Sexually Transmitted Infection

Contents

Key Stage 3

Meaning

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is a pathogen passed form one organism to another during sexual intercourse.

About Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections used to be called sexually transmitted diseases but it was decided the word 'disease' was too upsetting for people so it was changed to 'infection' which was considered less negative.

Key Stage 4

Meaning

A sexually transmitted infection (STI) is a pathogen passed form one organism to another during sexual intercourse.

About Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections are spread by physical contact and the exchange of bodily fluids.

Some sexually transmitted infections you may have heard of:

• Thrush - A fungal infection.
• HIV - A virus which causes AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome).
• Gonorrhea - A bacterial infection.
• Chlamydia - A bacterial infection.
• Herpes - A virus which causes 'cold sores'.

References

Edexcel

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), page 113, GCSE Biology, Pearson, Edexcel