STIs vs STDs: Are they the same thing?

You’ve likely heard the terms STI (sexually transmitted infection) and STD (sexually transmitted disease) used interchangeably—and they both probably bring herpes, chlamydia, and other sexually transmitted conditions to mind. While the terms are closely related, they don’t mean exactly the same thing. Continue reading to dive deeper into the distinction between the two and to clarify conversations about prevention, treatment, and reducing stigma.

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Defining STIs

STIs, or sexually transmitted infections, occur when a pathogen, such as a virus, bacteria, or parasite, is transmitted through sexual contact. Many STIs don’t cause noticeable symptoms, especially in their early stages, which means someone can have (and spread) an infection without knowing it. Examples of STIs include:

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Defining STDs

While an STI refers to the infection itself, an STD, or sexually transmitted disease, represents what can happen if the infection is left untreated or progresses. In other words, STDs develop when infections cause symptoms or complications. Here are some examples of how that progression might look:

• Untreated chlamydia can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a serious STD.
• HPV infections can result in genital warts or even cervical cancer.

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Key differences between STIs and STDs

Now that we know what STIs and STDs are, how do they differ? While the two terms are often used interchangeably, they represent different stages of a sexually transmitted condition.

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Infection vs. disease

The main difference lies in the terms themselves: an infection refers to the presence of a pathogen in the body, while a disease indicates that the infection has caused damage or symptoms.

• STI: Asymptomatic (no visible symptoms) or mild early stages of a transmitted pathogen
• STD: Advanced stage with noticeable symptoms or health issues

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Why the shift toward “STI”?

You might have noticed that “STI” is more commonly used today than “STD.” This shift is not accidental. Here’s why health care providers prefer the term STI:

1. Reduced stigma: The term "disease" can sound more severe or permanent, which might discourage people from seeking testing or treatment.
2. Accuracy: Not all sexually transmitted infections lead to diseases, and many are treatable before they cause complications.
3. Prevention focus: Highlighting infections emphasizes early detection and treatment, making prevention efforts more approachable.

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Common misconceptions about STIs and STDs

Although the terms STI and STD are becoming more widely understood, there are still plenty of misconceptions about what they mean and how they’re transmitted. Let’s address a few of the most common myths.

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Can I have an STI if I don’t have symptoms?

One of the biggest misconceptions is that if you don’t have these symptoms, it means you’re in the clear—this isn’t true. Many STIs don’t cause symptoms, especially in their early stages, but can still be transmitted to others and cause more severe medical problems down the line. 

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Are STDs permanent?

It’s also a myth that every STD is a lifelong condition. While some STDs, like herpes, warts, HPV, and HIV are chronic conditions, others—such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia—can be completely cured with timely treatment.

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Can I get an STI or STD from sex?

Another common misconception is that STIs and STDs can only be transmitted through penetrative vaginal or anal sex. However, many infections can be spread through other forms of sexual activity, such as oral sex or skin-to-skin contact. For example:

• HPV and herpes can be transmitted through intimate skin contact with open sores or immediately after an outbreak.
• Gonorrhea and chlamydia can be passed during oral sex.

Why testing matters

Whether or not symptoms are present, testing is critical for managing both STIs and STDs. Getting regular testing is an important step toward protecting yourself and your partners. 

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It’s also important to get tested everywhere you have sex. Sometimes, people can have an infection in their throat but not genitals. “Three-site” testing covers oral, anal, and penis/vagina testing so you can get as much information as possible, and is available at many clinics.

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Regular screenings help:

• Identify infections before they cause complications
• Prevent transmission to partners
• Reduce the overall prevalence of STIs and STDs in your community

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How to protect yourself

Prevention is always the first line of defense against infection, and there are many steps you can take to protect yourself and reduce the risk of contracting or spreading STIs and STDs.

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Use protection

Condoms and dental dams are effective tools for reducing the risk of STI and STD transmission by creating a barrier that prevents the exchange of bodily fluids (such as saliva, semen, or vaginal discharge) during sex. It's important to use them consistently and correctly—but keep in mind, while condoms and dental dams greatly reduce the risk, they don’t offer 100% protection, especially for STIs transmitted through skin-to-skin contact like herpes or HPV.

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Get vaccinated

Vaccines, such as the HPV and hepatitis B vaccines, can prevent some of the most common STIs. For example, the HPV vaccine protects against strains that are responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases and genital warts. Vaccination is particularly effective when given before someone becomes sexually active, but it’s beneficial at any age if you haven’t been vaccinated yet.

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Communicate with your partners

Open and honest discussions about sexual health and testing history are crucial for prevention. Talking about past partners, testing dates, and whether either of you has had any symptoms can help you make informed decisions. While these conversations might feel awkward at first, they’re essential for building trust and ensuring mutual safety.

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Regular testing

Your ideal testing frequency depends on your sexual activity and risk factors. For example, people with multiple partners or those engaging in unprotected sex should get tested more frequently. Even if you’re in a monogamous relationship, routine testing is a good practice, as some STIs can remain dormant for years. 

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While STIs and STDs are closely related, understanding the difference can empower you to take charge of your sexual health. By focusing on prevention, early detection, and treatment, we can reduce stigma and improve overall well-being. If you're experiencing oral or vaginal sores, itching, or burning, you might be dealing with a herpes infection—you don’t have to wait for an in-person appointment to get help.