Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are passed from one person to another during sexual contact (intimate skin-to-skin touching; vaginal, oral, or anal sex). STIs affect people of all ages, backgrounds, and ethnicities. In the U.S. alone there are approximately 19 million new cases each year, about half of which occur among young adults age 15-24 years. If you have symptoms of an STI, such as sores on the genitals, discharge from the penis or vagina, or lower abdominal / pelvic pain, it's important to get tested.
But remember:
- Many STIs do not cause any symptoms
- Many people have sexually transmitted infections and never know it
- Many people get or spread infections without ever having symptoms
For more information about STIs, please see:
The decision to get tested should be made between you and your healthcare provider. To make an appointment at Duke Student Health, please call 919-681-9355 or book online.