STD/STI FAQs

What is a Sexually Transmitted Disease?

A sexually transmitted disease (STD) is an infection spread from one person to another through sexual activity.

They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Some STDs cause mild or no symptoms, while others may lead to serious health problems if not treated.

What are the Most Common STDs?

Six common STDs affect millions each year, with young adults at higher risk.

In the U.S., people ages 15 to 24 make up nearly half of all reported STIs, even though they represent only about a quarter of the sexually active population. This means about one in four in this age group carries an STI.

The most common STDs include:

• Chlamydia: The most reported STD, especially among young women. Often symptom-free but may cause serious reproductive problems if untreated.

• Gonorrhea: A bacterial infection that can affect different parts of the body. Many have no symptoms, but untreated cases can lead to infertility.

• Syphilis: A bacterial infection with several stages. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent serious complications.

• Human Papillomavirus (HPV): A widespread virus with many types. Some cause genital warts, while others may lead to certain cancers.

• Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): Causes oral or genital herpes. The virus remains in the body and can cause recurring outbreaks.

• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): Weakens the immune system and can cause AIDS if untreated. Early testing and treatment help people live long, healthy lives.

How Much Is STD Testing?

STD testing costs vary by location and type of test. At Life Choices in Ruston, testing and treatment for chlamydia, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis are offered with a small $20 fee.

In other settings, costs may depend on insurance, the number of tests ordered, and whether extra services are included. Testing matters because many STDs have no symptoms but can still lead to serious health problems if untreated.

How Can I Prevent STDs?

Condoms and hygiene help reduce risk but don’t fully prevent STDs spread by skin-to-skin contact. Testing is wise and responsible, but the only way to avoid all STDs is abstinence or a committed relationship with an uninfected partner.

Can You Cure an STD without Going to the Doctor?

No, an STD cannot be safely cured without medical care.

Infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea need prescription medication to clear fully, and untreated cases can cause serious health problems. Others, like herpes or HIV, cannot be cured but can be managed with ongoing treatment. Home remedies or online products are unreliable and may delay the right care. Seeing a doctor is the safest way to protect your health and future.

How are Venereal Diseases Transmitted?

Venereal diseases, now more often called sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), spread from person to person through sexual activity.

This includes vaginal, oral, and anal sex, and sometimes close skin-to-skin contact. Infections like HIV or syphilis can also pass through blood, shared needles, or from mother to baby during birth. Because many STDs spread without symptoms, testing and prevention are key.

Can You Get an STD From Oral Sex?

Yes, it’s possible to get an STD from oral sex.

Infections such as herpes, gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, HPV, and even HIV can spread through oral contact with the genitals or anus. Transmission can occur even if no symptoms are present. Using protection like condoms or dental dams reduces the risk but doesn’t remove it completely, so regular testing is important if you’re sexually active.

Can You Get an STD from Kissing?

Yes, some STDs can spread through kissing, though it’s uncommon.

Herpes (HSV-1) is the most likely, especially when cold sores are present. Syphilis can also pass through open sores in the mouth, though this is rare. Most STDs spread through sexual activity, not kissing, but transmission is possible if cuts, sores, or infections are in the mouth.

Can You Catch an STD from a Toilet Seat?

No, you can’t get an STD from a toilet seat.

STDs spread through direct sexual contact, not from touching surfaces. The organisms that cause them don’t survive long outside the body. While practicing good hygiene is wise, there’s no risk of catching an STD from a toilet seat.

Is Bacterial Vaginosis an STD?

No, bacterial vaginosis (BV) isn’t an STD, though it is linked to sexual activity.

BV develops when the natural balance of vaginal bacteria is disrupted, sometimes influenced by new or multiple partners. It can also occur without sexual activity. While not an STD, BV can raise the risk of other infections, so getting checked and treated if needed is important.

Is Herpes 1 an STD?

Herpes type 1 (HSV-1) isn’t usually labeled an STD, but it can be spread through sexual contact.

HSV-1 most often causes cold sores around the mouth and is commonly passed through kissing or sharing personal items. It can also spread to the genitals through oral sex, where it acts like a sexually transmitted infection. Many people carry HSV-1 without knowing it, since symptoms may be mild or not visible.

Is HPV an STD?

Yes, HPV (human papillomavirus) is one of the most common STDs.

It spreads through skin-to-skin contact during vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Most people with HPV never know they have it because it often causes no symptoms. Certain types can lead to genital warts or cancers if untreated, but vaccines are available to protect against the most harmful strains.

What is "The Clap"?

“The Clap” is a slang name for gonorrhea, a common sexually transmitted disease (STD).

This bacterial infection can affect the reproductive tract, throat, rectum, or eyes. Symptoms may include painful urination or unusual discharge, though many people have no signs at all. Without treatment, gonorrhea can cause serious health problems such as infertility. When diagnosed early, it can usually be cured with antibiotics.

What Do "Crabs" Look Like?

“Crabs” are pubic lice—tiny insects that live in coarse body hair and appear gray or brown, about the size of a pinhead.

They may be seen moving in the hair or clinging to the skin. Their bites often cause itching, redness, and small blue marks. Crabs spread through close contact, including sex, and can be treated with medicated shampoos or lotions.