April is Sexually Transmitted Infections Awareness Month, so it is important to practice safe sex by using condoms, getting vaccinated against STIs, and getting tested regularly to protect yourself and your sexual partners from the potentially harmful effects of STIs.
Can you have an STI without symptoms?
Yes, it is possible to have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) without experiencing any symptoms. This is known as an asymptomatic infection, and it can occur with many STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and human papillomavirus (HPV), among others. These infections can be spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex.
Many people who have an STI may not know they are infected because they don’t have any symptoms. This is especially true for women, who may have an asymptomatic infection with chlamydia or gonorrhea, which can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.
It’s important to note that even if you don’t have any symptoms, you can still transmit an STD to your sexual partner. That’s why regular testing is essential for anyone who is sexually active, regardless of whether they have symptoms or not.
Talk to your healthcare provider about getting tested. STI testing typically involves a physical exam and blood, urine, or swab tests, depending on the type of STI being tested for. It is recommended that sexually active individuals get tested for STIs regularly, especially if they have multiple sexual partners or engage in unprotected sex.
And if you think you may have been exposed to an STD, get tested right away and avoid sexual contact until you have been cleared by your healthcare provider.
