Thank you for your question to our nurses! April is STI Awareness Month and we’re here to answer your questions!
The acronyms in your question refer to Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Sexually Transmitted Infections.
Actually, these terms are interchangeable and both refer to microorganisms that are passed via intimate skin-to-skin sexual contact.
In recent years, the CDC and other health organizations “rebranded” to better educate the public on preventing transmission, especially among those 15 – 24 years old.
A “disease” generally refers to a condition a person just develops, related to genetic predispositions. Often these are managed for life, like diabetes, asthma, and Crohn’s Disease.
However, “infection” refers to an illness that is passed from an infected person to an uninfected person. In other words, healthy choices directly coincide with the risk of transmission.
So, rather than suggesting an STD “just happens,” it’s more accurate to describe an infection and educate those who are sexually active to assume personal responsibility for their health and wellness.
Ultimately, the best way to avoid an STI is to wait to have sex until a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner.
For more information, visit https://connectmedicalclinic.com/sti-testing-and-treatment/
Thanks for asking, keep them coming!
Text “Blog” + your question to 701-840-6280. Our nurses are ready to answer you!
