Sexual health remains one of the most vital yet overlooked aspects of public health across the world. Despite increasing awareness, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) continue to be surrounded by stigma, misinformation, and delayed intervention. The terms STI and STD are often used interchangeably, but the medical nuances between them are critical. STIs (sexually transmitted infections) refer to the presence of an infection—caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites—that is transmitted through sexual contact. This stage may not always result in symptoms.According to Dr. Shelly (Mittal) Mahajan, Lab Director & Clinical Lead at Mahajan Imaging Labs in India, “There’s a fundamental need to educate individuals on the difference between STIs and STDs—not just for medical accuracy, but also for proactive health behavior.”“An infection occurs when a pathogen enters the body and begins to multiply,” explains Dr. Mahajan. “But not all infections cause symptoms or result in disease immediately. This is the stage when someone is most likely to be unaware they’re even infected.”In contrast, STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) represent the point where the infection leads to recognizable symptoms or causes damage to the body. Think of STIs as the initial silent stage and STDs as the symptomatic or advanced phase.Take chlamydia, for example. “Initially, it can be entirely asymptomatic and go unnoticed,” Dr. Mahajan notes. “But left untreated, it can progress to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which is an STD. PID can lead to complications like chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and ectopic pregnancy.”This difference between infection and disease progression is crucial because it highlights the role of early testing and intervention. Many individuals may carry and transmit infections unknowingly, which reinforces the need for routine screening—even in the absence of symptoms.Why Routine Testing Is Important When You Are Sexually Active?One of the most concerning aspects of STIs is how quietly they can progress. Asymptomatic carriers often delay testing, inadvertently spreading infections and risking long-term health effects. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and World Health Organization (WHO) both emphasize regular STI screening for anyone who is sexually active, especially individuals with multiple partners or those engaging in unprotected sex.“Many people wait until symptoms appear, but by then, damage could already be done,” says Dr. Mahajan. “Regular testing is a form of self-care and a responsibility to your partners.”If left untreated, STIs can result in:Chronic pelvic painInfertility in both men and womenEctopic pregnanciesIncreased vulnerability to HIV and other infectionsNeurological and organ damage in severe cases like late-stage syphilisCommon STIsChlamydiaA bacterial infection that is often symptom-free, especially in women. When symptoms appear, they may include unusual discharge, painful urination, or pain during intercourse. If not treated promptly, it can cause PID in women and epididymitis in men—both affecting fertility.GonorrheaAlso known as “the clap,” gonorrhea can cause genital pain, discharge, and inflammation. If untreated, it may lead to systemic infection known as Disseminated Gonococcal Infection (DGI), which includes joint pain, fever, and skin sores.SyphilisAn infection that evolves in stages. “The early stages involve painless sores, which are often ignored,” Dr. Mahajan warns. As it advances, it causes rashes, flu-like symptoms, and eventually can lead to brain and organ damage. Syphilis remains curable with early antibiotic treatment.HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)HIV weakens the immune system and can remain asymptomatic for years before progressing to AIDS. “Early detection and treatment with antiretroviral therapy (ART) can dramatically change the trajectory of the condition,” says Dr. Mahajan. “It transforms HIV into a manageable chronic condition.”Ways To Prevent Sexually Transmitted DiseasesWhen it comes to preventing STIs, knowledge and consistency are key.1. Use Protection Consistently“Condoms are still one of the most effective barriers against many STIs,” affirms Dr. Mahajan. Used correctly, they can significantly reduce transmission risks.2. Get Tested RegularlyEven if you're in a monogamous relationship or show no symptoms, routine testing should be a part of your health checklist. Testing intervals may vary depending on your risk profile, but annual screenings are a good starting point.3. Have Open Conversations with PartnersSexual health should never be a taboo topic in relationships. “Discussing STI history and protection methods isn’t just responsible—it builds trust,” says Dr. Mahajan.4. Vaccination MattersVaccines are available for some STIs like HPV and Hepatitis B. Check with your healthcare provider about vaccination schedules and eligibility.STIs are not a moral failing. They are medical conditions that require attention, not judgment. Unfortunately, stigma remains a barrier, often preventing individuals from seeking timely care.“People are often embarrassed or fearful to even talk about STIs,” says Dr. Mahajan. “This silence is dangerous. We need to normalize these conversations to promote better health outcomes.”From cultural taboos to misinformation, stigma around STIs can perpetuate cycles of neglect and misinformation. Public health campaigns, inclusive sexual education, and non-judgmental medical care are essential steps in changing this narrative.Understanding the distinction between STIs and STDs is more than academic—it’s empowering. As Dr. Mahajan emphasizes, “With awareness, testing, treatment, and open dialogue, most STIs are manageable, many are curable, and all are preventable.”