At some point or the other, we have experienced either an STI or an STD in our lives. It is fairly common but there’s plenty of stigma and not much discussion around the topic. Owing to sex being a taboo subject, there is very little conversation around women’s sexual health. If you’re wondering what’s the difference between an STI and an STD, we’re here to help you out.
STD vs STI: What is the difference?
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“STD means Sexually Transmitted Disease, whereas STI means Sexually Transmitted Infection. Both the terms are generally used interchangeably but there is a slight and technical difference between them,” says Dr. Paritosh Baghel, Consultant Internal Medicine, SL Raheja Hospital, Mumbai-Fortis Associate. “Sexually Transmitted Infections(STIs) are infections that have not yet developed into diseases, and can include bacteria, viruses, or parasites such as pubic lice. They are usually transmitted during sexual activities through an exchange of bodily fluids or skin-to-skin contact where the infection is active,” he adds.
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It isn’t necessary that by just having sex, you’re going to get an STI. Dr. Baghel explains that even non-sexual activities in which bodily fluids are exchanged can transmit STIs. For example, people who share needles could infect each other with HIV. Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), on the other hand, are diseases that result from STIs and therefore suggest a more serious problem. “All STDs start out as infections. Pathogens enter the body and begin multiplying. When these pathogens disrupt normal body functions or damage structures in the body, they become STDs,” Dr. Baghel elaborates.
What are the various types of STIs?
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As the term suggests, STIs are spread predominantly by sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some STIs can also be spread through non-sexual means such as via blood or blood products. Many STIs—including Syphilis, Hepatitis B, HIV, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Herpes, and HPV— can also be transmitted from mother to child during pregnancy and childbirth.
Symptoms of STIs
If you’re wondering whether you have a possible STI, Dr. Manju Gupta, Senior Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Noida tell us what to look out for:
1. Bumps, sores, or rashes in or around the genitals, anus, buttocks, or thighs.
2. Changes in the amount, colour, or smell of vaginal discharge.
3. Unusual vaginal bleeding or spotting between periods or after sex.
4. Painful or burning urination.
5. Pain during vaginal or anal penetration.
6. Pelvic pain.
7. Tingling or itching around the genitals.
8. Genital rash.
How to avoid STIs and STDs?
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“Avoiding exposure to infected bodily fluids is the best way to avoid STIs and STDs,” says Dr. Baghel. The best way for sexually active individuals to safeguard their health is by scheduling regular doctor visits and getting tested routinely for STIs and STDs.
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