Over 20 million people acquire an STI yearly; almost half are between the ages of 15-24. Wondering, ‘Are STIs contagious?’ Prioritize your health by learning about this common concern and exploring prevention methods.
What Are STIs?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are disease-causing infections. There are three types of STIs.
- Bacterial- Examples of bacterial STIs include chlamydia and gonorrhea. Bacterial STIs are curable with common antibiotics.
- Parasitic- Trichomoniasis is the most common parasitic STI. It is also cured with antibiotics.
- Viral- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and human papillomavirus (HPV) are examples of common viral STIs. Viral STIs can be treated with antiviral medication but are not curable. Instead, treatment aims to lessen the viral load, limiting the disease’s symptoms and the chances of transmitting it to another person.
Are STIs Contagious?
Yes, STIs are contagious. They are most commonly transmitted through sexual contact with an infected individual. They can also be passed from a mother to her baby during pregnancy or delivery and through contact with infected bodily fluids, as in needle sharing.
Not everyone experiences symptoms of STIs. A person can carry an STI for months or even years without knowing it. Even when an STI is asymptomatic, it can still be passed to another person.
Treatment for STIs does not create immunity; a person can become infected again with an STI, even the same one after treatment.
 Condoms cannot ensure the prevention of contracting an STI. Birth control does not protect against STIs. Â
Get Tested
If you are a sexually active woman, obtaining routine STI testing is the best way to protect your health. Make an appointment with Cleburne Pregnancy Center for limited (chlamydia and gonorrhea) free STI testing.