back to top What is an STD? What is an STI?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are diseases that are mainly passed from one person to another during sexual contact.
The term sexually transmitted infection (STI) is increasingly being used instead of STD, because some sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia, do not cause any pain or unpleasant symptoms such as blisters. Many people may never know that they have been infected unless they are tested in a clinic.
However, having no symptoms does not mean that someone does not have an infection that needs treating or an infection that can lead to a disease or medical condition.
The common way to prevent the transmission of STIs or STDs is to avoid unprotected sexual contact, whether it is vaginal, anal or oral. However, some STIs or STDs such as herpes can still be passed even if a condom or dental dam is used.
It is important to educate yourself about how STIs or STDs are transmitted and how to safeguard your sexual health, including identifying symptoms and seeking medical help early.
Under STD/STI topics, you will find links to pages that contain more information about common STDs/STIs, including: how to prevent transmission, information about treatment and STD symptoms and pictures, where applicable.