Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that can be passed from partner to partner during sexual activity. STIs are caused by an organism, such as a bacteria, a virus, or a parasite, and are most likely to be transmitted through unprotected oral, vaginal, or anal sex. In some cases, STIs can be passed on through skin-to-skin contact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are spread through sexual activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Examples of STIs include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As of 2018, around 20%<\/a> of people in the US had an STI, although as many as 75% of people may experience HPV at some point in their lives. HPV is the most prevalent sexually transmitted infection. Just four of these STIs \u2014 chlamydia, trichomoniasis, HPV, and genital herpes \u2014 made up 98%<\/a> of cases in 2018. They also represented 93%<\/a> of new cases the same year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n STIs and STDs are often referred to interchangeably<\/a>. Some institutions<\/a> and organizations differentiate between the two, noting that STIs are infections that can be spread to other people. Once you have an STI, it may develop into a chronic disease (STD).<\/p>\n\n\n\n One example is HIV, an STI that may become acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if the infection isn\u2019t treated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n STIs like chlamydia, HIV, and HPV may reduce sperm count and quality, possibly contributing to 15%<\/a> of cases of male infertility<\/a>. However, more research needs to be done to determine the link between STIs and male fertility.<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhat\u2019s the difference between STIs and STDs?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Sexually transmitted infections and male fertility<\/h2>\n\n\n\n