Understanding the True Impact of Sexually Transmitted Infections on Health

By Elizabeth FosterLast Updated April 21, 2025

Introduction: The Lasting Impact of STIs on Health

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sometimes called sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are among the most common infectious diseases worldwide. While some STIs can be easily treated and cured, others may stay with you for life or cause ongoing health challenges. Understanding the true effects of STIs on your health is essential for making informed choices, protecting your well-being, and accessing the right care.

How Common Are STIs and Who Is at Risk?

More than 1 million curable STIs are acquired every day globally by people aged 15-49, with many cases going undiagnosed due to a lack of symptoms. Globally, hundreds of millions of people live with chronic viral STIs such as herpes simplex virus (HSV) and human papillomavirus (HPV) [5] . Anyone who is sexually active can contract an STI, regardless of age, gender, or sexual orientation. STIs can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex and sometimes even through close skin-to-skin contact [4] .

What Are the Real Health Consequences of STIs?

STIs can have a wide range of effects, from minor discomfort to serious, lifelong health problems. Here are some of the most important true statements about their impact:

Permanent Infertility and Reproductive Complications

Untreated STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause irreversible damage to the reproductive tract , including scarring and blockage of the fallopian tubes, which can lead to infertility and ectopic pregnancy [1] [3] . Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), a common complication in people with female reproductive organs, results in chronic pain and can affect your ability to have children. Approximately 1 million women in the U.S. develop PID every year, with over 100,000 cases leading to infertility [3] .

Increased Risk of Cancer

Certain STIs can increase your risk of developing cancer. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to over 311,000 cervical cancer deaths each year, as well as other genital and throat cancers [5] . Long-standing infection with hepatitis B or C (also transmitted sexually) can lead to liver cancer.

Complications During Pregnancy and for Newborns

STIs can cause severe pregnancy complications, such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and preterm delivery. Infections like syphilis can be transmitted from mother to child, leading to congenital syphilis, which may cause serious birth defects or death [2] . Active infections during pregnancy may also result in low birth weight and increased risk of newborn death [2] .

Enhanced Transmission of HIV

Having an untreated STI can significantly increase your risk of acquiring or transmitting HIV . This is because many STIs cause sores or inflammation, making it easier for HIV to enter the body or be passed to others [5] [4] .

Chronic Pain and Other Long-term Health Effects

Some STIs, if left untreated, cause chronic pelvic or abdominal pain . Others, such as herpes, remain in the body for life and can cause recurrent, painful outbreaks. The psychological burden of living with a lifelong infection or worrying about transmission to partners can also affect mental health, leading to anxiety or depression [1] .

Stigmatization and Social Consequences

STIs not only impact physical health but can also cause stigma and emotional distress. People diagnosed with an STI may fear judgment, relationship difficulties, or social isolation [5] .

What Makes STIs Especially Challenging?

Many STIs can be asymptomatic (showing no signs or symptoms), especially in the early stages. This means you or your partner may be infected and not know it, leading to unintentional transmission and increased risk of long-term health problems [4] . Routine testing is the only way to know your status and protect your health.

How to Protect Your Health: Actionable Steps

If you are sexually active, you can take the following steps to reduce your risk and safeguard your health:

Regular Screening: Speak with your healthcare provider about which STI tests are appropriate for you. Many clinics offer confidential testing. If you do not have a regular provider, you can search for local public health clinics or community health centers that offer STI testing. Use search terms like “STD clinic near me” or “public health STI testing”.
Prompt Treatment: If you are diagnosed with an STI, begin treatment as soon as possible. Many bacterial STIs are curable with antibiotics, and starting early can prevent complications. For viral infections, management plans can reduce symptoms and transmission risk.
Partner Notification and Treatment: Inform any sexual partners so that they can also get tested and treated if necessary, preventing reinfection and further spread.
Safer Sex Practices: Use condoms and dental dams consistently and correctly to reduce the risk of most STIs.
Vaccination: Vaccines are available for some STIs, such as HPV and hepatitis B. Ask your healthcare provider if you are eligible.

Accessing Care and Support

Access to STI screening and treatment is essential for personal and public health. If you need testing or treatment:

Contact your primary care provider or local health department. Many public health departments offer low-cost or free STI services. You can find your local health department by searching “county health department” along with your city or county name.
For confidential support and resources, consider reaching out to reputable organizations such as Planned Parenthood or the American Sexual Health Association.
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, inform your provider so that you receive the recommended STI screenings during pregnancy.

Overcoming Barriers to Care

Some people may hesitate to seek care due to concerns about privacy or stigma. Remember, testing and treatment are confidential, and early intervention is the best way to protect your health and the health of your partners. If you have questions or concerns, you can ask your provider about privacy protections and what to expect during a visit.

Alternative Pathways and Additional Guidance

Even if you do not have insurance or a regular healthcare provider, you can often access STI testing through community clinics, university health centers, or local nonprofits. In many areas, mobile clinics or telehealth options are also available. If you need help finding resources, your local health department is an excellent starting point for guidance and referrals.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Sexually transmitted infections can have far-reaching effects on your health, from reproductive complications and cancer risk to long-term pain, psychological distress, and increased HIV vulnerability. Many infections are silent but potentially dangerous if left untreated. Regular screening, prompt treatment, and open communication with partners and healthcare providers are vital. If you have questions or need services, contact your local health department or a trusted medical provider for support. Remember, the sooner you act, the better you can protect your health and future.