STD stands for Sexually Transmitted Disease. This term is often used interchangeably with STI (Sexually Transmitted Infection), although there is a subtle difference between the two. While an STI refers to an infection that may or may not cause symptoms, an STD refers to an infection that has already caused disease and symptoms.
Like STIs, there are many different types of STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), and HIV/AIDS. These infections can have serious health consequences, including infertility, cancer, and other chronic illnesses. Many STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning that a person can be infected without experiencing any symptoms.
Prevention of STDs involves practising safe sex, such as using condoms and getting regular STD testing. Early detection and treatment of STDs are essential to prevent the further spread of the disease and to minimize the risk of long-term health complications.
In addition to Sexually Transmitted Disease, STD can also stand for other medical abbreviations such as Subtotal Thyroidectomy (a surgical procedure to remove part of the thyroid gland), Sexually Transmitted Deformity (in the context of medical terminology), or Sexually Transmitted Diagnosis (in the context of medical research).