Difference Between STI And STD

The most obvious difference between STI and STD is their acronyms. STI stands for sexually transmitted infection, and STD stands for sexually transmitted disease. Both represent the conditions that are caused by sexual contact with an infected person. But the main difference between STI and STD is that while STIs do not cause symptoms, STDs do. A few years back, there was the term STD, but it was called venereal disease before that. Over the years, the term STD has developed a bad reputation, so a new name has come up. You can say that STI is the milder version of STD that causes no symptoms.

When any condition is labelled as a disease, it generally means that there are obvious signs and symptoms. People with STDs experience symptoms, and they may feel abnormal changes and the feeling that something isn’t right. Having an STI, however, means that the person is infected but does not have symptoms. So, basically, the terms STD and STI are not interchangeable as STDs refer to those conditions where symptoms are present, while STIs are conditions that display no symptoms.

Sexually transmitted infections and diseases are very common, and anyone who is sexually active is prone to getting them. Knowing the difference between STI and STD alone cannot lessen the chance of contracting them. There are many types of STIs, some of which are curable, and some can only be treated and cannot be cured. While they are primarily spread by sexual contact, the ways of transmission also depend on the type of STIs. Some can also be transmitted through contact with active sores and bodily fluids, and even skin-to-skin contact. When the infection advances, it can cause discomfort to the body.

There is not a big difference between STI and STD. But knowing how to differentiate between them will serve you well. If you have a sexually active life, getting regular STD check-ups is highly recommended. You never know you may have an STI without testing. Many STDs are transmitted by having sexual contact with a person who has an STI without symptoms.

Now that you know the difference between STI and STD be careful when you have sex with someone and always use protection like condoms and dental barriers to lower the risk of getting an STI that may develop into an STD and cause serious health complications in the future. Always remember that prevention is better than cure. Even if you’ve been successfully treated for an STD, it does not make you immune to reinfection. It can come back when you have sexual contact with an infected person. So, if you have been treated for an STD, make sure your partner also tests for possible STDs or STIs and receives prompt treatment so that both you and your partner can have a healthy sexual life.