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Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Numerous infections are spread by sexual contact. Get tested if you’re sexually active.

Teens participating in the Summer Wellness Programs

Teens participating in the Summer Wellness Programs

Palo Alto Medical Foundation

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection you can get by having sex. Some STIs (such as gonorrhea ;and chlamydia) infect your sexual and reproductive organs. Others (such as HIV, hepatitis B and syphilis) cause general body infections. STIs used to be called VDs, or venereal diseases.

STIs are very common in people under age 25. If you're sexually active, get tested!

STIs can be transmitted from one person to another during vaginal, anal and oral sex. Some STIs (HIV and hepatitis B) are also spread by contact with infected blood. STIs are not normally spread by digital sex (fingering); however, unclean hands or uncut nails can cause genital problems.

Most STI germs live in warm, moist areas. That's why they infect the mouth, rectum and sex organs (vagina, vulva, penis and testes).

Abstinence and protection are the best ways to prevent STIs.

Most STIs can be cured if you seek treatment. Many STIs are asymptomatic, meaning you have no symptoms. However, you still have the STI until you get treated Some STIs cannot be cured.

Additional Resources

  • STD Wizard — It takes 5 minutes to find out if you need to be tested for an STI such as hepatitis, HIV or chlamydia.
  • HIV Rap Interactive — Watch a video, answer a quiz to assess your HIV risk or just learn more about sexual health strategies to protect you and your partner using this collection of interactive, multimedia, science-based HIV information, prevention resources and personal stories.
  • Know the Risks — This interactive HIV/AIDS Information and Personal Risk Assessment Center can help you to better understand your risks for HIV and learn more about prevention strategies. The survey and learning activities are also available in Spanish.

Last Reviewed: September 2019

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  • Chlamydia
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  • Gonorrhea
  • Defining Virginity
  • Female Condom
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