Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
STDs, also known as sexually transmitted infections or STIs, refer to many different infections including gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, syphilis, herpes, HPV (warts), Hepatitis, trichomoniasis and more.
STDs are very common. People of all ages and backgrounds can get an STD. There are 20 million new STD cases in the U.S. every year. Half of these are between 15 and 24 years old.
Anyone who is having sex can get an STD. STDs can be passed from one person to another through anal, oral or vaginal sex, or direct skin-to-skin contact.If left untreated, STDs can lead to long-term complications, such as severe pain, pregnancy outside the uterus, infertility, loss of eye sight, birth defects, certain types of cancers and an increased chance of receiving or giving HIV. Learn more .
Protect yourself and
others from getting STDs.
Get Tested.
Get Treated.
The only way to know if you or a partner has an STD or HIV is to get tested.
Explore STD
Prevention Resources
Parental Consent
If you are 12 years old or older you do not need parental consent to be tested or treated for an
STD. However, if you are able to speak with your parent(s) or a trusted adult, that is recommended.
Updated September 30, 2024, 3:54 PM