How Do You Get STDs?

STDs spread through sexual contact and sometimes through other body fluid exchanges.

Transmission Methods

• Vaginal sex — most common
• Anal sex — highest transmission risk for HIV
• Oral sex — gonorrhea, herpes, syphilis
• Skin-to-skin contact — herpes, HPV (even with condom)
• Sharing needles — HIV, hepatitis B/C
• Mother to baby — syphilis, HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea

What Does NOT Spread STDs

• Toilet seats
• Hugging or kissing (most STDs)
• Sharing food or drinks
• Insect bites

Prevention

• Condoms (reduce but don't eliminate risk)
• Vaccines (HPV, hepatitis B)
• PrEP (HIV prevention)
• Regular testing
• Mutual monogamy