What's the difference between an STD and an STI?

An STD and an STI are essentially the same thing. STD stands for sexually transmitted disease while STI stands for sexually transmitted infection. We used to call them STDs but the reality is that they are, for the most part, not diseases but are instead infections. So STI is the new term.

STIs include gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, herpes, genital warts and HIV (to name a few). You can transmit most STIs through oral, anal and/or vaginal sex. The best way to prevent catching or giving an STI is to use condoms or dental dams.