How Do STDs Spread?

Dr. Leonard Leng of ATA Medical Singapore.

Authored By: Dr. Leonard Leng.
Last updated: 13 Aug 2024.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) spread through various means, primarily involving sexual and intimate contact. Understanding how STDs are transmitted is essential for raising awareness and taking better precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones. This is especially important given how some STDs are easily transmitted and not curable.

Top 5 sexually transmitted infections STI in Singapore (2018).

Source: National Skin Centre

Common Modes of STD Transmission

Sexual Contact

The primary mode of STD transmission is through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. During these activities, the exchange of body fluids such as semen, vaginal secretions, and blood can transmit infections like chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and hepatitis B. Additionally, skin-to-skin contact with infected areas, such as sores or lesions, can spread infections like syphilis, herpes, and human papillomavirus (HPV).

Blood Transfusion and Needle Sharing

Infections such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C can be spread through contact with contaminated blood. This typically occurs through sharing needles or syringes for drug use, as well as through improperly sanitised equipment used in tattoos or piercings.

Sexual contact being the primary mode of STD transmission.

Mother-to-Child Transmission

Pregnant women with STDs can pass infections to their babies during childbirth or breastfeeding, a process known as vertical transmission. This can lead to serious health issues for the newborn, highlighting the importance of prenatal screening and treatment.

Other Bodily Fluids

STDs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and herpes can spread through saliva in an infected person's mouth or throat although the risk of transmission is lower compared to sexual contact.

Myths About STD Transmission

Myth: You can get STDs from toilet seats, or hugs and handshakes.
Fact: STDs are not spread through casual contact. These infections require direct contact with infected bodily fluids like semen, vaginal secretions, or blood. However, some STDs such as herpes are present in saliva and can be transmitted between individuals through deep and wet kissing. Organisms causing STDs are typically not able to survive outside the body.

Myth: Only those who are sexually active with multiple partners get STDs.
Fact: Anyone who is sexually active can get an STD, regardless of the number of partners. Using protection and getting regular screenings are key preventive measures.

Myth: You can tell if someone has an STD by looking at them.
Fact: Many STDs do not show visible symptoms. The only way to know for sure is through testing.

Myth: Once you’ve had an STD, you’re immune to it.
Fact: Having an STD once does not protect you from getting it again. Reinfection is possible, so it is important to take precautions.

Myth: Birth control pills protect against STDs.
Fact: Birth control pills only work to prevent pregnancy. They do not offer any protection against STDs. Using condoms is necessary to reduce the risk of STD transmission.

Preventive Measures and Practices

Effective prevention strategies can include:

Using Protection: Consistent and correct use of protection such as condoms and dental dams during sexual activity significantly reduces the risk of STD transmission.
Vaccination: Vaccines are available for certain STDs, such as HPV and hepatitis B, providing long-term protection.
Regular Testing: Regular screening for STDs helps in early detection and treatment, reducing the risk of complications and further transmission.
Safe Practices: Avoiding sharing needles and syringes. Ensure any medical or cosmetic procedures are done with disposable or sterilised equipment. Find out about the sterilisation process before undergoing any such procedures.

Condoms as effective preventive strategy against STDs.

Summary

Understanding how STDs spread empowers individuals to make informed choices and take control of their sexual health. By adopting safe practices like consistent condom use, getting vaccinated for preventable STDs, and undergoing regular testing, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting and transmitting infections. If you suspect you may have been exposed, it is strongly recommended to get tested for STDs.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, STDs can be spread through non-sexual means such as blood transfusions, sharing needles, and from mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding.

Sexual contact (vaginal, anal, and oral sex), blood transfusions and needle sharing, mother-to-child transmission, skin-to-skin contact with infected areas such as sores and lesions.

STDs spread primarily through direct contact with infected bodily fluids (semen, vaginal secretions, blood) or skin, typically during sexual activities.

A person gets an STD by having unprotected sex with an infected partner, sharing needles, or through infected blood transfusions.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) is considered one of the most transmissible STDs due to its spread through skin-to-skin contact.

Yes, certain STDs like herpes can be transmitted through kissing.

Many STDs do not show visible symptoms, so testing is the only reliable way to know if someone has an STD.

No, if both partners are STD-free and have no other sexual partners, the risk of contracting an STD is virtually nonexistent.

STDs caused by bacteria can generally be cured with treatment (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhoea), while others are manageable but not curable (e.g., herpes, HIV).

STDs generally require direct contact with infected fluids or skin such as sores or lesions; casual touching does not typically transmit STDs.

Condoms significantly reduce the risk of most STDs but are not 100% effective, especially against those that spread through skin-to-skin contact like HPV and herpes.

Your partner may have contracted an STD from previous sexual activity, sharing needles, or other risk behaviours. It's important to have an open, honest discussion and seek testing.

Some STDs can remain asymptomatic for months or even years, making regular screening crucial for sexually active individuals.

STDs that are not curable include HIV, herpes, and HPV. These infections can be managed with medication but not completely eradicated.

No, STDs cannot develop on their own; they are acquired through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated materials.