Are You At Risk? The Most Common STIs and How to Get Tested

STIs don’t care if you’re in a relationship, healthy, or have no symptoms—anyone can be at risk.

Introduction

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are far more common—and more silent—than most people realize. In fact, millions of people carry STIs without even knowing it, simply because many infections don’t cause noticeable symptoms.

Whether you’re dating, married, exploring, or simply taking charge of your health, STI testing should be part of your regular wellness routine. Early detection not only protects you—it also protects your partner and future fertility.

In this article, we’ll explore the most common STIs, the signs you shouldn’t ignore (even if you feel fine), and how simple, discreet testing can give you clarity and peace of mind.

🎧 Listen to This Episode of The Health Pulse Podcast
Think you’d know if you had an STI? The truth is, most people don’t. In this episode, we break down the most common sexually transmitted infections, the surprising rate of asymptomatic cases, and why routine testing is essential—even if you feel perfectly fine.

👇 Tap play to hear how simple, fast, and confidential STI testing can protect your health and your relationships.

Are STIs More Common Than You Think?

If you think STIs are only a concern for “other people,” it’s time to rethink that. According to the CDC, over 1 in 5 people in the U.S. has a sexually transmitted infection right now. And many of them don’t even know it.

Why? Because most STIs are asymptomatic—meaning they cause no noticeable symptoms. You can feel perfectly healthy and still carry an infection that could impact your health, your partner’s health, or future fertility.

The Real Numbers:

• Over 20 million new STI cases are diagnosed each year in the U.S. alone

• Chlamydia and gonorrhea are on the rise—especially among people under 30

• HPV is so common that nearly all sexually active adults will contract it at some point

Many people don’t get tested simply because they feel fine. But waiting for symptoms can lead to delayed treatment, unintended transmission, and in some cases, irreversible complications. (NIH)

In the next section, we’ll break down the most common STIs—what they look like (when they do show signs) and what happens if they’re left untreated.

The Most Common STIs—Symptoms and Silent Signs

STIs don’t always announce themselves. In fact, many are completely silent, especially in the early stages. That’s why regular testing—not just waiting for symptoms—is the key to protecting your health.

Let’s take a closer look at the most common STIs, how they might show up (if at all), and why early detection matters.

Chlamydia

• Often no symptoms, especially in women

• May cause: unusual discharge, pain during urination, lower abdominal discomfort

• If untreated, can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) or infertility

Gonorrhea

• Frequently overlaps with chlamydia in symptoms—or lacks them entirely

• Symptoms may include: burning sensation when urinating, genital discharge, or testicular pain

• Can spread to joints or the bloodstream if left untreated

Syphilis

• Known as the “great imitator” because of its varied symptoms

• Early signs: painless sore, followed by rash or flu-like symptoms

• Without treatment, it can cause neurological, cardiovascular, or organ damage

Trichomoniasis

• Often silent, especially in men

• May cause: itching, burning, unusual discharge

• Treatable with a single antibiotic—but easy to miss without testing

Herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2)

• May cause: painful sores, blisters, tingling sensations

• Many carriers never show symptoms but can still transmit the virus

• While not curable, it can be managed with antiviral medication

HPV (Human Papillomavirus)

• Most common STI worldwide

• Often no symptoms at all

• Certain strains can lead to cervical, anal, or throat cancers

• Routine screening (e.g., Pap tests and HPV co-testing) is key—especially for women

HIV

• Early symptoms may feel like the flu—or be completely absent

• Can go undetected for years while damaging the immune system

• Early detection and treatment allow people with HIV to live long, healthy lives

Who Should Get Tested (and When)?

If you’re sexually active, STI testing isn’t just a one-time thing—it’s part of routine health maintenance. Many people assume that testing is only for those with multiple partners or symptoms, but in reality, anyone can carry and transmit an STI, even in committed relationships.

You should get tested if you:

• Are sexually active, especially under age 30

• Have a new partner or multiple partners

• Have had unprotected sex (even once)

• Are starting a new relationship and want to be proactive

• Are pregnant or planning to be

• Have ever been diagnosed with an STI (you’re at higher risk for others)

• Have symptoms—even mild ones like discharge, irritation, or pelvic pain

• Haven’t been tested in the last 12 months

Even people in monogamous relationships can benefit from occasional testing—especially if either partner was sexually active before the relationship began. STIs can remain silent for years, and routine screening removes uncertainty.

In the next section, we’ll walk you through what STI testing actually involves—because knowing what to expect makes it easier to take that first step.

What to Expect During STI Testing?

STI testing is often quicker, easier, and more discreet than people expect. Whether done at a clinic or through an in-home service, most tests can be completed in under 20 minutes—with results often available in just a few days.

The type of test you receive depends on:

• Your symptoms (if any)

• Your sexual practices and exposure risks

• Whether you're testing as part of a routine screen or following a known exposure

Common STI Tests Include:

• Urine test: Often used to detect chlamydia and gonorrhea

• Blood test: Screens for HIV, syphilis, and herpes antibodies

• Swabs:

  • Throat or rectal swabs (if relevant to sexual activity)

  • Genital swabs (sometimes used in women or when symptoms are present)

• Pap smear + HPV test: For women, usually part of routine cervical cancer screening

STI testing is confidential, often covered by insurance, and available in-home for those who prefer privacy. The process is simple—and taking it seriously shows strength, not shame.

Next, we’ll talk about why testing is important even when you have no symptoms—and the silent damage untreated infections can cause over time.

Why Regular Testing Matters—Even Without Symptoms

One of the biggest misconceptions about STIs is that you’ll always know if you have one. The truth is, most STIs don’t cause obvious symptoms—especially in the early stages. That’s why regular testing is essential, even if you feel completely fine.

What Can Happen If an STI Goes Untreated?

• Chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to:

  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women

  • Infertility in both men and women

  • Chronic pain or testicular inflammation

• Syphilis may damage your nervous system, brain, or heart if undiagnosed

• HPV can lead to cervical, anal, or throat cancers over time

• HIV can go undetected for years while silently weakening the immune system

Regular testing isn’t just about avoiding discomfort—it’s about preserving your long-term health, preventing complications, and making sure your partners are safe too.

Even one missed infection can lead to years of silent damage. The good news? Early detection means early treatment—and in most cases, a full recovery.

Conclusion

STIs are far more common—and often more silent—than most people think. They don’t always come with symptoms, and they don’t discriminate based on age, relationship status, or how “safe” you feel your lifestyle is.

That’s why routine, respectful, and proactive STI testing matters. It’s not about fear—it’s about knowing your status, protecting your future health, and making informed decisions for yourself and your partner.

Whether it’s your first test, a routine checkup, or peace of mind before starting a new relationship, STI testing is simple, smart, and empowering.

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Knowledge isn’t just power—it’s protection. Take control of your health today.

Resources

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