How Common Are STDs?
STDs are very common in the United States. The CDC estimates that millions of new infections occur every year, and that roughly one in five people in the US has an STD at any given time. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are among the most frequently reported infections, and HPV is so widespread that most sexually active people will get it at some point. These numbers are likely higher than reported because many infections go undiagnosed. The takeaway is that having an STD is not rare, and testing is a normal part of staying healthy.
How Many People Have STDs
The CDC estimates that about one in five people in the United States has an STD at any given time. Millions of new infections are reported each year, and the true number is higher because many go undiagnosed. These infections affect people of all ages, though young adults and certain groups face higher rates.
The Most Common STDs
HPV is the most common STD, and most sexually active people will get it at some point. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are the most frequently reported bacterial infections, with hundreds of thousands of cases each year. Herpes, syphilis, and HIV are also common. Each has different risks, but all are worth testing for.
Why Numbers Are Underreported
Many STDs cause no symptoms, so people do not know they have one and never get tested. This means official counts miss a large share of infections. Stigma also keeps some people from seeking testing or reporting. The real number of infections is almost certainly higher than what is reported.
What This Means for You
Because STDs are so common, testing is a normal and responsible part of being sexually active. You are not alone if you have one, and most are easy to treat when caught early. Routine testing protects your health and the health of your partners.
Testing and Prevention
Using condoms, limiting partners, and getting vaccinated against HPV and hepatitis B all reduce your risk. Regular testing catches infections early, when they are easiest to treat. Ordering a test online is private and convenient.
Because STDs are so common and often silent, regular screening is a practical health habit. The CDC recommends annual screening for sexually active women under 25 and routine HIV testing for all adults, with more frequent testing based on risk. A single visit with a urine sample and a blood draw can cover the most common infections, and at-home kits offer a private, convenient option. Since most infections are easily treated when found early, regular testing turns a very common problem into a rarely serious one.
Rates also vary by age and region. Young adults under 25 account for a large share of chlamydia and gonorrhea cases, and infection rates have risen in several groups in recent years. HIV is less common overall, but it remains a serious infection that is very manageable with modern treatment. Understanding these patterns helps you gauge your own risk and reinforces why consistent condom use, vaccination, and regular testing are the practical habits that keep these very common infections from becoming complicated ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of people have an STD?
The CDC estimates that about one in five people in the United States has an STD at any given time. This means STDs are very common, and having one is not rare. Many infections go undiagnosed, so the true number is likely higher.
What is the most common STD?
HPV is the most common STD. Most sexually active people will get it at some point. Chlamydia and gonorrhea are the most frequently reported bacterial infections, with hundreds of thousands of cases reported each year.
Are STD rates going up?
Reported cases of several STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, have risen in recent years according to the CDC. Better testing and reporting also play a role. This makes routine testing more important than ever.
Should I worry if I have an STD?
No. STDs are common and most are easy to treat when caught early. Bacterial STDs are curable with antibiotics, and viral STDs can be managed. Testing gives you clear answers and lets you protect your health and your partners.
Sources
- CDC. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Data and Statistics. https://www.cdc.gov/std/statistics/default.htm
- CDC. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) Overview. https://www.cdc.gov/std/default.htm
- MedlinePlus. Sexually Transmitted Diseases. https://medlineplus.gov/sexuallytransmitteddiseases.html
Ready to get tested? Order online through our partner and visit a local lab near you. No doctor's order or insurance required.
Order Lab Tests OnlineReviewed by the LabTestClinic Editorial Team
Our team researches and fact-checks all content to ensure accuracy. We update guides regularly to reflect current testing options, pricing, and laboratory accreditation standards.