Sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, can be insidious because they often don’t cause any symptoms. This means that individuals can be infected with an STD and unwittingly pass it on to others.

We’ve compiled a list of 5 STDs that can be present without any visible symptoms.

1. Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the most common STDs in the United States. It’s caused by a bacterial infection, and can be passed on through vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

Many individuals with chlamydia have no symptoms, so they don’t even realize they’re infected. However, some people may experience pain during sex, discharge, or burning while urinating. If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious health problems, including infertility in women.

2. Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another bacterial STD that is often asymptomatic. Like chlamydia, it can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

Some people may experience symptoms like discharge or painful urination, but others may not have any visible signs of infection. If left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to a host of health problems, including pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.

3. HPV

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is a viral STD that is incredibly common. Most sexually active people will contract HPV at some point in their lives. While many strains of HPV go away on their own, others can cause genital warts or even cancer.

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HPV often doesn’t have any visible symptoms, which is why regular Pap tests and HPV screenings are so important for women.

4. Herpes

Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus, and can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, anal, or oral sex. There are two types of herpes, HSV-1 and HSV-2, and both can cause genital herpes.

Many people with herpes are unaware that they’re infected, as the virus can lie dormant for years without causing any visible symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they include painful blisters around the genitals or mouth.

5. Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial STD that can cause serious health problems if left untreated. It’s transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, and can cause a variety of symptoms, including rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes.

However, in some cases, syphilis doesn’t cause any visible symptoms at all. If left untreated, syphilis can lead to serious health problems, including blindness, paralysis, and even death.

Conclusion

STDs can be particularly dangerous because many individuals with them don’t even know they’re infected. Regular STD testing and screening are critical for catching these diseases early and preventing their spread.

If you’re sexually active, it’s important to talk to your doctor about getting tested for STDs, particularly if you’re not experiencing any visible symptoms.