What are 4 ways that STDs can spread?
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) (or sexually transmitted infections, STIs) are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact.
STDs are usually spread during:
- Vaginal sex
- Oral sex
- Anal sex
- Skin-to-skin contact (sometimes) – e.g. herpes and HPV, can be spread in this way
But sometimes STDs can be spread through other sexual contact involving the penis, vagina, mouth, or anus.
Some STDs can be passed from a pregnant person to the baby, either during pregnancy or when giving birth. Other ways that some STDs may be spread include during breastfeeding, through blood transfusions, or by sharing needles.
