STIs & STDs are different. Learn how & what our urgent care clinic offers for discreet care & treatment for both. Walk-ins are welcome.
Let’s be honest, talking about sexual health isn’t always easy. Whether you’re out enjoying a meal on Main Street or catching up with friends over coffee at Defined Coffee, it’s probably not a topic that comes up in everyday conversation. But understanding the difference between STIs and STDs can make a big impact on your health and the health of those you care about.
At AFC Urgent Care Mooresville, we’re here to help clear things up. If you’ve seen both terms, STI and STD, used online or in health articles, you’re not alone in wondering: what’s the difference, and does it even matter? Let’s break it down.
Is There a Real Difference Between an STD and an STI?
Yes, and it’s all in the name.
- STD stands for sexually transmitted disease.
- STI stands for sexually transmitted infection.
The term STI is now used more frequently by medical professionals because it’s more accurate in most cases. Here’s why:
- Infection means a virus, bacteria, or parasite has entered the body but may not be causing symptoms yet.
- Disease means that infection has started to show symptoms or is causing damage to the body.
So, every STD starts as an STI. But not every STI turns into a disease.
For example, someone might contract chlamydia (an STI) and not show any signs or symptoms at all. But if left untreated, that infection could lead to complications like pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which is where it becomes classified as an STD.
Why Do Doctors Prefer “STI” Over “STD”?
It really comes down to awareness and prevention. Many STIs don’t show symptoms right away, or ever, but they can still be spread from person to person.
By using the term infection, healthcare providers aim to:
- Emphasize the importance of early detection
- Reduce the stigma that often comes with the word “disease”
- Encourage more people to get tested even if they feel fine
Calling something an infection rather than a disease also reminds people that it’s often easier to treat or manage before symptoms start or complications develop.
Common STIs That Might Not Show Symptoms
Some of the most common sexually transmitted infections can go unnoticed for months—or even years, if you’re not getting tested regularly.
Here are a few you should know about:
- Chlamydia: Very common, especially in young adults. Often it has no symptoms.
- Gonorrhea: Can affect the genitals, throat, or rectum. Also, frequently symptomless.
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus): Most common STI in the U.S. Some strains cause genital warts, but most people don’t know they have it.
- Herpes (HSV-1 & HSV-2): Many people carry the virus and never show symptoms.
- HIV: May not cause symptoms for years, but early detection makes a huge difference in managing the virus.
Getting tested even when you feel fine is the best way to stay healthy and prevent the unintentional spread of these infections.
Should I Still Be Worried if It’s “Just” an Infection?
Short answer: yes. Even if you don’t have symptoms, STIs can still cause serious health problems down the line. Left untreated, they can lead to:
- Infertility
- Chronic pelvic pain
- Complications during pregnancy
- Increased risk of contracting other STIs, including HIV
And if you’re in a relationship or thinking about becoming sexually active, knowing your status helps protect your partner too.
What Happens if I Do Test Positive?
The good news? Most STIs are completely treatable, especially if caught early. At AFC Mooresville, our providers are here to guide you through every step:
- Testing is quick, simple, and private
- Treatment for many STIs is as easy as a round of antibiotics
- Support is available without judgment – we’re here to help you stay healthy
Whether you have symptoms or just want peace of mind, regular testing is part of smart, proactive health care.
How Can I Get Tested in Mooresville?
You don’t need to schedule a doctor’s appointment weeks in advance. At AFC Urgent Care Mooresville, we offer:
- Walk-in STI testing, no appointment necessary
- Short wait times and fast results
- A comfortable, discreet environment where your privacy comes first
Whether you call it an STI or an STD, what really matters is knowing your status and taking charge of your sexual health. In Mooresville, AFC Urgent Care is your trusted local resource for quick, confidential testing and expert care so you can stay informed and stay protected.
Don’t wait until symptoms appear. Come see us at AFC Mooresville today and take the first step toward peace of mind.
