About STIs: Introduction to STIs

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are pathogens (viruses, bacteria, fungi or parasites) that cause infection through sexual contact.

Over 30 types of these pathogens are known to be transmitted through sexual contact, affecting millions of people worldwide.

Although often used interchangeably, STDs and STIs are not the same. A sexually transmitted infection (STI) refers to the pathogens transmitted through sexual contact, while a sexually transmitted disease (STD) describes the disease that develops from an STI.

Not all STIs develop into STDs, but all STDs start from an STI. Additionally, an STI can lead to different types of STDs. For instance, HPV, an STI, can lead to cervical cancer, oral cancer, and genital warts.

The primary goal of public health and healthcare is to prevent and treat infections before they develop into disease. As a result, many publications and articles use STIs more often.

However, STD is still used when referring to the disease.

Over 1 million STIs are acquired daily among people aged 15–49, most of which are asymptomatic and curable. The year 2020 alone saw 374 million new STI infections.

STIs directly affect sexual and reproductive health, causing issues like stigma, infertility, cancers, and pregnancy complications. They also increase the risk of HIV.

Moreover, STIs impact not just couples but also their offspring. For instance, in 2022, over 1.1 million pregnant women were infected with syphilis, leading to 390,000 adverse birth outcomes.

STIs can spread in many ways, including through vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Infections can also spread through shared tools like contaminated drug needles or parasite-contaminated towels.

Finally, some STIs can be transmitted from the mother during pregnancy, childbirth, and breastfeeding (through milk and skin contact).

Most STIs can be cured with medications, but some, like hepatitis B, herpes, HIV (human immunodeficiency viruses), and HPV (human papillomavirus), are incurable. Even so, these STIs can be managed with treatments.

Ultimately, prevention is better than cure. Vaccines that prevent hepatitis B and HPV are widely available. Consider taking these vaccines to protect yourself.

Stigma has a significant impact on the spread of STIs. It often makes it hard for people to seek help or discuss their condition.

This judgement can prevent individuals from accessing vaccines, practising prevention, or following prescribed treatments.