Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections primarily spread through sexual contact, but they can also be transmitted non-sexually, such as from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth or pregnancy, or through blood products and tissue transfer. There are more than 30 microorganisms—viral, bacterial, protozoal, and parasitic—that can cause various STIs.

On World Sexual Health Day 2025, the focus is on raising awareness about safe sexual practices, testing, and early treatment to promote better sexual and reproductive health.

The Silent Threat: Asymptomatic STIs

One of the biggest challenges with STIs is that many do not show immediate symptoms, which leads to undiagnosed and untreated infections. Dr. Abhilasha Kochhar, Senior Consultant in Microbiology and Molecular Biology, emphasizes that most STIs remain asymptomatic. Symptoms, when they do appear, can include oral or genital ulcers, discharge from the vagina, urethra, or rectum, abdominal pain, fever, and rashes. However, even in the absence of symptoms, individuals may still be infected and can unknowingly transmit the infection to others.

Why the Rise in STI Diagnoses?

Factors contributing to the spread of STIs include biological, behavioral, and sexual factors:

• Biological factors such as age, immune status, and the nature of the infecting organism can influence the transmission.
• Behavioral factors play a crucial role—these include unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, inconsistent condom use, engaging in sexual activity with high-risk individuals such as sex workers, or participating in transactional sex.

Even individuals who avoid risky sexual behavior can be vulnerable if their partner has high-risk behaviors, such as drug injection or engaging in unprotected sex.

Importance of Early Detection and Laboratory Testing

The management of STIs involves several approaches:

1. Syndromic Approach: Common in India’s National AIDS and STD Control Program, where doctors treat patients based on symptoms. However, this is less effective for asymptomatic patients.
2. Laboratory-Assisted Approach: Laboratory testing is crucial for diagnosing asymptomatic cases, ensuring timely and accurate treatment. Tests for common STIs like HIV, Chlamydia, Syphilis, HPV, and Gonorrhea include serological tests for antibodies or antigens, and molecular tests like RT-PCR.

Asymptomatic individuals, often called ‘silent STIs’, remain infectious and are at risk of complications, which makes early screening especially important for high-risk individuals.

The Role of Screening

Screening for silent STIs is essential for individuals with a history of risky sexual behavior, even if they aren’t showing symptoms. It enables early diagnosis and treatment, prevents complications, and helps in detecting co-infections that may require simultaneous treatment.

Safe Practices for STI Prevention

Doctors suggest the following to reduce the risk of STIs:

• Use condoms consistently and correctly during every sexual act.
• Limit the number of sexual partners.
• Get regularly tested if you’re sexually active, especially if engaging in high-risk behaviors.
• Communicate openly with sexual partners about STIs and sexual health.

By promoting awareness and encouraging routine testing, we can work toward reducing the incidence of STIs and improving overall sexual health.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider before making decisions regarding your sexual health or treatment plans.

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