Sexually transmitted infections (also known as STIs) are infectious diseases that spread from person to person through intimate contact. STIs can affect men and women of all ages and backgrounds who are having sex — it doesn’t matter if they’re gay or straight.
STIs are more than just an embarrassment. They’re a serious health problem. If left untreated, some STIs can cause permanent damage such as infertility and even death. If you have sex, you may contract an STI, along with subtle or noticeable STI symptoms. Straight or gay, married or single, you’re vulnerable to STIs and STI symptoms, whether you engage in oral, anal or vaginal sex.
Who is at risk of getting an STI?
If you’re having unprotected sex, you are at risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection. There are many different types of STIs, all with their own symptoms and signs – and many show no symptoms at all. That’s why it’s important to be tested regularly for STI infections if you have unprotected sex, especially if you have many partners.
Helpful Information
Centers for Disease Control (CDC) https://www.cdc.gov/std/
Informative Links
Gonorrhea https://www.cdc.gov/std/gonorrhea/default.htm
Chlamydia https://www.cdc.gov/std/chlamydia/default.htm
Herpes https://www.cdc.gov/std/Herpes/default.htm
Syphilis general facts https://www.cdc.gov/std/syphilis/default.htm
Syphilis and gay men https://www.cdc.gov/std/Syphilis/STDFact-MSM-Syphilis.htm
HPV general facts https://www.cdc.gov/std/hpv/default.htm