The Difference between STIs and STDs

Sexually transmitted diseases are very common among young people. In fact, people between the ages of 15-24 account for about 26 million yearly new cases of STDs across the United States. These include bacterial infections, parasitic, and viral infections.

The numbers are also skyrocketing. According to CDC’s report, cases of chlamydia have increased more than 19% since 2015. Gonorrhea increased more than 56%, and syphilis increased 74%.

Staying informed can help us take a proactive approach to sexual health. This blog will be your guide to STIs and STDs.

STIs Vs. STDs: What Is the Difference?

STIs and STDs aren’t the same things, even though the terms are used interchangeably. They’re actually different conditions.

What Are STIs?

The simple answer is that STIs or sexually transmitted infections haven’t developed into diseases yet. These mean bacteria, viruses, or even parasites. Sexual or nonsexual exchange of bodily fluids can result in STIs. They’re considered diseases when they start showing symptoms.

What Are STDs?

STDs are the diseases stemming from STIs. All STDs start with infections as the pathogens start multiplying and disrupting normal body functions.

What’s The Difference between Infection and Disease?

Though not all diseases start with infections, it’s a different case when it comes to sexually transmitted diseases. So, STIs can be considered the first step to STDs.

They don’t lead to diseases until they start showing symptoms. Disease means that the person has a medical problem, and that’s not always the case with STIs. After all, STIs like chlamydia and gonorrhea have no symptoms.

Infections start off as viruses, bacteria, or parasites entering your body and multiplying. They are usually transmitted via a bodily fluid exchange, like semen, vaginal secretions, or blood. However, they don’t become diseases until these pathogens start damaging the cells and appearing as symptoms.

Getting Testing

One major difference between STIs and STDs is how they present themselves. You can only find out if you have an STI through regular checkups. Unfortunately, many people neglect getting tested once a year due to the stigma around these conditions. That’s how they spread STDs because they’re oblivious of their health.

Though STD carriers can only be sure of having an STD through checkups, their symptoms are a surefire sign. It’s better to not let the symptoms get worse and contact a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

Though the CDC recommends yearly screenings, some other indicators are also a sign to get tested. You should get tested if you’ve recently been involved in sexual activity without using any protection. It’s also a good idea to get tested if you’re planning to engage in sexual activity with a new partner or have multiple partners. Pregnant people should get checked during their first prenatal visit as well.

Need to learn more? Visit FastDocNow.

We are an online medical care and medication management service to help you with your medical problems. We offer online consultation services and healthcare for STIs like Chlamydia, gonorrhea, etc.