Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections include bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections passed through sexual contact — routine screening and prompt treatment are essential.

Book an appointment (713) 597-5131

By Kaveh Samani, MD · Internal Medicine PhysicianReviewed May 9, 20262 min read

Key takeaways

Many STIs cause no symptoms, so routine, confidential screening — not just testing when something feels wrong — is how most infections are found and stopped.
The common bacterial STIs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis) are curable with antibiotics, and prompt treatment prevents complications and transmission to partners.
CDC treatment recommendations changed in 2021: doxycycline is now preferred for chlamydia, and gonorrhea is treated with a single higher-dose ceftriaxone injection, reflecting antibiotic resistance.
Untreated infections can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility, pregnancy complications, and increased HIV risk; untreated syphilis can affect the heart and nervous system.
Prevention and follow-up matter: partner treatment, retesting, HPV and hepatitis B vaccination, and HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for those at risk are all part of comprehensive care.

STIs, or sexually transmitted infections, are passed between people primarily as part of sexual activity. Sexual acts that involve the anus, mouth, penis, or vagina can all result in the spread of a sexual infection if protection isn't used. Our office aims to help patients learn how to avoid contracting an STI and also understand treatment options. Patients who have an STI are treated with compassion and without judgment in an environment focused on helping you get and stay healthy.

Is There A Difference Between STIs and STDs?

For most intents and purposes outside of the medical community, they're essentially two terms for the same thing. More technically, an STI can be thought of as an STD that is not currently exhibiting symptoms. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the infection known to be responsible for the development of cervical cancer, but most people who have HPV have not developed cervical cancer. They have an STI (HPV), but not the disease associated with that organism.

What Symptoms Are Associated With STIs?

The term STI is an umbrella term covering a broad range of infections. Many STIs share symptoms, including:

Skin rashes
Pain while urinating
Swelling or redness near the genitals
Jaundice — yellowing of the skin
Discharge from the vagina or penis, often accompanied by an odor
Non-menstrual bleeding from the vagina
Sores, warts, or bumps near the vagina, mouth, penis, or anus
Pain during sex

If you show any of these symptoms, it's time to call your physician and get an examination.

Are STIs Curable?

Many STIs are curable, while others are able to be managed in a way that has minimal impact on your life while making it less likely you'll spread it to others. Even HIV patients can live long and healthy lives with modern treatment methods. Speaking to a physician is the best way to ensure you get healthy and stay that way after an STI diagnosis.

If you're worried that you may have been exposed to an STI, it's best to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. When caught early, patients can avoid most or all of the symptoms associated with that condition.

Type	Examples	Outlook
Bacterial	Chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis	Curable with antibiotics
Viral	HIV, herpes, HPV	Manageable — controlled, not always cured

Signs & symptoms

Signs and symptoms to watch for

Often no symptoms — many infections are detected only by screening
Unusual discharge from the genitals
Burning or pain with urination
Genital sores, bumps, or warts
Itching or irritation in the genital area
Pain during sex
Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
Rash or flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes)

When to see a specialist

Should you see a specialist?

Schedule confidential testing if you have new sexual partners, symptoms suggestive of an STI, a partner diagnosed with an STI, or are due for routine screening (annually for sexually active adults under 25 and high-risk groups).

Frequently asked

Sexually Transmitted Infections questions, answered

What are the most common STI symptoms?

When symptoms occur they can include unusual discharge, burning with urination, sores or bumps, itching, or pelvic pain. But their absence doesn't mean you're in the clear.

Are STIs curable?

Bacterial STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are curable with antibiotics. Viral ones like herpes, HIV, and HPV aren't cured but can be effectively managed.

Can you have an STI without symptoms?

Yes, many STIs cause no symptoms at all, which is exactly why regular testing matters if you're sexually active. You can carry and pass one without knowing.

How often should I get tested for STIs?

It depends on your age and risk, but sexually active people, especially with new or multiple partners, should be tested regularly. Your doctor can recommend the right schedule.

What happens if an STI goes untreated?

Untreated infections can lead to serious problems like infertility, chronic pelvic pain, and a higher risk of other infections. Early testing and treatment prevent most complications.

SpecialtyInternal MedicineICD-10 codeA64Associated anatomyReproductive organs, urinary tract, mucous membranes

Also called STIs, STD, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Venereal Disease, Sexually Transmitted Infections

This page is for general education and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. Contact a Remix Medical clinician about your specific situation.

Updated May 9, 2026. Medically reviewed by Kaveh Samani, MD.