The Most Common STIs You Don’t Want (But Can Easily Catch)

Read Time: 10–12 Minutes

The Most Common STIs You Don’t Want (But Can Easily Catch)

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
• Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
• HIV/AIDS
• Syphilis
• Trichomoniasis
• How STIs Spread
• Mitigating the Spread of STIs
• Protect Your Body & Peace of Mind With FC2

Each year, more than 9 million women in the United States are diagnosed with a sexually transmitted infection (STI), according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. That’s a lot.

While STIs are widespread, they are much more preventable than ever before with the right knowledge and safer practices. Many infections can be managed with proper treatment, but let’s be real — who wants to deal with that and the potential consequences to your health?

Taking the proper precautions can help reduce your risk of contracting and spreading STIs significantly. Keep reading to discover the most common ones out there, what symptoms they each have and how you can protect yourself from them.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a common bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis.

Transmission

It is primarily spread through vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who already has the infection themselves. Chlamydia can also be transmitted through nonsexual means, such as from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. Although rare, it can also spread through nonsexual contact with infected bodily fluids, such as from sharing contaminated towels or washcloths.

Symptoms: Often None

Chlamydia often shows no symptoms (asymptomatic), and if symptoms do appear, they may not surface until several weeks after having sex with an infected partner. Symptoms can include:

• Abnormal discharge
• Pain during urination
• Pain during intercourse (in women)
• Pain and swelling in one or both testicles (in men, though this is less common)
• Rectal pain, discharge or bleeding (if the infection is in the rectum)

Dangers & Long-Term Effects

If left untreated, chlamydia can lead to serious reproductive health issues, including infertility. According to the CDC, about 10–15% of women with untreated chlamydia may develop pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can increase the risk of infertility. Each instance of untreated chlamydia can raise the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and tubal factor infertility by at least 30%. For pregnant women, chlamydia poses a risk of transmitting the infection to their baby during childbirth. Prompt testing and treatment are crucial for protecting your reproductive health and the well-being of your baby, if you choose to have one.

Testing & Treatment

• Testing: It is vital to get tested regularly, especially since symptoms are often absent. Testing is done using urine samples or swabs.
• Treatment: Chlamydia is typically treated with antibiotics.
• Precaution: Wait at least seven days after finishing medication before having sex. It’s also important for exposed partners to get tested and treated to prevent reinfection and ensure that the infection is fully cleared. This applies to many STIs to help stop the spread and protect everyone’s health.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a common bacterial infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, affecting sexually active individuals, especially those between the ages of 15 and 24.

Transmission

It spreads primarily through vaginal, anal or oral sex but can also be transmitted indirectly from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth.

Symptoms: Often None

Often asymptomatic, especially in women, but when present, symptoms may include:

• Painful urination
• Pain or swelling in one testicle (in men)
• Vaginal bleeding between periods
• Abnormal vaginal or penile discharge (may be yellow, green or white)
• Painful bowel movements or anal itching (if the infection is in the rectum)

Dangers & Long-Term Effects

If untreated, gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility in women. It can also increase the risk of contracting HIV. In rare cases, gonorrhea can become life-threatening if it spreads to the blood or joints, causing conditions such as septic arthritis.

Testing & Treatment

• Testing: Testing for gonorrhea typically involves a urine test or a swab from the infected area (such as the cervix, urethra, throat or rectum).
• Treatment: Gonorrhea is typically treated with antibiotics. While the treatment effectively clears the infection, it may not reverse any long-term damage that has already occurred. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and minimize lasting effects.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

There are more than 100 types of HPV, with some strains linked to genital warts and certain cancers, including cervical cancer. HPV is most common among people between 15 to 24 years old and spreads primarily through vaginal, anal or oral sex. Many people with HPV may not experience any symptoms, and the infection often resolves on its own without causing health issues. However, depending on the strain, if the infection persists, it can lead to health problems.

Transmission

HPV is spread through vaginal, anal or oral sex and can also be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact with infected areas. HPV can affect areas that aren’t fully covered by male or female condoms, so while using them can reduce the risk, it doesn’t completely eliminate it.

Symptoms: Often None

Many people with HPV do not show symptoms, but when symptoms do occur, they may include:

• Warts: Small, cauliflower-like growths that can appear on the genitals, surrounding areas or other parts of the body, including the hands and feet.
• Changes in cervical cells: This can be detected through a Pap smear.
• Symptoms of related cancers: In some cases, abnormal bleeding or pain may be signs of HPV-related cancers.

Dangers & Long-Term Effects

Persistent HPV infections can lead to serious health issues, including:

• Genital warts
• Cervical dysplasia (precancerous changes in cervical cells)
• Increased risk of developing cervical, anal or oropharyngeal cancers (regular screenings and vaccination can help manage and reduce these risks)

Testing & Treatment

• Testing: Regular screenings, such as Pap smears and HPV tests, are important for early detection, particularly for women. There is currently no routine test for HPV in men.
• Treatment: There is no cure for HPV itself, but treatments are available for managing symptoms and related conditions. Genital warts can be removed through various methods (such as laser treatments, topical creams, prescription medications and more), and precancerous changes in the cervix can be treated to prevent cancer development.

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a common viral infection that comes in two types: HSV-1, which typically causes oral herpes, and HSV-2, which is usually responsible for genital herpes. HSV is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with an infected person’s sores or bodily fluids, including during vaginal, anal or oral sex. Although HSV can remain dormant in the body, it can reactivate, causing recurrent outbreaks.

Transmission

Spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with infected areas, including during vaginal, anal or oral sex, or while kissing. HSV can still be transmitted even when no visible sores are present. Like HPV, HSV can affect areas that condoms don’t fully cover. So, while using male or female condoms can reduce the risk of transmission, it doesn’t completely eliminate it.

Symptoms: Often None

Many people with HSV may not experience symptoms, but when symptoms do occur, they can include:

• Oral herpes (usually HSV-1): Painful sores or blisters around the mouth, lips or face.
• Genital herpes (usually HSV-2): Painful blisters or sores on the genitals, buttocks or thighs.
• Flu-like symptoms: Fever and swollen lymph nodes during initial outbreaks.
• Recurrent outbreaks: Frequent flare-ups of sores or blisters, often triggered by stress, illness or sunlight.

Dangers & Long-Term Effects

While HSV is generally manageable, persistent infections can lead to:

• Recurrent outbreaks: Repeated episodes of painful sores or blisters.
• Transmission risks: Increased risk of spreading the virus to partners.
• Severe complications: In rare cases, HSV can cause complications such as herpes encephalitis or keratitis (eye infection). Pregnant women with genital herpes can pass the virus to their baby during childbirth, potentially causing severe neonatal herpes. Even after birth, passing HSV to a newborn or an infant could cause serious complications or death. Proper management and medical advice are crucial to minimize these risks.

Testing & Treatment

• Testing: Diagnosis is usually based on physical examination and can be confirmed with laboratory tests, such as viral cultures or blood tests for HSV antibodies. Regular screenings are not standard, but testing is recommended if symptoms are present or if there is a known exposure.
• Treatment: There is no cure for HSV, but antiviral medications can help manage symptoms, reduce the frequency of outbreaks and lower the risk of transmission. Topical treatments and lifestyle changes can also alleviate discomfort during outbreaks.
• Prevention: To reduce the risk of HSV transmission, use protection like condoms during sexual activity and avoid intimate contact when sores are present. Daily antiviral medication can also help lower the frequency of outbreaks and decrease the risk of spreading the virus.

HIV/AIDS

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a serious viral infection that attacks the body’s immune system, specifically targeting CD4 cells (T cells). While there isn’t currently a cure for this virus, it can be managed to prevent further complications. Without treatment, HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), the final stage of HIV infection, where the immune system is severely damaged.

Transmission

Spread through contact with infected bodily fluids, including during vaginal, anal or oral sex, sharing needles and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding. HIV can also be transmitted through blood transfusions from an infected donor, though this is rare in countries with stringent blood screening procedures.

Symptoms: Flu-Like or None

HIV often presents with flu-like symptoms early on but can remain asymptomatic for years. As it progresses, symptoms may include:

• Fever, chills, night sweats
• Muscle aches, fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Sore throat, mouth ulcers
• Rash
• Rapid weight loss
• Persistent diarrhea
• Chronic pneumonia

If HIV progresses to the AIDS stage, severe health complications can occur, such as:

• Weakened Immune System: Over time, HIV can damage the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off infections and diseases.
• Certain Cancers: Increased risk of cancers like Kaposi’s sarcoma and lymphomas.
• Transmission Risks: Untreated HIV significantly increases the risk of passing the virus to sexual partners or from mother to child during childbirth.

Testing & Treatment

• Testing: Regular HIV testing is crucial for early detection and effective management of the virus. Testing typically involves a blood sample to check for HIV antibodies or the virus itself and can also include oral swabs. Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment and helps reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.
• Treatment: Again, although there is no current cure for HIV, antiretroviral therapy (ART) is highly effective in managing the virus. ART reduces the viral load to undetectable levels, which helps maintain immune function and prevent the progression of AIDS. Consistent use of ART also lowers the risk of transmitting the virus to others. Regular adherence to the prescribed treatment plan is essential for maintaining health and controlling the infection.
• Prevention: Prevent HIV transmission by using condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity, taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) if at high risk and avoiding sharing needles. Regular testing and early treatment are key to maintaining health and preventing the spread of the virus.

Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection caused by Treponema pallidum. It is primarily spread through direct contact with syphilis sores during vaginal, anal or oral sex. Syphilis can also be transmitted from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy.

Transmission

Syphilis is spread through direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal or oral sex.

Symptoms: Can Appear in Stages

Syphilis progresses through several stages, each with distinct symptoms. Symptoms can be mild and may not appear for years after exposure. They include:

• Primary Stage: Painless sores or ulcers, known as chancres, at the site of infection, typically genitals, anus or mouth.
• Secondary Stage: Skin rashes, mucous membrane lesions (such as in the mouth) and flu-like symptoms, including fever and swollen lymph nodes.
• Latent Stage: No visible symptoms, but the bacteria remain in the body.
• Tertiary Stage: If untreated, syphilis can progress to this stage, causing severe health problems such as damage to the heart, brain and other organs.

Dangers & Long-Term Effects

If untreated, it can lead to serious long-term health issues, including organ damage and neurological problems. Pregnant women should get tested and treated promptly to prevent transmission to the baby, which can cause congenital syphilis and severe health issues for the newborn.

Testing & Treatment

• Testing: Regular screening is crucial, especially if you have been exposed to someone with syphilis or are at higher risk. Diagnosis is typically made through blood tests or examination of sores.
• Treatment: Syphilis is effectively treated with antibiotics, usually penicillin. Early treatment is important to cure the infection and prevent progression to later stages.
• Prevention: To prevent the spread of syphilis, practice safe sex by using condoms and get tested regularly. It is also important to inform sexual partners if you are diagnosed to ensure they receive testing and treatment.

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. It primarily affects women and is spread through vaginal, anal or oral sex with an infected partner.

Transmission

Spread through direct contact with an infected person during vaginal, anal or oral sex.

Symptoms: Often None

Trichomoniasis may be asymptomatic, but when symptoms occur, they often include:

• Unusual Vaginal Discharge: Often frothy, green or yellow
• Vaginal Itching or Irritation: Discomfort or itching in the vaginal area
• Painful Urination: Discomfort or pain during urination
• Discomfort During Intercourse: Pain or irritation during sexual activity

Dangers & Long-Term Effects

If left untreated, trichomoniasis can lead to complications, such as:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) is a severe infection that affects the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries. This condition can cause chronic pelvic pain or irregular bleeding and may impact fertility.
• Increased Risk of Other STIs: This includes HIV and other similar infections due to the irritation and inflammation it causes.

Testing & Treatment

• Testing: Regular screening is important, especially if you have symptoms or are at risk. Diagnosis is typically made through a pelvic examination and laboratory testing of vaginal fluid. In some cases, a urine test may be used.
• Treatment: Trichomoniasis is effectively treated with antibiotics, usually metronidazole or tinidazole. Completing the full course of medication is essential to clear the infection and prevent recurrence.
• Prevention: To prevent the spread of trichomoniasis, practice safer sex by using condoms and get tested regularly if you are sexually active. It is also important to inform your sexual partners if you are diagnosed so they can be tested and treated if necessary.

How STIs Spread

STIs primarily spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal and oral sex. It’s important to remember that many STIs can be transmitted even when no symptoms are present, so making screenings a regular thing is super important. Certain STIs can also spread through non-sexual means, such as from mother to child during childbirth or through blood transfusions, though these cases are less common.

Regular STI screenings are vital for catching infections early and preventing transmission. Many STIs are treatable, and early detection can prevent complications and reduce the spread to others!

Mitigating the Spread of STIs

We know this information about STIs and their effects can sound scary, but you can help prevent the spread of STIs through a combination of safer sex practices and informed decisions. Using protection consistently, like the FC2 Female Condom, an internal condom FDA-approved and designed for use in the vagina, is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of transmission. FC2 puts women and people with vaginas in the driver’s seat of their sexual health by providing a reliable method of STI prevention that they control.

Having honest conversations with your partner(s) about sexual health and getting tested regularly is essential for protecting yourself. To make sure you’re on the same page, have a chat with them about their status, and maybe even get tested together. That’s a great way for all parties involved to get on the same page and have peace of mind.

By staying informed and making thoughtful choices, you can significantly lower your chances of getting or spreading STIs. And, of course, if you think you or your partner are experiencing any symptoms, give your doctor a shout (they deal with these sorts of things EVERY DAY — we promise!).

Help Protect Your Body With FC2

Have a vagina and want to stay in control of your sexual health? FC2 gives you the option to initiate safer sex, helping you and your partner reduce the risk of STI transmission.