Yes. That is the straightforward answer to the question in the title.
You can transmit or contract an STD to and from an individual even with no symptoms displayed. In fact, many STDs are known to be asymptomatic in the early stages, which is the main reason for their spread. In fact, we have noticed the number of STD cases rising exponentially all over the world.
The misconception that asymptomatic individuals cannot spread STDs is probably one of the reasons for the phenomenon. Hence, if you are currently sexually active or have been planning to take your relationship to the next level, here are two facts you need to ascertain about STDs.
Fact #1: STDs can be asymptomatic
The only way to ascertain the possibility of having an STD is to conduct an STD test. Several STDs, such as gonorrhoea and chlamydia, display little to no symptoms among most individuals. In fact, studies have shown that a minimum of 50 and 70 per cent of men and women, respectively, display no prior symptoms of being tested positive for the two mentioned STDs.
Syphilis is another example of an asymptomatic STD that can result in severe consequences, such as spreading to the nervous system and brain. HIV can also be spread asymptomatically. Once the virus enters your body, it spreads by affecting your immune system. Symptoms might surface only in the advanced stage when the damage becomes more extensive.
Fact #2: Despite testing negative, you can still suffer from an STD
One crucial aspect of STD you and your partner need to understand is that even if both are tested negative for STDs, there is still the risk of acquiring it. Hence, we cannot emphasise enough the importance of practising safe sex and going for regular testing. This is because some bacteria and viruses take time to develop before showing up as positive on test results.
This developing time is known as the latency period. For gonorrhoea, the latency period can take anywhere from five days up to even two weeks. Hence, if you conduct an STD test for gonorrhoea before the latency period, the test will not display the right results.
Additionally, the method of testing also plays a part in affecting your STD status. For example, chlamydia and gonorrhoea are usually tested through the genitals. However, the two diseases can be transmitted both orally and anally. Hence, a positive result can be missed if not tested in all ways.
Testing and contraception are your best bet
With that being said, one can see the complication and challenge behind STDs. That is why the world is constantly challenged with battling the spread of STDs. Nevertheless, there are things you can do to ensure that both you and your partner can have a healthy sex life.
The first and foremost priority is to conduct testing for common STDs. In fact, you should conduct STD tests at least once annually whenever you get into a new relationship or change your sex partner. Individuals with high-risk behaviours, such as engaging in unprotected sex with multiple partners, should conduct even more regular testing.
Secondly, unless you are planning to get pregnant, relying on barrier contraception, such as condoms, ensures protection against most STDs. However, it is more than just using them; it is also about using them correctly.
Lastly, be open with your partner. STDs should not be a worrying factor in your relationship. Yet, it is also the one thing that both you and your partner should be aware of. Being honest and open with one another, setting distinct boundaries, and taking proper measures to prevent unfortunate situations from occurring is one way of building intimacy healthily.
At the end of the day, nobody is going to be responsible for your own protection except yourself. Hence, you should prioritise protecting yourself before protecting others. For more information about taking preventive measures that align with your current lifestyle, you may contact us, and our clinicians will assist you confidentially.
