Chlamydia is the most common reported bacterial STI in the U.S. It is most common in younger people—it is estimated that 1 in 20 sexually active young women aged 14-24 years has chlamydia.
Gonorrhea (also known as “the clap”) is an infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is passed on during vaginal, anal, and oral sex (performing or receiving).
If you’re sexually active, getting tested for STIs is an important part of staying healthy. ANYONE who has any kind of sex with a partner can get an STI.
While most adults know the most common STIs, there’s still confusion about lesser-known infections, vaccines to prevent STIs, and whether sitting on a toilet seat is risky (it’s not).
Herpes is a very common viral infection caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). I can cause sores on the mouth or face or in the genital area. Herpes cannot be cured, but it can be treated.
Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be caused by a group of viruses—hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. When hepatitis viruses damage liver cells, scar tissue is formed and those cells can no longer function.
Why are STI rates so high among young people? For insight we chatted with Dr. J. Dennis Fortenberry, a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the Indiana University School of Medicine.
