Let’s talk about it.
STIs, sexually transmitted infections, are incredibly common. According to the CDC, 1 in 2 sexually active people will contract an STI by age 25. It’s likely that someone you know has had one. It’s also likely that they didn’t talk about it, didn’t know what to do, or didn’t seek care because of fear, shame, or misinformation.
This kind of stigma can be harmful, and we want to help break that cycle.
At A Step Ahead Chattanooga, we believe everyone deserves access to accurate, shame-free information. We care deeply about helping our community feel empowered and supported when it comes to sexual health. That includes normalizing conversations about STIs and encouraging regular testing, treatment, and prevention.
STI stands for sexually transmitted infection, and it refers to any infection that’s primarily passed through sexual contact. There are more than 20 different types of STIs—some are caused by bacteria (like chlamydia or gonorrhea), some by viruses (like HPV or herpes), and some by parasites (like trichomoniasis).
You might be wondering: why “STI” instead of “STD”?
In recent years, “STI” has become the preferred term because it’s more accurate. “Infection” means the presence of a virus, bacteria, or parasite in the body, sometimes without any symptoms. “Disease” implies visible signs or symptoms, which many people with STIs never have.
So while all STDs are technically STIs, not all STIs become diseases. Using “STI” helps reduce stigma and better reflects the medical reality.
Many STIs have no symptoms at all, which is why regular testing is so important.
STIs can be passed from one person to another through a variety of ways. This includes:
Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has an STI
Skin-to-skin contact, such as with herpes or HPV
Sharing intimate items that haven’t been properly cleaned or protected
Contact with bodily fluids like semen, vaginal fluids, or blood
Some STIs, like HIV or hepatitis B, can also be transmitted through non-sexual contact, like sharing needles or from parent to baby during childbirth.
And here’s something a lot of people don’t realize:
You can contract an STI even if you’ve only had sex once, even if you’re in a committed relationship, and even if your partner has no symptoms. That’s why testing and open communication are key.
STIs are often associated with judgment; people hear “STI” and think “bad,” “irresponsible,” or “dirty.” But here’s the truth:
STIs aren’t a punishment for behavior.
You can get an STI the first time you have sex.
You can get an STI even if you used protection.
You can get an STI even if you’re in a committed relationship.
None of those things make someone “gross,” “dirty,” or “bad.” They just make someone human.
The shame and silence around STIs can stop people from getting tested or treated. That silence is what allows untreated infections to spread, and that’s something we can change.
We all have a part to play in smashing the stigma around STIs. Here are a few ways to start:
Use protection. External (male) and internal (female) condoms are the only birth control methods that also help prevent the spread of STIs. If you live or go to school in our service area (and are 18+) we offer free condoms by mail. Click 👉 Free Condom Request Form to get them delivered!
Get tested regularly. This is especially important if you have new or multiple partners.
Talk about it. Having open, honest conversations about STI status with partners helps normalize it and reduce fear.
Be mindful of your language. Avoid using stigmatizing words like “clean” or “dirty” to describe STI status.
Learn and share facts. A little knowledge goes a long way in challenging misinformation.
STI testing methods vary depending on the type of infection and are all generally painless. Some STIs, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be detected through a simple urine test. Other STIs, such as HIV and syphilis, require a blood test. Your provider will take a swab of a genital sore to test for herpes.
There are several places you can go for STI testing.
If you live or go to school in our 18-county service area and are requesting free birth control through A Step Ahead Chattanooga, you can ask for STI testing during your birth control appointment. Just talk to the healthcare provider when you go in for your visit.
To schedule an appointment, give us a call at 423-265-7837.
If you’re simply looking for a nearby clinic that offers STI testing, this tool from the CDC is a great place to start:
👉 GetTested.CDC.gov
While A Step Ahead Chattanooga focuses on removing barriers to contraception, we encourage individuals seeking STI education and services to consult the resources listed below.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Offers extensive information on STI prevention, testing, and treatment. CDC STI Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Conversation tips on how to talk to your partner(s) about testing. STI Testing Resources
American Sexual Health Association (ASHA): Provides educational materials and tools to reduce STI stigma. ASHA Resources
Tennessee Department of Health: Provides information on STI prevention and care activities in Tennessee. TDH STD Program
End the Syndemic Tennessee: A hub for harm reduction resources across the state. End the Syndemic TN
CEMPA Community Care: Offers testing and education in Hamilton County and surrounding areas. CEMPA Services
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