Which STDs can be transmitted unknowingly?
Many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be transmitted unknowingly, meaning that an infected person may not show any symptoms or may mistake them for another condition. Some of the most common STDs that can be transmitted unknowingly include:
- Human papillomavirus (HPV): HPV is a very common STD that can cause warts on the genitals, anus, or mouth. Some types of HPV can also lead to cervical, vulvar, anal, and penile cancer. HPV is typically transmitted through skin-to-skin contact during sex, but it can also be transmitted through sharing sex toys.
- Chlamydia: Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that can affect the cervix, urethra, and rectum. In women, chlamydia can cause pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to infertility. In men, chlamydia can cause inflammation of the testicles and epididymis, which can also lead to infertility. Chlamydia is usually transmitted through unprotected sex, but it can also be transmitted through sharing sex toys.
- Gonorrhea: Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that affects the urethra, rectum, and throat. Gonorrhea can cause burning urination, discharge from the penis or vagina, and pain during intercourse. Gonorrhea is usually transmitted through unprotected sex, but it can also be transmitted through sharing sex toys.
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV): HSV is a viral infection that causes herpes sores. HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes, while HSV-2 typically causes genital herpes. Herpes sores can be painful and embarrassing, but they are usually not dangerous. HSV is usually transmitted through kissing or oral sex, but it can also be transmitted through vaginal or anal sex.
- HIV: HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system and can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). HIV is transmitted through contact with infected blood, semen, or vaginal fluids. HIV can be transmitted through unprotected sex, sharing needles or other drug paraphernalia, or from an infected mother to her baby during pregnancy, labor, delivery, or breastfeeding.
It is important to note that STDs can be transmitted even if a person does not ejaculate. This is because pre-ejaculate can contain enough sperm or other infectious fluids to transmit an STD.
If you think you may have an STD, it is important to see a doctor or other healthcare provider as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the risk of complications and protect your sexual partners.