The term sexually transmitted disease (STD) is used to refer to a health condition that is passed from one person to another through sexual contact. A person can get a sexually transmitted disease by having unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has a disease.

But sex is not the only way of transmitting sexually transmitted diseases. Depending on the specific disease, they can also be transmitted through the use of the same needles and breastfeeding.

Symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases in men

- pain or discomfort during sex or urination
- sores, lumps, or redness in or around the penis, testicles, anus, buttocks, thighs or mouth
- unusual discharge or bleeding from the penis
- painful or swollen testicles

Symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases in women

- pain or discomfort during sex or urination
- sores, lumps, or redness in or around the vagina, anus, buttocks, thighs or mouth
- unusual discharge or bleeding from the vagina
- itching in or around the vagina

Note: Specific symptoms may vary. Some infectious diseases show no symptoms at all, so routine checks and safe sex are advised. Many SSTs can be treated and cured, especially if diagnosed early.

Sources: Mayo Clinic, Healthline