STIs and STDs: Get informed without judgment

STIs, also called STDs, are part of the reality of every sex life. Yet we still talk about them too little, often too late, and rarely in a clear way. If you have questions about risks, prevention, or the figures in France, you’re exactly where you need to be. Here, I’ll explain clearly what you need to know to make informed decisions, without unnecessary stress but without naivety either. Because a fulfilling sex life also involves being informed.

What is an STI / STD?

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

Some STIs can be easily treated with appropriate treatment, particularly bacterial infections. Others, such as HIV or herpes, require long-term medical follow-up. 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 manageable depending on the type
• Prevention is possible in most cases

Sexual behaviors and risks by age

15–24 years: 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 still not systematic.

Since many infections are silent, they can progress undetected. This is often when initial prevention habits are developed.

25–39 years: new dynamics

This age group often corresponds to periods of transition: new relationships, breakups, and new 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, especially because contraception is no longer a concern.

Yet the data shows an increase in STIs in this population, mainly linked 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 change the risk in itself. 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.

Lack of communication 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 start.

How to talk about it simply

You can present screening as a joint step: taking a test together before going any further, without accusations or suspicion.

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

The most effective prevention methods

The condom

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

Getting tested regularly 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 HIV treatment intended for people exposed to a risk of infection. It greatly reduces the likelihood of infection when used under medical supervision.

Warning: it does not protect against other STIs.

Hygiene and accessories

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

To care for your 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 annual infections from 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
• Increasing numbers of gonorrhea and syphilis cases
• More than 5,000 new HIV diagnoses each 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 lives. They are common, often invisible, but largely preventable.

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