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 .

Explore STD Prevention Resources