What Is It?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that are spread from person to person through sexual contact, including oral sex, anal sex and the sharing of sex toys. These diseases can be passed through any contact between the genitals of one person and the genitals, anus, mouth or eyes of another person.

STDs are among the most common infectious diseases in the United States. More than 15 million Americans are diagnosed with an STD every year.

There are many different STDs, but the most common ones in the United States are herpes simplex virus type II (genital herpes), chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV and genital warts. Some infections that can be spread by sex, such as the hepatitis B virus, are not traditionally referred to as STDs because they are spread primarily by other means.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the type of infection, although some people who become infected with an STD may not develop symptoms at all.

Some symptoms of STDs include:

• Painful or painless ulcers on the skin of the genitalia of both sexes and in the vagina in women

• Fever

• Swollen glands

• Abdominal pain

• Discharge from the penis

• Vaginal discharge

• Burning discomfort during urination

• Pain with sexual intercourse