STDs, STIs & YOUR HEALTH
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a serious health concern. If left untreated, they can cause long-term and sometimes irreversible damage to your reproductive system. In addition, STDs and STIs can be passed to newborns during childbirth if the mother is infected and untreated.
STD vs. STI: What’s the Difference?
The terms “STD” and “STI” are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference:
- STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease) describes an infection that has caused damage in the body — though it, too, may not always show symptoms.
- STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection) refers to the presence of an infection in the body, which may or may not produce symptoms.
STI is the broader term. All STDs are STIs, but not all STIs progress to become STDs.
For the most current and accurate information on STIs, visit The Center for Disease Control (CDC).
HOW STDs & STIs ARE TRANSMITTED
STDs are spread through sexual activity, including:
- Vaginal, oral, or anal sex
- Outercourse or mutual masturbation
- Skin-to-skin contact in some cases
It’s important to know that many people with STDs show no symptoms, yet the infection can still be transmitted. You may unknowingly infect a partner even if you feel fine. Early testing and treatment are critical.
WHAT ABOUT ABORTION AND STDs/STIs?
If an STI is present and not treated before an abortion, serious health complications can occur. During the procedure, bacteria or viruses can move from the vagina into the uterus, increasing the risk of developing Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID).
PID symptoms may be mild or even unnoticed at first, but the effects can be long-term:
- Scarring of the fallopian tubes
- Increased risk of ectopic pregnancy
- Difficulty getting pregnant (1 in 8 women with PID face infertility)
- Serious maternal complications or even death in the case of ectopic pregnancy
We’re Here to Help
Understanding STDs, STIs, and how they relate to your reproductive health — especially when facing an unplanned pregnancy — is essential. Contact us to learn more about prevention and support available to you.
