contact.

The bumps may not cause any pain or discomfort but can be spread to other areas of the body or to sexual partners if left untreated.

14. Scabies

Scabies is a skin infection caused by tiny mites that burrow into the skin, resulting in an itchy rash. It is highly contagious and primarily transmitted through prolonged skin-to-skin contact, including sexual contact.

Scabies can take several weeks for symptoms to appear after initial exposure.

15. Chancroid

Chancroid is a bacterial infection that causes painful genital sores. It is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and can be passed unknowingly if no visible sores are present.

If left untreated, chancroid sores can lead to abscesses and increase the risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV.

16. Ureaplasma

Ureaplasma is a type of bacteria that can cause infections in the urinary tract. It is commonly transmitted through sexual contact but may not cause symptoms in all individuals.

Ureaplasma has been associated with complications during pregnancy and potential risks for newborns.

17. Lymphogranuloma Venereum (LGV)

Lymphogranuloma venereum is a bacterial infection that primarily affects the lymph nodes and can cause genital ulcers and swollen lymph nodes in the groin. It is transmitted through sexual contact and can be passed without noticeable symptoms.

LGV can lead to long-term complications if left untreated, including chronic swelling and potential damage to the rectum.

18. Donovanosis

Donovanosis, also known as granuloma inguinale, is a bacterial infection that causes genital ulcers or sores. It is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and can be passed without noticeable symptoms in some cases.

If left untreated, donovanosis can cause extensive tissue damage in the genital area.

19. Cytomegalovirus (CMV)

Cytomegalovirus is a common virus that can be transmitted through sexual contact, as well as other modes such as kissing or sharing saliva.

Most healthy individuals show no noticeable symptoms, but it can cause serious complications in people with weakened immune systems or during pregnancy.

20. Shigella

Shigella is a bacterial infection that causes diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain. It is primarily transmitted through oral-fecal contact, such as during anal sex or through contaminated food or water.

Shigella can be spread unknowingly if no symptoms are present, and individuals can remain contagious even after symptoms have resolved.

Conclusion

It is vital to be aware of the sneaky STDs that can be passed without you knowing. Regular STD testing, practicing safe sex, and open communication with sexual partners can help prevent the transmission and spread of these infections.

Remember, early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing long-term health complications. Educate yourself about these hidden infections and take the necessary precautions to protect your sexual health.