There are some words we use interchangeably because we think they mean pretty much the same thing. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) happen to be an example of such words. But, there is a clear distinction between the two. So here it goes.
First things first, STD, as the name suggests, is a commonly used term for a group of medical infections that are transmitted through sexual contact. But not every infected person experiences the symptoms or suffers the infection becoming a disease. That is where the term STI comes into play.
Most people, within the medical community are now transitioning from STD to STI for the same reason, that not every infection becomes a disease. An example of this is that a person who has chlamydia or gonorrhea, which are STIs, may not develop Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, which is an STD. Similarly, a woman carrying HPV (human papilloma virus) may not develop the resulting disease, cervical cancer.
But the most important thing to keep in mind is that STIs are no less dangerous than STDs. While there is less stigma attached to STIs, they still are a group of highly communicable infections! You do not want to be passing them onto your unsuspecting partner or catching them, either. And since a lot of them do not show any symptoms as well, it is important to get yourself checked regularly when you’re sexually active. If you have a new partner, both of you should preferably get checked before you indulge in any canoodling.
However, the good news is that most of the STIs are easily treatable with existing, effective single-dose regimens of antibiotics. This is why we always maintain that safe sex is the best sex. And of course, condoms are your best bet against these STIs!
Stay safe, ladies!
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