A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection that is passed from person to person through sexual contact including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. These infections can be caused by bacteria or viruses.
Many bacterial STIs can be treated successfully with antibiotics. However, there is still no cure for viral STIs such as HIV, genital herpes, and human papilloma virus (HPV). Typically, only the symptoms of these infections can be treated, so they can still be passed from one partner to another.
Although STI is often used interchangeably with the term sexually transmitted disease (STD), an STI refers to the presence of pathogenic organisms within the body without the presence of symptoms of disease. An STD, on the other hand, refers to the damage caused by an STI that has progressed. So, although all STDs are preceded by STIs, not all STIs result in an STD.
More About Sexually Transmitted Infection
Generally, abstinence is the best way to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections, but using a latex condom when engaging in sexual activities like vaginal, anal, and oral sex can help reduce the likelihood of contracting most STIs. Those who are sexually active should also get themselves tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections.
