What is an STI?

An STI, or Sexually Transmitted Infection, is an infection that is spread through sexual contact. Depending on the STI, they can be spread through skin-to-skin contact or contact with bodily fluids. STIs are very common, and many are curable or treatable! There are also many ways to stay safe while having sex to prevent getting or spreading an STI! This includes getting tested, using a barrier (e.g., condoms) while having sex, and vaccinations. Some common symptoms of some STIs are pain or itching in the genital area, unusual smells or discharge from the genitals, pain while peeing, sores around the genitals, or pelvic. However, many STIs have no symptoms at all! To learn more about STIs, visit violetproject.org/stis