STI overview
STD (sexually transmitted diseases) vs
STI (sexually transmitted infections)
These terms mean exactly the same thing, although STI is currently the term that is used more frequently because of the negative association that people generally connect with disease. Additionally disease is thought to be incurable, whereas the term infections can decrease the stigma and increase the knowledge that many STIs are easily curable.
Types of sexually transmitted infections
STIs can be broken down into three groups: bacterial, viral, and infestations. It is important to know the differences between them.
STIs caused by viruses
- Herpes (HSV)
- Genital warts (HPV)
- HIV
- Hepatitis A
- Hepatitis B
- Hepatitis C
STIs caused by bacteria
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia
- Syphilis
- Trichomonas
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
- May also include cystitis/urinary tract infection, yeast infection, and bacterial vaginitis/vaginosis, although these are not necessarily caused by sexual transmission
STIs caused by infestations
- Scabies
- Pubic lice (Crabs)
Find out more about OPT Clinics
All information on this page has been reviewed by Options for Sexual Health's Director of Clinical Services, Danielle Chard RN, BSN.
