STIs vs STDs: What’s the Difference and Why It Matters for Your Health

9 Apr 2025

STIs vs STDs: What's the Difference?

You might have heard the terms Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) tossed around a lot, but do you know the difference? They’re often used interchangeably, but there’s a subtle distinction between the two.

Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)

An STI refers to any infection that is passed from one person to another through sexual contact. It’s the broader term because not all STIs turn into diseases. An infection means the bacteria, virus, or parasite is present in the body, but it might not cause any symptoms or harm right away. Many people with an STI don’t even know they have it!

For example, Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are infections that might not show symptoms immediately but can still be passed on to others.

Key Points:

An STI is an infection in your body.
It doesn’t always cause symptoms right away.
You can have an STI without it developing into a disease.

Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)

An STD refers to an infection that has progressed into a disease and is causing symptoms or damage to the body. Not all STIs will develop into STDs, but if an infection goes untreated, it can cause complications and become a disease.

For instance, HIV is an infection that can turn into AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) over time, which is considered a disease. Similarly, untreated Syphilis can lead to severe health problems in later stages.

Key Points:

An STD is an infection that has progressed and caused symptoms or health problems.
It can result in long-term complications if untreated.
Not all STIs will turn into STDs, but if left untreated, some can.

Why the Terms Matter

The shift from "STDs" to "STIs" happened because the term infection is more accurate. Not all infections result in diseases, and early treatment of infections can prevent them from becoming diseases.

STIs are infections that can be treated and managed before turning into diseases.
STDs are infections that have already caused noticeable symptoms or health issues.

In short: All STDs are STIs, but not all STIs turn into STDs!

Takeaway: Stay Safe and Get Tested

Understanding the difference between STIs and STDs can help reduce stigma and encourage people to get tested and treated early. The good news is that most STIs and STDs can be prevented with protection (like condoms or dental dams), and many are treatable if caught early.

The most important thing is regular testing, open communication with your partner(s), and practicing safe sex to reduce your risk.