Are STDs Contagious?

Are you worried about a potential sexually transmitted disease (STD)? If you are sexually active with a partner who has had multiple sexual partners, there’s a chance for the spread of an STD. No one is immune. 

If you think you’re experiencing symptoms of a possible STD, it’s vital to your health to get tested right away. 

STDS: What Are They?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are spread through sex or sexual activity by a person infected with an STD. They can pass from one individual to another by blood, semen, or vaginal and other bodily fluids. Some common STDs include:

• Chlamydia

• HIV/AIDS

• HPV

• Genital herpes

• Gonorrhea

• Hepatitis B

• Trichomoniasis

Even with protection, you can’t fully prevent the possibility of contracting an STD. Your risk is greater if you: 

• Have sex with someone who has had multiple partners 

• Have more than one sex partner 

• Share needles when injecting intravenous drugs

What Are the Symptoms?

STDs sometimes come with signs, and sometimes they are not easily noticeable. If you are experiencing any of the following STD symptoms, get tested to be sure:

• Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area

• Unusual vaginal bleeding

• Pain during sex

• Painful or burning urination

• Discharge from the penis

• Sore, swollen lymph nodes

• Lower abdominal pain

Get Tested Right Away

Timing is of the essence when it comes to knowing if you have an STD, as receiving treatment is important to prevent further infection.

At Positive Options, our first priority is your health and well-being. That’s why we can provide referrals for many services or resources we cannot provide, including STD testing. We can connect you to a local medical provider so you can get the answers you need about your sexual health.

Contact us today to learn more about our free, confidential care and referrals. Peace comes with knowing where your health stands.