Is It Really an STD If You Don’t Have Symptoms?

June 1, 2025

Medical professional speaking to a patient in an office.

Let’s say you’re enjoying your usual booth at Waffle House when a conversation next to you catches your attention. Someone mentions that they recently heard there’s a difference between an “STI” and an “STD.” It’s a small moment, but it’s a good question. Is one more correct than the other? And does the word we use really make a difference?

If you’re wondering whether it’s “STI” or “STD,” you’re asking the right questions. Language shapes how we view health, and understanding the difference helps break down fear and stigma.

At AFC Urgent Care Chapman Hwy, we’re proud to offer respectful, confidential testing and care to support your wellness journey. Contact us or walk in anytime!

STI or STD: Does It Really Matter?

Kind of. Here’s the simple version:

STI: You have an infection. Might not even feel sick.
STD: The infection caused symptoms or other problems.

Think of it this way: All STDs come from STIs, but not every STI gets that serious.

That’s why testing regularly, even when you feel fine, is so important!

Do I Say STI or STD?

Language shapes how we think about health. “STD” has long been the common term, but it can carry a lot of stigma. “STI” is now more widely used because it sounds more medical and less judgmental. This shift helps more people feel comfortable getting tested.

Healthcare professionals still use both terms to ensure the message reaches as many people as possible. And regardless of wording, their mission is the same: to promote awareness, provide care, and prevent long-term health problems. Many STIs, like chlamydia or gonorrhea, don’t cause symptoms at first, which is why routine testing matters.