What STDs are associated with HIV?

It is common for people infected with syphilis, gonorrhea, and herpes to also have HIV. People with these STDs are more likely to get HIV in the future if they are not already infected.

Why am I at higher risk for HIV if I have an STD?

Behaviors and circumstances that put you at risk for STDs also put you at a higher risk for HIV infections. HIV can enter the bodily more easily if you have a sore or break in the skin from a preexisting STD.

What puts me at a greater risk for HIV and/or STDs?

• Having vaginal, anal, or oral sex without a condom
• Having multiple sex partners
• Having anonymous sex partners
• Greater sexual risk-taking when under the influence of drugs or alcohol

How can I prevent STDs and HIV?

The only way to completely avoid STDs and HIV is to abstain from oral, vaginal, and anal sex. For sexually active individuals, preventative measures can be taken to lower their chances of getting STDs:

• Use condoms correctly every time you have sex
• Avoid having sex under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Avoid risky sexual behavior
• Reduce the number of sexual partners you have
• Talk to your doctor if you believe you may be at risk for STDs/HIV

If I already have HIV, and then I get an STD, does that put my sexual partner(s) at risk for HIV?

It is possible for you to pass HIV to your sexual partner(s). Preventative measures include:

• Using antiretroviral therapy (ART) which reduces the viral load in your body. It can keep you healthy for years and reduce the chances of passing HIV to your partner(s).
• Avoid risky sexual behavior
• Use condoms correctly every time you have sex
• Your partner(s) can talk to their healthcare provider about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) which can reduce their chances of getting HIV

Will treating my STD prevent me from getting HIV?

No. Treating STDs can help prevent complications and spreading the disease to your partners. Talk to your doctor about how to treat and prevent STDs and HIV.

View more information on HIV.

You have the facts; now protect yourself and your sexual partners. Effective strategies for reducing STD risk include:

Abstinence

The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have sex.

Vaccination

Vaccines are safe, effective, and recommended ways to prevent hepatitis B and HPV. HPV vaccines for males and females can protect against some of the most common types of HPV. It is best to get all three doses (shots) before becoming sexually active. However, HPV vaccines are recommended for all teen girls and women through age 26 and all teen boys and men through age 21, who did not get all three doses of the vaccine when they were younger. You should also get vaccinated for hepatitis B if you were not vaccinated when you were younger.

Mutual Monogamy

Mutual monogamy means that you agree to be sexually active with only one person, who has agreed to be sexually active only with you. Being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner is one of the most reliable ways to avoid STDs. But you must both be certain you are not infected with STDs. It is important to have an open and honest conversation with your partner.

Reduced Number of Partners

Reducing your number of partners can decrease your risk for STDs. It is still important that you and your partner get tested, and that you share your test results with one another.

Condoms

Correct and consistent use of the male latex condom is highly effective in reducing STD transmission.

Know your CONDOM DOs & DON’Ts.

• Centers for Disease Control & Prevention – Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
• STD Fact Sheets