Here Are The Top 20 STIs and How to Avoid (and Treat) Them

According to statistics, more than half of all people on earth will have an STI at some point in their lifetime — that’s a lot of communicable diseases! 

Unfortunately, most people don’t know what it all means and even once they test positive, they aren't eager to learn about how or why they contracted an STI — they just want to get treated. That’s a shame. 

Each year, one in four teenagers contract an STI. A national survey of U.S. physicians discovered that fewer than a third of doctors routinely screened people for STIs. That's shocking. If you can't count on your healthcare provider to offer you a screeening, you'll have to become your own health advocate. But first, you need to know how to take control of your own sexual health.  

Here's a list of all the known STIs, so you can have the information at your fingertips, literally. It’s time we equip ourselves with this knowledge — not only for our own sexual health, but for our partners's sexual health as well.

Swipe left to scroll through our list, and click the + button for more information.

Knowledge is power. Sexual empowerment includes taking responsibility for your sexual health.

WHAT IS IT? Amembiasis is a disease caused by the parasite Entamoeba histolytica. In essence, it’s an infection of the intestines. Symptoms can include loose stools, abdominal cramping, and stomach pain, but it can turn deadly. Still, most people won’t experience significant symptoms. Because many people with HIV are already experiencing similar symptoms due to the disease or antiretroviral medications, it can be easy to miss. 

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? The only way E. histolytica can enter the body is by ingesting the miscroscopic cysts the parasite leaves in food, water, or fecal matter. Higher incidences of amebiasis are in developing countries. In industrialized countries, gay and bisexual men are among the highest risk groups, as are travelers and recent immigrants. Once ingested, the parasites reproduce in the digestive tract and migrate to the large intestine. That’s when they burrow into the intestinal wall or colon, causing bloody diarrhea, colitis, and tissue destruction. An infected person can then spread the parasites by releasing new cysts in their own feces. 

HOW LIKELY ARE YOU TO GET IT? If you’re into rimming, it is very possible to catch amebiasis from an infected partner. Men who have sex with men are one of the highest risk groups 

IS IT STILL IN THE U.S? Although it is more common in people living in tropical areas with poor sanitary conditions, it can and will affect anyone living with underdeveloped sanitation. According to the Merck Manual, it is most common in the Indian subcontinent, parts of Central and South America, and parts of Africa. While it’s rarer in the U.S., it is still here. Acccording to a 2011 study, "the prevalence of E. histolytica infection in the United States has been estimated to be 4 percent."

IS THERE A CURE? Yes. For uncomplicated cases of Amembiasis, there is a 10-day course of metronidazole given orally. A doctor may also prescribe medication to control nausea if needed. If left untreated, your organs can become infected. At that point, surgery might be mandatory. Generally, however, people respond well to treatment. 

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? Seeing as it needs to be ingested, using a barrier is always a good option, especially when rimming and when you or your partner is experiencing stomach issues.

WHAT IS IT? Bacterial Vaginosis happens when there is too much of certain bacteria in the vagina, which throws off its normal balance. Because BV is simply an imbalance of natural vaginal bacteria, it is not truly an STI, but rather a vaginal infection. Most people don’t notice any symptoms at all. Sometimes there is an unusual amount of discharge, which may be grayish-white or yellowish in color. There can also be an annoying “fishy” odor which is usually more noticeable after having sex.

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING? Anyone with a vagina can get BV, so transgender men may also be susceptible. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is the most common vaginal infection in women ages 15-44, with nearly 30 percent of this demographic experiencing BV. Though not technically an STI, BV does seem to happen more if you’re sexually active—it very rarely affects those who have never had sex. Basically, anything that throws off your vagina’s natural balance can increase your likelihood of getting BV as to things like douching, having multiple sex partners, and switching back and forth between anal and vaginal sex. Vaginal and anal intercourse tend to increase your chances of getting this infection. But anyone with a vagina can get BV. And yes, BV can be transferred during female to female sex.

IS IT STILL IN THE U.S? The CDC estimates that over 20 million people in the United States have this infection.

IS THERE A CURE? Your own immune system will usually “cure” BV. Much like a cold or flu, the body will fight off this infection on its own, and the vagina will return to its natural balance of bacteria.

HOW IS IT TREATED? If the infection is severe or not going away on its own, your doctor can prescribe antibiotics to treat BV. Though not usually a serious infection, BV is dangerous in pregnant women. It is linked to miscarriage and low birth weight, so if you are pregnant or think you will become pregnant soon — and think you might have BV — see your doctor right away. Being HIV-positive means you do need to make sure the meds don't interfere with your antiretrovirals.

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? Condoms do seem to decrease your chances of getting BV. Cleaning toys and changing condoms between anal and vaginal penetration can reduce risks. 

WHAT IS IT? Candidiasis is a fungal infection cased by yeasts belonging to the genus Candida, which is normally present in our bodies but can experience an overgrowth. Candidiasis in the vagina is commonly referred to as an “yeast infection." Candidiasis can also develop in the mouth or throat, which is called “thrush," or oropharyngeal candidiasis.

SLANG TERM? “Yeast Infection.” 

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING? According to the CDC, nearly 75 percent of all adult women will have at least one “yeast infection” in their lifetime, so the chances are pretty high. It is rare for men to have genital candidiasis, but it can happen. People with HIV have higher risks of getting candidiasis. The CDC reports 9 to 31 percent of those with HIV may experience the condition, and "Recurrent infections can be a sign of HIV disease progression," according to NAM's AIDSMap.

HOW LIKELY ARE YOU TO GET IT? Anyone with a vagina is prone to getting a yeast infection, that includes trans men who haven't had bottom surgery, especially those who are on testosterone therapy, as that can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the body. Those who practice anal sex, should clean the penis or penetrative toy, or put on a new condom before switching from anal to vaginal sex. 

IS THERE A CURE?  Over-the-counter treatments are available for vaginal candidiasis, and as a result more women are diagnosing and treating it themselves. Antifungal drugs also exist in liquid form for thrush. Those who are living with HIV are more susceptible to repeated candidiasis infections, and may need to worry about drug interactions so should check with their doctors.

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? Maybe. Many times Candida can become unbalanced due to hormonal changes, or a weakened immune system. However, using condoms, especially when having anal sex (and switching or removing prior to vaginal penetration) can prevent fecal matter from entering the vagina, and that can reduce the risk of vaginal candidiasis. Similarly, using a barrier while rimming can lower the chance of developing oral candidiasis. 

WHAT IS IT? Chancroid is caused by the bacteria Haemophilus ducreyi. It is an infection that causes painful open sores on the genitals, and is sometimes accompanied by swollen, tender lymph nodes in the groin. The open sores are due to the bacteria attacking skin tissue. The ulcer itself is likely to bleed and produce a fluid that can be spread during oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse. Symptoms occur within a week after exposure. For women, it is usually less noticeable — a few bumps on the labia, or between the labia and anus — and may be limited to painful urination or defecation, painful intercourse, rectal bleeding, or vaginal discharge. For men, they might notice a small red bump on the genitals that may change to an open sore within a day. An ulcer can form on any area, including the penis and scrotum.

SLANG TERM? “Genital Sores.” 

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? Although anyone who is sexually active is at risk of chancroid, according to the CDC surveillance statistics, the number of people who get chancroid in a single year has been falling. In 2009 there were 28 cases in the U.S., by 2013 that had dropped to 10. It's still good to get tested and have a dialog with your partner if you notice open genital sores.

IS IT STILL IN THE U.S? Yes, periodic outbreaks of chancroid have occurred in the U.S. in minority populations in the inner cities, though the prevalence has declined significantly. The disease is also common in sub-Saharan Africa among men who have frequent sexual contact with sex workers.

IS THERE A CURE? In order to be diagnosed properly, a physician needs to take samples of the fluid, then send it to the laboratory for analysis. It can be treated with several prescription antibiotics. The infection may clear up without treatment, but medication will help you recover faster and minimize scarring. If left untreated, chancroid might cause permanent scarring on the genitals of men and lead to serious complication and infections in women. Because it creates open sores, chancroid can increase your risk of getting or transmitting HIV. Being HIV-positive and having chancroid can mean sores take longer to heal. 

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? Absolutely. In addition to the use of condoms, limiting the number of sexual partners is also a good safety measure. 

WHAT IS IT? Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection. Most people who have Chlamydia have no symptoms. If they do have symptoms, they may not appear for several weeks. Men or women can get Chlamydia by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has it. Symptoms in women can be an abnormal vaginal discharge, or a burning sensation when urinating. Symptoms in men can include a discharge from their penis, a burning sensation when urinating, and pain and swelling in one or both testicles. If untreated, Chlamydia can lead to serious problems, like reproductive issues. If you are pregnant and have Chlamydia, you can pass the infection to your baby during delivery. According to NAM's AIDSMap, Chlamydia may make a person with HIV more likely to transmit HIV "because untreated sexually transmitted infections can increase HIV viral load in genital fluids.

SLANG NAME? "The Clam"

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? Chlamydia is most common in sexually active people under the age of 25. This is partially because young people often engage in unsafe sex practices. Anyone who has sex can get Chlamydia through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. If your partner has a penis, you can still get Chlamydia even if they do not ejaculate. As of 2015, 479 people out of every 100,000 Americans got Chlamydia. And rates continue to rise. 

IS IT STILL IN THE U.S.?  Yes And it is getting more prevalent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's 2015 Sexually Transmitted Disease Surveillance Report. Over 1.5 million cases of Chlamydia were reported in 2015, the highest number of annual cases of any sexually transmitted infection reported to the CDC.

IS THERE A CURE? Yes, Chlamydia can be cured with antibiotics prescribed by your doctor. It is important that you take all of your medication as prescribed and follow guidelines (including not having sex until the treatment ends). Repeated infection with Chlamydia isn't uncommon. You should be tested again about three months after you are treated, even if your sex partner was treated too.

HOW IS IT TREATED? Your doctor can do lab tests to diagnose Chlamydia, and then prescribe the appropriate antibiotics.

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? Consistent and correct use of latex barriers reduces the risk for Chlamydia transmission.

WHAT IS IT?Cryphtosporidium is a parasite that causes watery diarrhea and other stomach issues. For HIV-positive people, a weakened immune system can lead to severe or life-threatening illnesses. The parasite can be spread in different ways, including eating unwashed fruits and vegetables. The most common way to get it however is by swallowing contaminated water. You can also get it by putting something in your mouth or accidentally swallowing something that has come into contact with the stool of a person or animal infected with the parasite. Symptoms generally begin two to ten days after becoming infected with the parasite, and typically last one to two weeks. 

SLANG TERM? “Crypto” 

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? According to a 2015 report by the CDC, "An estimated 748,000 cryptosporidiosis cases occur annually, although less than 2 percent are reported ... cryptosporidiosis was considered an opportunistic infection in HIV-[positive] patients, with the ability to cause profuse, watery diarrhea, and life-threatening wasting, and malabsorption. However, the incidence of cryptosporidiosis among HIV-infected persons has decreased since the introduction of highly active antiretroviral therapy for HIV infection." Any sexual activity involving rectum-to-mouth play will increase the chances of getting infected with the parasite, including rimming.

IS IT STILL IN THE U.S? Yes, cryptosporidium is a leading cause of waterborne disease among humans in the United States.

IS THERE A CURE? Yes. Most people with healthy immune systems recover without treatment. Diarrhea can be managed by drinking plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration. HIV-positive people who think they’ve contracted Crypto should contact their healthcare provider.

WHAT IS IT?Genital warts are soft growths on the genitals that can cause discomfort, itching, and pain. Since they’re caused by the Human Papillomavirus, chances of getting genital warts is extremely high. In fact, 79 million people in the U.S. are living with HPV, currently. It is transmitted through skin to skin contact. You can even get them on the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat via oral sex.

SLANG NAME? “Percy”

HOW LIKELY ARE YOU TO GET IT? HPV is transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact. You can get it vaginally, anally, or from oral sex with someone who has the virus. So basically, it doesn’t discriminate. According to the CDC, "HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active men and women get the virus at some point in their lives," and 14 million Americans get HPV every year. The number of cases of genital warts continues to climb, but is significantly lower than cases of HPV, for example there were over 400,000 cases of genital warts reported in 2011. 

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? Just like HPV, genital warts are transmitted through skin to skin contact. So you’re not entirely protected by wearing a condom.

WHAT IS IT? Gonorrhea is caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, a bacteria that grows and multiplies easily in mucus membranes. It can infect both men and women in the genitals, rectum, and throat, and is especially common among young people between 15 and 24. Some men might have no symptoms at all, but those who do usually experience a burning sensation when urinating; a white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis; or painful/swollen testicles. For women, most experience painful or burning sensation when urinating, increased vaginal discharge, or vaginal bleeding between periods.

SLANG TERM? “Clap” or “Drip.”

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? It is spread by contact with infected bodily fluids, so as long as you are in contact with a partner who has gonorrhea, you are at risk. According to the CDC, as of 2015, 141 men out of 100,000 and 107 women out of every 100,000 has gonorrhea. 

CAN I GET IT FROM ORAL SEX? Whenever it does pass from someone who is giving oral sex, it’s usually because the vagina, cervix, anus, penis or mouth come into contact with an infected person’s secretions. And unfortunately, gonorrhea is known to live in the throat and eyelids from time to time. The bacteria causing gonorrhea often sets up shop in the throat and the lining of the eyelid, which can lead to eye infection and discharge from the eye itself (hand-to-eye contact during sex is also another way for it to pass). It also lives on the surfaces of the urethra, vagina, cervix, endometrium, fallopian tubes, anus, and rectum. Any sexually active person can get gonorrhea through barrier free vagina, anal, or oral sex. The CDC recommends men who have sex with men get tested for gonorrhea every year.

IS IT STILL IN THE U.S? Yes and it is becoming more widespread. According to the CDC, there are now more than 800,000 new cases in the U.S. every year.

IS THERE A CURE? Gonorrhea can still be cured with the right treatment provided by your doctor. However, as we previously reported, we’re headed to a world where there are strains of gonorrhea that we aren’t able to treat. Over the last 70 or so years that we’ve been using antibiotics to treat gonorrhea, the bacteria has gotten better and better at beating the drugs we’ve used to kill it, and a strain resistant to all available drugs entered the U.S. last year. New studies have shown that the daily use of mouthwash might cure oral gonorrhea.

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT ME? Absolutely. Because antibiotic resistant strains are becoming more common, it’s important to use a barrier when having sex, including during oral sex, to prevent getting or transmitting gonorrhea. HIV prevention medications like PrEP will not prevent STIs like gonorrhea. Regular testing is also important. You and your partner can get tested together and make safer sex plans as a team. Reducing the number of sexual partners you have can also help reduce your risk of getting gonorrhea.

WHAT IS IT? Viral hepatitis is inflammation of the liver caused by a virus. All types of viruses — A, B, C, D, and E — cause acute, or short-term, viral hepatitis. B, C, and D can also cause chronic hepatitis, which means it’s long-term (sometimes lifelong). This can lead to cirrhosis, liver failure, liver cancer, and death.

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? 

* Hep A is spread primarily through food or water contaminated by feces from an infected person, so the risk is higher among international travelers, people who have sexual activity with a  person who has hep A, childcare workers, men who have sex with men, and drug users. Oral-to-fecal contact like rimming, is one of the biggest culprits. According to the CDC, cases of hep A are declining in the U.S. In 2014, there were an estimated 2,500 acute hepatitis A infections.

* Hep B is spread through contact with blood from someone with hep B, which can happen either through sex, sharing needles, or blood exchange. Gay and bi men, people having sex with an hep B-positive partner, injection drug users, infants of hep B-positive mothers, and health care workers are among the highest risk groups. There are rare cases where hep B has been transferred by saliva through biting — not by kissing. Hep B is also declining in the U.S., where the CDC reports 2,953 acute cases were reported in 2014. However, there are up to 2.2 million Americans living with chronic hep B. 

* Hep C is spread primarily through contact with blood, but can also be transmitted through sexual contact, via childbirth, or through sharing needles.  While hep C can be transmitted by vaginal or anal sex, it doesn’t happen very often. Catching it from your partner who’s giving you oral sex is also rare, unless they have fresh piercings or bloody gums. After a long decline, the number of new cases of hep C has been increasing in the U.S., where the CDC reports 2,194 acute cases were reported in 2014. There are estimated to be up to 3.9 million people living with chronic hep C in the U.S.

* Hep D is also spread through contact with infected blood, and only occurs at the same time as infection with hep B or in people who are already infected with hep B (see above). 

* Hep E is spread through food or water contaminated by feces from an infected person. it is uncommon in the U.S. 

IS THERE A CURE? Hep C can now be cured in as little as 12 weeks. This is particularly good news for those who have both hep C and are HIV-positive, because the CDC reports that liver disease is the leading cause of non-AIDS-related deaths among people with HIV. Hep A and E usually resolve on their own over several weeks, while the others can become chronic. For hep B, drugs approved for treatment include alpha interferon and peginterferon, which slow the replication of the virus in the body while boosting the immune system. People who develop acute hepatitis B can be treated with an antiviral drug such as lamivudine Chronic hep D is usually treated with interferon, although other potential treatments are under study.

WHAT IS IT? Well, there are two types: oral (HSV1) and genital (HSV2). Oral Herpes is a virus that can cause painful sores on the lips, gums, tongue, roof of your mouth, and inside your cheeks. Genital herpes can be either HSV1 or HSV2 — yes you can get oral herpes on your genitals. The virus can be symptomless or can appear as blisters on or around the genitals and rectum.

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? According to the CDC, more than half the population in the U.S. have HSV1, oral herpes and one out of every six people ages 14 to 49 have genital herpes. Most people don't know they have herpes. Oral herpes can be transmitted to people of all ages from birth, a simple kiss on the cheek or lips, and from sharing food/cosmetics. Genital herpes can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

SLANG NAME?  "the herps"

HOW IS IT TREATED? There is no cure for herpes. Antiviral medications can, however, prevent or shorten outbreaks during the period of time the person takes the medication. In addition, daily suppressive therapy (i.e. daily use of antiviral medication) for herpes can reduce the likelihood of transmission to partners. 

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? It helps, but the virus can be transmitted through contact with skin. If your partner has any visible outbreak it’s important to avoid contact when, NAM's AIDSMap reports, "blisters are present, but it can also be transmitted when sores are not present, if HSV is reproducing. Herpes is more likely to reproduce in people with weak immune systems." They add this warning, "It is thought that herpes may act as a 'co-factor' in HIV disease progression, activating HIV and making it easier for HIV to infect certain cells."

WHAT IS IT? HIV or human immunodeficiency virus is  spread through blood, genital fluids (semen, pre-cum, rectal fluids, vaginal fluids), and breast milk. The virus attacks the body’s immune system, specifically the CD4 cells (or T cells), which are the body’s main defense to fight infections. Without them, the body can't fight off infections and other illnesses. When the disease progresses and CD4 count drops below 200 cells/mm the doctor may issue a new diagnosis of HIV stage 4 (or AIDS). Because  treatment exists to suppresses the virus, most HIV-positive people on antiretroviral medication do not progress and can become “undetectable,” which means they’re virally suppressed and are unable to pass the virus along to an HIV-negative individual. 

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? If an HIV-positive partner is undetectable, the chances of them transmitting the virus is nearly impossible. In addition, if you are HIV-negative and on PrEP, you are about 99 percent less likely to get HIV even if you don't use a condom with someone who is HIV-positive. HIV rates are higher among different demographics and according to the CDC, risks are of transmitting HIV are higher for different acts. Being the insertive partner in vaginal sex carries a very low risk while being the receptive partner in anal sex carries the highest risk. Men who top during anal sex have a lesser risk of getting HIV in their bloodstream than those who bottom. 

WHO’S MOST AT RISK? 

Although research on trans women is limited, the CDC reports that "a systematic review (Herbst et al.) of 29 published studies showed that 28 percent of transgender women" were HIV-positive, and "56 percent of black/African American transgender women had positive HIV test results."  Gay and bisexual men and other men who have sex with men are also more affected by HIV. Even though gay and bisexual men made up an estimated 2 percent of the population in 2013, they also accounted for 55 percent of those living with HIV. In 2016, the CDC predicted that all things staying the same, one out of every six MSM will become HIV-positive in their lifetimes. Those rates were even higher for gay and bi men of color, one in four Latinos and fifty percent of African-American gay men are predicted to become HIV-positive in their lifetimes, in things don't change. While women are less at risk than MSM, they still make up nearly a quarter of people living with HIV in the U.S. Of the 1.2 million  Americans living with HIV, the CDC reports, only 39 percent are receiving medical care, and 30 percent had achieved viral suppression. A lack of access to care is a major reason why those most at risk for contracting HIV are left defenseless.

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT ME? Yes but even when worn correctly and consistently they aren't 100 percent effective. Over 40 percent of both HIV-positive and HIV-negative gay and bisexual men admit to having sex without a condom. Wearing a condom while also taking Truvada as PrEP (a once-a-day HIV prevention pill) may provide one of the most fool proof ways to prevent HIV transmission — but even PrEP alone provides a significantly higher level of protection than condoms alone. 

WHAT ARE OTHER SAFER SEX TIPS? Oral sex has lower risk for HIV transmission than either vaginal or anal sex. When giving oral sex, always spit or swallow ejaculate. Do not let it sit in your mouth for long periods of time, as it might make its way through open sores or damaged tissue in the mouth. Swallowing is perfectly safe,according to San Francisco AIDS Foundation. Once semen makes its way past the mouth, stomach acid and enzymes in the esophagus kill any HIV in it, so swallowing is actually one of the safest things to do after a blow job. When receiving oral sex, it can benefit both of you not to jab with such force that it tears delicate tissue around a penis, vagina, or inside your partner’s mouth, thus creating a wider opportunity for fluids to seep through.

WHAT IS IT? There are over 150 strains of HPV. Each virus is given a number (it’s HPV type). Some HPV types can cause warts (papillomas) and some lead to cancer. Men and women can get cancer of the mouth/throat, anus/rectum caused by HPV. Men can also get penile cancer. Women can get cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancer.  Those who have anal sex should can get anal pap smears to test for HPV in the rectum.

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? Almost everyone gets HPV at some point in their lives. According to the CDC, 79 million Americans (approximately 1 in 4 people)  have HPV and 14 million people are diagnosed each year. The virus is transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact. You can get it vaginally, anally, or from oral sex with someone who has the virus.

CAN IT BE CURED? No. But there are now vaccines available to prevent people from getting the strains that most commonly cause cancer. The CDC recommends both boys and girls receive vaccinations, and young people up to 26 years old who are women, transgender individuals, people living with HIV, or men who have sex with men.

WILL A CONDOM PRTECT YOU? Only partially. Since HPV is transmitted through skin to skin contact, you can still get and transmit it even if you wear a condom.

WHAT IS IT? Lymphogranuloma venereum is a chronic infection of the lymphatic system, caused by three types of bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis — not to be confused with genital Chlamydia. Research shows that rectal exposure in women or MSM can result in digestive issues that mimic inflammatory bowel disease. Symptoms can include rectal discharge, anal pain, constipation, and fever. If LGV it is not treated early, it can lead to chronic colorectal fistulas and strictures.

Slang Term? "LGV"

WHAT ARE THE CHANCES OF GETTING IT? It’s more common in Central and South America than North America. It still isn't widespread in the U.S., but outbreaks do occur. In 2015 the CDC reported on a Michigan outbreak involved 38 gay men, most of whom were also HIV-positive. That fits with reports in Europe about outbreaks there among men who have sex with men.  According to NAM's AIDSMap, in U.K., "The two activities most commonly implicated in LGV transmission are unprotected anal intercourse and fisting. Sharing of sex toys can also lead to LGV transmission." However, anyone who has unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex can catch LGV.

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? Yes. Proper use of condoms will reduce your risk of getting LGV. AIDSMap also recommends, "using latex gloves for fisting. If you are having sex with more than one person, a new condom or glove should be used with each [person]. If condoms or gloves are not used, thorough washing between partners is better than nothing. Using condoms with shared sex toys or cleaning them thoroughly with hot soapy water between uses also reduces the risk of passing on LGV."

WHAT IS IT? Molluscum contagiosum is a skin infection caused by a virus. The virus produces raised lesions, or bumps, on the upper layers of your skin. Molluscum contagiosum is quite contagious and most common in children. It is not exclusively an STI, but can be transmitted sexually. The small bumps caused by molluscum contagiosum are usually painless and disappear on their own. Scars rarely occur, and only usually when left untreated. The length of time the virus lasts varies for each person, but the bumps can last from two months to four years. People with HIV and other conditions that compromise the immune system can develop quite large lesions that take longer to go away.

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? Basically, any skin to skin contact with an infected person can spread molluscum contagiosum. The virus can survive on surfaces that have been touched by the skin of an infected person, so it’s possible to contract the virus through towels, sports equipment, clothing, toys, or other items that have been contaminated.

IS IT STILL IN THE U.S? Molluscum contagiosum is still quite common in the United States, although the CDC doesn't track it because the infections "are seldom serious and routinely disappear without treatment." and even more so on a global scale. According to a report in the Lancet, as of 2010, over 120 million people had molluscum contagiosum world wide. That reflected about 2 percent of the global population.The AIDS Education and Training Center Program reports, "There is a strong correlation between the degree of immunosuppression and the risk of molluscum infection, the number of lesions, and the ability of lesions to resist treatment.”

IS THERE A CURE? There is not a cure for molluscum contagiosum, but typically the body will fight off the infection and the bumps or lesions will heal naturally. Since it is caused by a virus, antibiotics cannot treat it.

HOW IS IT TREATED? If the lesions or bumps are not going away or getting worse over time, it may be necessary to treat molluscum contagiosum. Some doctors will burn or freeze the areas to get rid of them. Successful treatment is more difficult for people with weakened immune systems, such as those living with HIV or AIDS. Antiretroviral meds are the most effective treatment for people with HIV who are infected with molluscum contagiosum because these medications can work to strengthen the immune system to fight the virus.

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? Condoms aren’t very effective in protecting yourself from molluscum contagiosum since all you need is skin to skin contact with, or even contact with things touched by an infected person.

WHAT IS IT? Mucopurulent Cervicitis is a STI of the cervix. It can be caused by Chlamydia, gonorrhea, or other germs or viruses. The germs could be living in your body for long periods of time before you have symptoms. Some women and trans men with MPC don't have symptoms, while others may have vaginal discharge, irregular bleeding, pain in the abdomen, or pain during or after vaginal sex.

SLANG TERM? "Cervicitis"

WHAT ARE THE CHANCES OF GETTING IT? The chances increase if you have Chlamydia or gonorrhea. Because so many STIs can cause it, it is fairly common, especially among young adults. MPC is transmitted through unprotected sexual contact (oral, vaginal, or anal) with a partner carrying the germs that can cause MPC. It is possible to transmit without knowing it. Women and trans men who have MPC and are HIV-positive (and not undetectable) are more likely to transmit HIV during an MPC infection, because the CDC says, "cervicitis increases cervical HIV shedding."

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? Yes. Use of condoms for oral, vaginal and anal sex will help prevent getting it. Avoid sexual contact with partners who have symptoms of any STI. 

WHAT IS IT? Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is an infection of female reproductive organs. It is often caused by certain STIs being untreated, like Chlamydia and gonorrhea. Other infections that are not sexually transmitted can also cause PID. The CDC reports that "one in eight women with a history of PID experience difficulties getting pregnant."

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? You are more likely to get PID if you have an STI and do not get treated, have multiple sex partners, or a partner who has multiple sex partners, are under 25 and sexually active, if you douche, or have an IUD for birth control (though this only slightly increases your risk for PID, and only during the first few weeks after the IUD is placed). PID can happen to anyone with a female reproductive system, including trans men. According to the CDC, about 5 percent of women in the U.S. have PID. The AIDS Education and Training Center Program reports that PID may be a early symptom of HIV, and “between 20% and 40% of women with cervical chlamydial infection and 10-20% of women with gonococcal infection eventually develop PID."

IS IT STILL IN THE U.S? Though the rates have been steadily decreasing over the past few decades, it is still very common. 

IS THERE A CURE? Several types of antibiotics can cure PID.

HOW IS IT TREATED? PID is treated with antibiotics, and speedy treatment is essential to limit the damage to the reproductive system.

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? Regular condom use will greatly reduce your risk of getting an STI, which will in turn reduce your risk of developing PID.

WHAT IS IT? Pubic lice are parasitic insects found primarily in the pubic or genital area of humans. Signs and symptoms of pubic lice include itching in the genital area, visible eggs or crawling lice. Adult pubic lice are about 1.5 mm in length (roughly the size of a flea) and resemble a crab, hence their slang nickname, “crabs.”  Pubic lice are typically found attached to hair in the pubic area but occasionally can attach to course hair elsewhere on the body.

SLANG NAME? "Crabs"

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? Pubic lice usually are spread through sexual contact and are most common in adults. Having no pubic hair from shaving or waxing will greatly decrease your risk of getting pubic lice, but obviously, this won’t protect you from getting other STIs. A common misconception is that pubic lice are spread by sitting on a toilet seat. This cannot happen because lice cannot live  away from a warm human body, and their feet are not able to hold onto or walk on smooth surfaces such as toilet seats. Public lice are human parasites and cannot be transmitted to or from animals. Pubic lice are mainly transmitted via genital to genital contact, so anyone who is sexually active in this way can get it.  According to the American Sexual Health Association, an estimated 3 million new cases of infestation occur in the United States each year. About 1 in 90 people in the U.S. have public lice.

IS IT STILL IN THE U.S? Pubic lice infestation is found worldwide and occurs in all races and ethnic groups and in all levels of society.

IS THERE A CURE? Over the counter medicated shampoos and lotions can be used to kill pubic lice and their eggs.

HOW IS IT TREATED? Only a topical lotion called ivermectin is currently approved by the FDA for the treatment of pubic lice. It is also recommended that bedding and clothing that may have been exposed be washed in very hot water (at least 130°F) and dried using your dryer’s hottest setting. Although they feed on human blood, they cannot transmit HIV. 

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? Condoms are not effective in stopping the transmission of public lice because they live in pubic hair, which is obviously not covered by a condom.

WHAT IS IT?: Scabies is a parasitic infestation of human itch mites. The microscopic mites burrow into the upper layer of the skin where it lives and lays its eggs. The most common symptoms of scabies are intense itching and a pimple-like skin rash, but this can take anywhere from two to six weeks to occur.

SLANG NAMES? "Mange," "The 7-Year Itch," "Cooties"

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? Scabies are spread easily to sexual partners and household members. Scabies in adults are typically acquired through sexual contact. Scabies usually are spread by direct, prolonged, skin-to-skin contact. Contact must be prolonged to get scabies — a quick handshake or hug usually will not spread scabies. They can spread rapidly in crowded conditions where close body and skin contact is frequent. Nursing homes, child care facilities and prisons are common sites of scabies outbreaks. Scabies is found worldwide and affect people of all races, ages, genders, and social classes. People with multiple sex partners, those who are immunocompromised, and clinicians in direct patient contact are also at high risk for contracting the disease.

IS IT STILL IN THE U.S? Millions of people worldwide are affected, and in the United States, the rate of infestation has been increasing for the past several years.

IS THERE A CURE? ​Yes.

HOW IS IT TREATED? A prescription medicine called a scabicide is used to kill scabies mites and their eggs and get rid of the infestation.

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU? Condoms are not very effective in preventing the spread of scabies because they typically occur outside of the area covered by a condom.

WHAT IS IT? Syphilis is a sexually transmitted virus divided into stages (primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary). It is common to get a sore or sores at the original site of infection during the first stage (primary syphilis). These sores usually occur on or around the genitals, around the anus or in the rectum, or in or around the mouth. They are usually firm, round, and painless. Symptoms in the second stage (secondary syphilis) can include skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, and fever. The signs and symptoms of primary and secondary syphilis can be mild, and they might not be noticed. During the third stage (latent stage), there are no signs or symptoms. The final stage (tertiary syphilis) typically leads to severe medical problems, and can affect the heart, brain, and other organs of the body.

SLANG NAME? "Syfy"

WHAT ARE YOUR CHANCES OF GETTING IT? Any sexually active person can get syphilis through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex. A pregnant woman with syphilis can also give the infection to their unborn baby. Syphilis is extremely serious and can be life-threatening for unborn and newborn babies. If you are pregnant, it is extremely important to get tested so you can be properly treated. According to the CDC, "During 2015, there were 74,702 reported new diagnoses of syphilis." The majority (60 percent in 2015) of syphilis cases in the U.S. occur among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM). Syphilis has been increasing among MSM for more than a decade now. The CDC also reports that about half of the MSM with syphilis are also living with HIV. Those diagnosed with syphilis are more likely to become HIV-positive in the future. "Having a sore or break in the skin from an STD such as syphilis may allow HIV to more easily enter your body."

IS IT STILL IN THE U.S? Yes. Syphilis has been on the rise for the past decade in the United States

IS THERE A CURE? Yes, syphilis can be cured, although treatment might not undo any damage that the infection has already done. By the final stages, too much damage has been done to the internal organs, and it usually results in death.

HOW IS IT TREATED? Syphilis is treated with antibiotics.

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU?  Condoms prevent transmission of syphilis by preventing contact with a sore, but if sores are in areas not covered by a condom, you can still transmit syphilis even when using a condom.

WHAT IS IT? Trichomoniasis is an STI that is caused by a parasite. The parasite is trichomonas vaginalis. Most women and men who have the parasite don’t know that they are infected. For both men and women, a health care provider can examine you and get a laboratory test to diagnose trichomoniasis.

SLANG NAME? "Trick"

WHAT ARE THE CHANCES OF GETTING IT? It’s considered the most common curable STI. According to the CDC, 3.7 million people have it in the U.S. but only 30 percent develop symptoms. The infection is more common in women, and especially more common in older women. The CDC reports that in women, the most commonly infected part of the body is the lower genital tract (vulva, vagina, cervix, or urethra). In men, the most commonly infected body part is the inside of the penis (urethra). During sex, the parasite is transmitted from a penis to a vagina, or from a vagina to a penis, but it can also be passed from a vagina to another vagina. The CDC also notes, "The prevalence of trichomoniasis in [men who have sex with men] is low." Trichomoniasis is more common among women who are HIV-positive (one study found 17 percent of women with the STI were also HIV-positive).

HOW IS IT TREATED? According to the CDC, Trichomoniasis can be treated with medication (either metronidazole or tinidazole), pills which can be taken by mouth. The treatment is safe for pregnant women. Those who are treated for trichomoniasis can get it again. In fact, one in five people get it again within three months of receiving treatment. To avoid getting reinfected, make sure that all of your sex partners get treated, and wait 7- 10 days after you and your treated partner have sex again. Get checked again if your symptoms come back.

WILL A CONDOM PROTECT YOU?  For the most part, yes, but the parasite can still infect areas that aren’t covered by the condom.