Understanding the facts can help people make informed decisions without being frightened by exaggerated claims.
The Risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections
One of the most important health considerations associated with sexual activity is the possibility of acquiring or transmitting a sexually transmitted infection.
STIs can spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as through certain kinds of intimate skin-to-skin contact. The specific risk depends on the infection, the type of contact, whether barriers were used, and whether either person has an infection.
Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), hepatitis B, and HIV.
Some infections cause noticeable symptoms. Others can remain undetected for weeks, months, or even longer.
Possible symptoms include unusual genital discharge, pain when urinating, sores, blisters, itching, pelvic pain, or bleeding outside a person’s usual menstrual pattern. However, these symptoms can also have other causes, and their absence does not guarantee that a person is free of an STI.
