STIs and STDs: Get informed without judgment

STIs, also known as STDs, are part of the reality of every sex life. Yet they are still discussed too little, often too late, and rarely in a clear way. If you have questions about risks, prevention, or the figures in France, you are exactly in the right place. Here, I explain concretely what you need to understand to make informed decisions, without unnecessary stress but without naivety either. Because a fulfilling sex life also starts with information.

What is an STI / STD?

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is an infection transmitted mainly through sexual intercourse, whether vaginal, anal, or oral. It can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.

Some STIs are easily treated with appropriate medication, particularly bacterial infections. Others, such as HIV or herpes, require long-term medical monitoring. The key point to remember: many STIs can be present without causing visible symptoms.

• Transmission through direct contact or bodily fluids
• Often asymptomatic
• Treatable or controllable depending on the type
• Prevention is possible in most cases

Sexual behaviors and risks by age

15–24: a high-risk period

Young adults are particularly affected by STIs, especially chlamydia. This can be explained by several factors: the beginning of sexual activity, inconsistent condom use, and screening that is not yet routine.

Because many infections are silent, they can progress undetected. It is often at this stage that initial prevention habits are formed.

25–39: new dynamics

This age group often corresponds to periods of transition: new relationships, breakups, and encounters. An increase in cases of gonorrhea and syphilis has been observed.

Letting protection lapse in relationships perceived as “stable” is a common factor in transmission.

Age 40 and over: an underestimated risk

After a separation or resuming sexual activity, condoms are often used less, particularly because contraception is no longer a concern.

However, data show an increase in STIs in this population, mainly due to a mistaken perception of risk.

No one is immune

STIs do not affect any specific type of person. Being in a relationship, single, or in an open relationship does not in itself change the risk. What matters is exposure and practices.

Some infections can even be transmitted through simple skin-to-skin contact. This means that partial protection does not completely eliminate the risk.

The lack of dialogue within a couple

Talking about screening or protection is still difficult. Many people hesitate for fear of creating awkwardness or being misunderstood.

Yet addressing these topics helps avoid misunderstandings and establish a reassuring framework from the outset.

How to talk about it simply

You can present screening as a joint step: getting tested together before going further, without accusation or suspicion.

This approach changes everything. It turns an uncomfortable discussion into a shared decision.

The most effective prevention methods

Condoms

Condoms remain the most accessible protection against STIs. They act as a mechanical barrier against viruses and bacteria.

You can find different formats suited to every use here: condoms.

Regular screening

Regular testing helps detect an infection early and prevent unknowingly transmitting it.

Vaccination

Vaccines are available against certain infections, such as hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV). They are part of public health recommendations.

PrEP

PrEP is a preventive treatment for HIV intended for people exposed to a risk. It greatly reduces the likelihood of infection when used under medical supervision.

Warning: it does not protect against other STIs.

Hygiene and accessories

Using a lubricant can help limit microtears and improve comfort. You can browse the lubricants collection.

For caring for accessories, choose suitable products available in the intimate hygiene collection.

Key figures worldwide

According to the World Health Organization:

• More than 1 million new STIs every day
• 374 million infections per year for the main bacterial STIs
• More than 500 million people live with genital herpes

The figures in France

Data from Santé publique France show an increase in screening and detected cases:

• More than 3 million chlamydia tests
• Increase in gonorrhea and syphilis cases
• More than 5,000 new HIV diagnoses per year

Around 24,000 people in France may be unaware that they are HIV-positive.

The most common STIs

Among the most common infections:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Syphilis
• HPV
• Genital herpes
• HIV

Key takeaways

STIs are part of modern sex life. They are common, often invisible, but largely preventable.

The winning trio is always the same: protection, screening, communication.