Facts About Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are so cringe. Why does something so awesome like sex have to be so … un-sexy?

We know no one wants to think about STIs, but the reality is that they’ve been around forever and can happen to anyone. In fact, about 1 in 5 people in the U.S. have an STI.

The happy ending here is you can have nice things like orgasms on a Sunday morning and vacation sex whenever — wherever — your inner Shakira wants to. You just have to be proactive about screening and protecting yourself.

Take our quiz to test your STI smarts and learn what women need to know about sexually transmitted infections.

1. Women are at greater risk for STIs than men.

2. Being monogamous means zero risk for STIs.

3. The most common STI is chlamydia.

4. You can get an STI from oral sex.

5. Douching helps protect against STIs.

6. You can’t get an STI in perimenopause or menopause.

7. You can get STIs from towels or clothing.

8. STI tests and Pap tests are the same thing.

9. Having an STI increases the risk of getting HIV.

10. Most STIs go away if you pray hard enough.

If you’re having sex, talk to your clinician about getting tested for STIs. Many STIs can be cured with prescription medications.