Many people are surprised to learn that Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), also known as Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs), in the United States remain high, in spite of public health education campaigns and widespread access to effective tools like condoms. While the total number of STIs reported by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) decreased between 2022 and 2023 by 2% (Statista), cases of newborn syphilis have reached an all-time high (CDC 2024 National STI Data).
According to the CDC, the three most common sexually transmitted infections are chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. In 2024, more than 2.2 mission cases were reported. The presence of an STI in women is particularly important because symptoms are not always visible, and an untreated infection may result in future fertility problems, long-term pelvic or abdominal pain, and increased risk of contracting or transmitting HIV (The State of STIs).
Latex condoms are a highly effective way to prevent STI transmission, and routine testing, as recommended by your provider, as well as testing any time symptoms appear, help identify STIs when they are the most easily treatable.
Signs and symptoms of common STIs
Gonorrhea and Chlamydia
These are the two most prevalent STIs. Common symptoms include abnormal, bleeding after sex or between menstrual periods, lower stomach or pelvic pain, and discolored discharge or a burning sensation when passing urine. Most importantly, these infections do not always have symptoms. Therefore, routine testing is important.
Genital herpes
Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Common symptoms include pain, itching or discomfort in the genital area, and flu-like symptoms. Small red bumps or tiny white blisters may also be seen. These may appear a few days to a few weeks after infection.
Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial infection usually spread by sexual contact. The disease starts as a painless sore — typically on the genitals, rectum or mouth. Common symptoms are a rash that usually won’t itch. Other symptoms include fever, swollen lymph glands or sore throat that appear a few weeks after infection. Internal organ damage, including brain damage, can be caused by untreated syphilis (CDC Syphilis Guide).
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is a viral infection that nearly all people will get at some point. It commonly causes symptoms such as genital warts that can cause itching but are often painless, but not all infected people will develop warts. Because some strains of the virus can lead to cancer, routine pap smear testing is essential (CDC HPV Guide). Learn more about HPV vaccination and Pap smear services.
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis (trich) is a common STI caused by a parasite infection rather than a virus. Infection is more common in women, and women over age 40. Only a small number of people with trich show any symptoms. When they do appear, symptoms include vaginal discharge that is white, yellowish, greenish or clear, with a fishy smell; itching, burning or soreness of the genitalia; and, pain when urinating. Trich can cause low birth weight babies and early labor (CDC Trichomoniasis Guide).
Testing for an STI
Who Should Get Tested
All sexually active women should get tested for STIs on a regular basis. Even if you don’t have symptoms, routine STI testing is mandatory for good health. STI testing is particularly important if:
- You’re in a new relationship with a new partner.
- You’re sexually active but not in a mutually monogamous relationship.
- You are pregnant.
- You exhibit any symptoms of an STI mentioned above such as: genital itching, rashes in the genital area or abnormal discharge
Being honest with your provider will help them more accurately assess your risk for STIs and develop the appropriate testing recommendations. Routine testing can be requested during your Annual Well-woman Exam (View Well Woman billing and insurance information) or may be recommended by your doctor based on your individual risk. If your risk factors change (i.e. you start a relationship with a new partner) or you are exhibiting symptoms of an STI, you can schedule a visit with your provider specifically for the purposes of STI testing and treatment as appropriate.
How it Works
STI testing methods vary based on the infection that is being screened for, but the process is similar.
- Schedule a provider visit to discuss your concerns or to conduct routine testing.
- Your provider may need to collect a vaginal swab, or blood or urine sample. That sample will be sent to a lab for testing.
- When test results are ready, your provider will follow up to discuss results and any appropriate next steps. They may prescribe medication or other treatment if results are positive (which means you have the STI you were screened for).
- Follow up with your provider as instructed.
Treatment
Treatment options will depend on the specific infection. In some cases, a course of antibiotics is all that is needed. Other STIs may require more detailed treatment. When discussing test results with your provider, ensure you understand next steps, if follow-up is needed, and when to seek additional help.
An untreated or undiagnosed STI can lead to fertility problems in the future. Therefore, women with any of the symptoms mentioned above or those falling into one of the higher risk groups discussed should make an appointment to get tested.
Untreated STIs
Women are particularly susceptible to long term complications of STIs. An untreated or undiagnosed STI can lead to chronic pain, fertility problems, damage to your organs, and increased risk of some cancers and HIV. Women with any of the symptoms mentioned above or those falling into one of the higher risk groups discussed should make an appointment to get tested.
Prevention
The most effective ways to protect yourself from an STI are protection and testing.
- Vaccinations – For HPV and Hepatitis A and B, vaccines are highly effective ways to prevent STIs.
- Protection – Practicing safe sex (i.e., ask your partner to use a condom) is the single best way to protect yourself from getting infected.
- Testing – Getting tested on a regular basis is the second-best way to keep yourself safe.
The absence of symptoms is not a reliable predictor of who may or may not have an STI. If in doubt, get tested! Early testing and treatment protect your health today and your fertility tomorrow. Advantia health providers offer comprehensive, compassionate sexual health care without judgement, so you can ask questions, get answers, and receive treatment in an environment built on respect and privacy. Find a provider near you and schedule your appointment today.
Learn more about STIs, testing and treatment through our Screening for STIs Patient FAQs.
Last updated: September 21, 2026
