How can you have an STD without knowing?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be asymptomatic, meaning that an individual may not experience any symptoms or signs of infection. This is particularly common with certain STDs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes simplex virus (HSV). In some cases, symptoms of an STD may be mild or mistaken for other conditions, making it difficult for an individual to recognize that they have an infection. Additionally, some STDs may have an incubation period before symptoms appear, which can further delay diagnosis and treatment. It is important to practice safe sex and get regular STD testing to ensure early detection and treatment of any infections.