Anyone can get a sexually transmitted infection (STI) by being sexually active. Not all STIs have symptoms. Screening is important because you may not know that you're infected. If you have an STI, get treatment right away. It can help to prevent harmful long-term effects. You may also prevent giving the STI to others.
How Are STIs Transmitted?
STIs are most commonly transmitted through sexual activity. Transmission can also occur through skin-to-skin contact with infected areas, sharing contaminated needles or syringes, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. Without treatment, STIs can cause serious health problems like not being able to get pregnant (infertility), permanent brain damage, heart disease, cancer, and even death. If you think you have been exposed to an STI, you and your sex partner(s) should visit a health clinic, hospital, or primary care provider (PCP) for testing and treatment.
What Are Symptoms of STIs?
Not everyone with an STI will have symptoms, especially in the early stages of infection. Symptoms can vary. Symptoms may include:
- Sores or bumps on the genitals
- Painful or burning urination
- Discharge from the penis
- Unusual or odorous vaginal discharge
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Pain during sex
Diagnosis
Tests can find the cause of STI symptoms. They can also find STIs without symptoms. Ask your PCP about:
- Blood tests
- Urine samples
- Fluid samples
To find an STI provider, please visit the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) Provider Directory. Find additional resources from NYSDOH here.
Treatment
Talk to your PCP about treatment for STIs. Depending on your condition, your PCP might recommend:
- Antibiotics, which can cure STIs such as gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia and trichomoniasis
- Antiviral drugs, which can prevent a viral infection (like herpes or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from getting worse
Always follow your PCP’s directions when taking medications.
Click here to learn more about STIs.
Sources
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/symptoms-causes/syc-20351240
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351246
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sexually-transmitted-diseases-stds/in-depth/std-testing/art-20046019