SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED DISEASES (STDS)
WHAT WE KNOW
Many people who have an STD don't know it. They may look and feel healthy, but they still could have an STD. Some people won't tell you they have one, even if they know.
If you have unprotected sex, you are at risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease, and you may not know if you are infected.
- Most people who have an STD do not have symptoms. A test by your healthcare provider may be the only way to tell if you're infected.
- If you do become infected, symptoms may appear right away or may not show up for weeks, months, or even years. They also may come and go. Even if the signs and symptoms go away, you can still infect other people if you have unprotected sex with them.
- If your partner has had unprotected sex, he or she may be infected and not know it.
- If left untreated, STDs can cause infertility, long-term pain, or cancer.
