The 5 Most Common STIs

Talking about sexually transmitted infections may not be the most comfortable conversation topic; however, it’s an important part of sexual health for sexually active women. At Diana Health, we strive to empower you with evidence-based information so that you can make informed decisions, get screened, practice safer sex, and keep your body healthy. If you or someone you know has experienced an STI, you don’t have to be ashamed! Information is power, and we’re here to support you. Learn more about the 5 most common STIs in the United States below.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is caused by a bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis. It is sometimes referred to as a “silent” sexually transmitted infection because many women don’t experience symptoms. 

When women do have symptoms, they can include:

• Spotting between periods
• Discomfort during vaginal intercourse
• Pain during urination
•  A yellowish-colored discharge that may have an odor

Because chlamydia infections may occur without symptoms, regular screening is recommended. When chlamydia is diagnosed, it can be easily treated and cured with antibiotics. However, if untreated, it may progress to pelvic inflammatory disease, which can cause serious reproductive health problems, including infertility. 

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is another common sexually transmitted infection that is caused by bacteria. The bacteria that causes this STI is called Neisseria gonorrhoeae. In addition to infecting the female reproductive tract, gonorrhea can also infect the rectum and throat. 

Some women have no symptoms when they have gonorrhea, while others have yellowish or greenish discharge that often has an unusual odor. Other symptoms include: 

• Painful urination
• Spotting between their periods
• Pain during vaginal intercourse. 
• Oral sex can lead to gonorrhea in the throat, causing a sore throat, neck swelling, or tenderness

Gonorrhea is treated with an antibiotic, which is especially important since untreated gonorrhea can progress to pelvic inflammatory disease that is associated with infertility, ectopic pregnancy, pelvic discomfort, and an increased risk of HIV. 

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human papillomavirus is a group of viruses. Within this group, there are 40 types of HPV that are transmitted sexually. Human papillomavirus is the most common STI globally and most HPV infections will clear on their own and not lead to serious health problems. However, there are some higher risk types of HPV that can lead to genital warts and even cervical cancer. This is why pap smears are so important, as it typically takes years for infected cells to progress to cancer. If precancerous changes are detected that have a higher likelihood of progressing to cancer, treatment can occur. 

Genital warts caused by HPV are usually flesh-colored or gray. They can be raised, flat, alone, or in a cluster. Sexually transmitted HPV causes genital warts and warts in the anal area, but other types of HPV can lead to warts on other areas of the body. The HPV vaccine helps prevent infections from the highest-risk strains of HPV, those that are most likely to progress to cancer.  

Genital Herpes

Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 and/or 2. Although type 1 is typically associated with oral herpes (called cold sores), HSV 1 can also cause genital infections. Herpes simplex type 2 predominantly infects the genitals. Although herpes infections can occur in the vagina like the other STIs, it can also be transmitted through oral sex, anal sex, and contact with someone’s infected skin without intercourse. People with genital herpes can transmit the infection to others, even though not currently experiencing symptoms. 

When people have symptoms, they may include painful, small blisters commonly on the genitals, buttocks, or thighs. Some women have itching and tingling before they develop these sores. Women who have genital sores may have painful urination, and flu-like symptoms are common during a first outbreak. 

Herpes infections are challenging since the virus stays in the body even after treatment with antiviral medications used to manage symptoms, and reactivation can lead to future outbreaks. When reactivation occurs, the outbreaks are not usually as severe. 

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis, often called “trich,” is caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. In addition to the vagina, it also often infects the bladder and urethra, leading to painful urination. Vaginal and vulvar itching, burning, or irritation is common, along with a frothy, greenish-yellow vaginal discharge that has a strong odor. The infection can also make the vagina red and swollen, and women may have pain during vaginal intercourse. Although these symptoms often occur with trich, some women may not have symptoms. 

The good news with trichomoniasis is that a single dose of antibiotics is all that is needed to effectively treat most of these infections. When taking the medication typically used to treat trich, called metronidazole, it is especially important to avoid alcohol use. 

Informed and Empowered

Now that you better understand these common sexually transmitted infections, you will be better able to prevent the infections and seek treatment if they do occur.. Since sexually transmitted infections do not necessarily cause symptoms from the transmitting partner or for the partner to who they are transmitted, it is important to see your gynecologist, Certified Nurse Midwife, or primary care provider for STI screening. This is especially important if you are under the age of 25, if you are with a new sexual partner, or have multiple partners. If your partner has symptoms or tells you about an STI diagnosis, it is important for you to go to a healthcare provider to get checked. Honest and open communication between intimate partners as well as between you and your healthcare provider, is incredibly important. 

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above or are concerned about a possible STI, visit your local Diana Health practice and get tested. These infections have well-studied, safe treatments that are very effective, especially when used early in the course of an infection. If you are prescribed an antibiotic or antiviral medication, it is essential to complete the entire course of treatment. Also, even though it may be uncomfortable, it’s important to inform your intimate partner of your diagnosis so that they can get treated. Remember, they may not have any symptoms even if they passed the infection to you. While you and your intimate partner are undergoing treatment, abstinence is essential to prevent reinfection. 

At Diana Health, we are here for you. We care about your reproductive health and overall well-being. Reach out to us with any questions; there is never a question too big or too small. We’re experts at answering personal questions and discussing things that might feel uncomfortable. We’re here to provide you with a safe emotional space. Book a visit with a provider today.