What Is the Difference Between STD and STI?

The terms are often used interchangeably but technically different.

STI

• Pathogen present in body
• May have NO symptoms

STD

• Infection that HAS caused symptoms

Why CDC Prefers STI

• Reduces stigma
• Many infections are asymptomatic

Common STIs

• Chlamydia — curable
• Gonorrhea — treatable
• Syphilis — curable
• HPV — vaccine available
• Herpes — manageable
• HIV — manageable
• Trichomoniasis — curable