Sexually Transmitted Infections
Let’s talk prevention, transmission, symptoms, and treatment.
5 STDs You Can Have Without Knowing It
These infections don't always cause symptoms.
By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.
Love Oral Sex? Great, Let’s Talk STIs.
Learn how to have fun safely.
By Rozalynn S. Frazier, C.P.T. and Korin MillerMedically reviewed by Alexis P. Melnick, MD
What Is Trichomoniasis? The Most Common STI You’ve Never Heard Of
Only 30% of people show symptoms.
By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.
5 Things to Know About the New and Highly Contagious Fungal STI
The first US case was reported in June.
By Kathleen Felton
What’s the Deal With At-Home STI Tests?
Clinics are often cheaper, but if you’re looking into a DIY option, here’s what to know.
By Mara SantilliMedically reviewed by Sanaz Ghazal, MD
How to Tell If You Have a Lip Zit or a Cold Sore
They can look a ton alike—but there are subtle differences.
By Mark HayMedically reviewed by Diane C. Madfes, MD
What Does ‘Normal’ Vaginal Discharge Usually Look and Smell Like?
Some colors, odors, and textures can be major red flags.
By Mara SantilliMedically reviewed by Biftu Mengesha, MD, MAS
How to Have Safe Sex With Genital Herpes
There’s a ton of misinformation around this super-common STI—but a diagnosis doesn’t spell doom for your hookups.
By Mark HayMedically reviewed by Alexis P. Melnick, MD
It’s a Great Time to Get Tested for STIs
Cases of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia have all gone up recently.
By Maggie O'Neill
SELF Daily
Make your inbox healthier and happier with the latest SELF stories, delivered fresh daily.
HPV Is Incredibly Common—But Most People Still Don’t Know It Can Cause Various Cancers
The vaccine, which is recommended for all young people, can prevent most types.
By Maggie O'Neill
A New Drug-Resistant Gonorrhea Strain Has Been Identified in the US—Here’s What to Know
The “concerning” cases had a reduced response to five types of antibiotics.
By Korin Miller
PSA: Don’t Sleep on the Campus Health Center When You’re in College
It's a one-stop shop for prescriptions, therapy, and free condoms.
By Kirsten Nunez
There’s Lots of Confusion and Stigma Around Monkeypox—Let’s Clear It Up
We have the tools and the responsibility to do better.
By Lindsay Lee Wallace
10 Possible Causes of a Swollen Vagina or Vulva—and How to Find Relief
First, take a closer look at the products you’re using.
By Korin MillerMedically reviewed by Shieva Ghofrany, MD, FACOG
How to Keep Your Vagina Healthy During Swimsuit Season
Don’t let infections or irritation kill your summer vibe.
By Carley MillhoneMedically reviewed by Sanaz Ghazal, MD
Why You May Have Gonorrhea Without Knowing It
Regular STI testing is so important.
By Rozalynn S. Frazier, C.P.T.Medically reviewed by Mary Jane Minkin, MD
Is This Why Your Penis Feels Like It’s Burning?
Hint: It’s not always an STI.
By Rachel Nall, MSN, CRNAMedically reviewed by Sevann Helo, MD
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Copper IUD?
Read this before you commit.
By Sara Lindberg and Korin MillerMedically reviewed by Mary Jane Minkin, MD
11 Possible Reasons Why It Seriously Burns When You Pee
And how to end the misery.
By Rozalynn S. Frazier, C.P.T. and Zahra ThompsonMedically reviewed by Sevann Helo, MD
Here’s How Genital Psoriasis Can Affect Your Life
It’s a sensitive topic for a sensitive area.
By Kathryn WatsonMedically reviewed by Fatima Fahs, MD
11 Sneaky Reasons Your Sex Drive Has Plummeted
And what you can do if it’s really bothering you.
By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T. and Jamie J. LeClaireMedically reviewed by Mary Jane Minkin, MD
Here’s the Truth About Having Sex With a Yeast Infection
Just because you can doesn’t mean you should.
By Sara LindbergMedically reviewed by Mary Jane Minkin, MD
9 Signs of Chlamydia Everyone With a Vagina Should Know
It’s often called a “silent” infection for a reason.
By Rozalynn S. Frazier, C.P.T.Medically reviewed by Mathew Devine, DO