Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs are infections that are transmitted through sexual contact. They come in different forms and affect people of all ages, genders, and sexual orientations.

Despite their widespread occurrence, there are still many misconceptions surrounding STDs that prevent people from seeking proper treatment and prevention. Here are some important facts that everyone should know about STDs:.

Fact #1: STDs are common

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than one million people worldwide get an STD every day. In the United States alone, there were 2.4 million reported cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis in 2018.

This makes STDs one of the most common types of infectious diseases worldwide.

Fact #2: Some STDs have no symptoms

Many STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes may not display any symptoms at all. This means that people can be infected without realizing it, and may unknowingly infect their sexual partners.

This is why regular STD testing is essential for early detection and treatment.

Fact #3: STDs can be transmitted through different types of sexual contact

STDs can be transmitted through different types of sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. They can also be passed from one person to another through skin-to-skin contact.

The use of condoms or dental dams during sexual activity can help reduce the risk of STD transmission.

Fact #4: Many STDs are treatable

While some STDs like HIV have no cure, many other STDs can be treated with antibiotics or antiviral medications. The key is to get tested and diagnosed early so that treatment can be administered promptly.

Untreated STDs can lead to serious long-term health consequences including infertility, chronic pain, and even death.

Fact #5: STDs do not discriminate

STDs can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or sexual orientation. People who engage in unprotected sex or have multiple sexual partners are at a higher risk of contracting an STD.

However, even people in committed relationships can get an STD if their partner is infected.

Fact #6: You can get an STD more than once

Just because you have had an STD before doesn’t mean you can’t get it again. Some STDs like chlamydia can be contracted and cured multiple times, while others like herpes and HIV are lifelong infections.

It’s important to get tested and treated regularly, especially if you have a history of STDs.

Fact #7: STD testing is quick and easy

STD testing is available at most healthcare clinics, Planned Parenthood centers, and some pharmacies. The tests are quick and easy, and usually involve a blood sample, urine sample, or swab of the affected area.

Some clinics even offer free or low-cost testing to make it more accessible.

Fact #8: You cannot tell if someone has an STD just by looking at them

Many people assume that if someone looks healthy and clean, they must be free of STDs. However, this is not the case. Some STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and even HIV may not display any physical symptoms at all.

This is why it’s important to get tested regularly if you are sexually active.

Fact #9: STD prevention involves more than just using condoms

While using condoms or dental dams during sexual activity can greatly reduce the risk of STD transmission, it’s not the only way to prevent STDs. Abstinence or mutual monogamy with a partner who has tested negative for STDs is also effective.

Regular testing and communication with sexual partners are also important steps in STD prevention.

Fact #10: There is no shame in getting tested for STDs

Getting tested for STDs is a responsible and normal part of sexual health. There is no shame in seeking testing and treatment for STDs. In fact, being proactive about STD prevention and treatment is a sign of maturity and responsibility.