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Whether you've experienced it after sex with a partner or by yourself after masturbation, most of us are familiar with the refractory period. It's the time after climax when our bodies rest and recover, sometimes making a person lose interest in sex or even unable to orgasm, ejaculate or become erect.

  📖 6 min read 📅 Updated: March 4, 2026 👁️ 1 readers More You guide What will I learn? What's the Difference Between an STI and an STD? What Are the Symptoms of an STI? So What Are the Symptoms of an STD? What Infections and Diseases Are Transmitted by Sex? When Should You Get Tested? What Happens If I Test Positive for an STI or STD? What's the Difference Between an STI and an STD?What Are the Symptoms of an STI?So What Are the Symptoms of an STD?What Infections and Diseases Are Transmitted by Sex?When Should You Get Tested?What Happens If I Test Positive for an STI or STD? While sharing germs and diseases don't sound sexy at first blush, well, that's because it's not. Sex has the potential to be wildly hot, supremely fulfilling, and a meaningful way to connect with a person you care about. Understanding how diseases can be shared through sex and how to prevent them empowers you to approach all your sexy encounters safely.  And that leaves you free to focus on all the best parts of your romp — not worried about an unintended consequence. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common and impact millions of Americans each year. These two categories are similar and related, but they are different and are caused by many other germs. Being a responsible sexual partner understands what STIs and STDs are and how to avoid contracting or sharing them. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in five people in the United States had an STI in 2018 — that's around 68 million infections.  The same analysis from the CDC also revealed that: What's the Difference Between an STI and an STD? One key difference between these two is that an STI (infection) is only considered an STD (disease) when it starts causing symptoms.  So why are both of these terms in use? First, the term STD is pretty loaded — years of fear-based sex education and stigma can trigger a shame-based or adverse reaction in many people. And for many cases, STI is more accurate. Many people can have an infection with few to no symptoms and are easily preventable and resolvable with proper medical care.  Infection can turn into a disease, but not the other way around. In other words, all STDs start as STIs, but not all STIs become STDs. Got it, right?  Here's an example: When a person becomes infected with a pathogen like chlamydia, syphilis, HPV, or gonorrhea, the infection can be in their body — and can be shared with a sexual partner — without their knowledge. They may not show any outward symptoms of the condition, but a test would reveal that they have it. At this point, it would be considered an STI.  Once that person starts showing symptoms due to the infection (sores, discomfort, discharge, etc.), it's considered an STD — a disease.  What Are the Symptoms of an STI? Trick question, huh? An STI — by definition — doesn't show any symptoms. So What Are the Symptoms of an STD? Because there's a wide variety of STIs and STDs, numerous symptoms indicate you should make an appointment with a medical professional. Some of those symptoms can include: Sores or bumps around your genitals, anus, or mouth Pain or burning when you urinate Discharge from your penis Unusual or bad-smelling discharge from your vagina Unexpected or unusual bleeding from your genitals or anus Pain during sex Sore, swollen lymph nodes (especially those in your groin) Lower abdominal pain Fever Rash on your hands, feet, or coreRead: How to take care of your Vagina? What Infections and Diseases Are Transmitted by Sex? STIs and STDs The list of diseases and infections that are considered STDs and STIs is lengthy and includes: HIV/AIDS Hepatitis Chancroid Trichomoniasis Human papillomavirus and genital warts Herpes Gonorrhea Chlamydia Bacterial vaginosis Syphilis Scabies Pubic lice ("crabs") Pelvic inflammatory disease Mucopurulent cervicitis Each year, untreated STIs are thought to cause infertility in more than 24,000 American uterus owners. Some studies indicate that up to half of the sexually active people will contract an STI or STD before 25.  But the news isn't all bad: These infections are avoidable, many are manageable, and some are entirely curable.  When Should You Get Tested? Testing for STIs and STDs can help you detect an infection early — making it easier to treat — and can help you avoid sharing it with a sexual partner. Here's when you should get tested for an STI or STD: Before having sex with a new partner, each STI has its incubation period or length of time before it will cause a positive test result. Some areas are as short as a few days, and others are as long as a month. If you're considered high risk — if you have lots of partners, for example — you should schedule monthly testing. Otherwise, be sure to test before having sexual contact with a new partner. To be extra safe, have protected sex from preventing transmission of any germs.  If you have been exposed, if you've had sexual contact with a partner in the last 60 days who has tested positive for an STI or STD, get tried to find out whether it was shared with you.  If you're worried about symptoms. If you're experiencing symptoms like those listed above, or feel that something isn't right, talk to a medical professional.  Many locations offer discounted or even free testing and screening for STIs and STDs. There's virtually zero risk or drawbacks to getting tested and being confident that you're STI-free. Investing in your health and that of your partners is priceless. What Happens If I Test Positive for an STI or STD? First, don't panic or beat yourself up. Having an STI or STD doesn't mean you are dirty or have anything to be ashamed of. See above: These are very common and manageable. Some are curable — meaning treatment can eliminate them — and the rest are treatable, meaning that reliable treatments can help you manage any symptoms long-term. Second, have a thorough conversation with your medical provider about the next steps. A doctor can help you explore your options for treatment and let you know what further testing might be necessary.  You'll need to tell your recent and current partner(s) about your positive diagnosis so they can follow the same steps. It can be emotional and feel challenging, but it's essential. If you need support during this process, that's OK. You can enlist a trusted friend or family member to help or ask your doctor for a recommendation for mental health professional to support you as well. Finally, follow your doctor's directions on when it's safe to resume sexual activity without risking exposure to your partner(s). Use protection, and test until everyone comes back negative.   In the End... using condoms minimize the risk of STI One of the best ways to protect yourself from contracting an STI or developing an STD is to be aware of the risks and ways to keep yourself safe. No in-person sexual contact is entirely risk-free, but using condoms or other protection can minimize your risk. Even then, be sure that you have an open and honest conversation with your partner about your testing status and recent results. [[product 6653848485974]] [[product 6653816766550]] [[product 6653839835222]] [[product 6580135067734]] [[product 6580134543446]] [[product 6580134838358]] If you're not sure, it's always a good idea to check with your doctor. There's zero shame in getting tested. Taking steps to make sure that you and your partner are as safe as possible so you can focus on the pleasure at hand is super hot. References: ‌ Sexually Transmitted Infections Prevalence, Incidence, and Cost Estimates in the United States. (January 2021). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  ‌ The One Difference Between STIs and STDs — and How to Minimize Your Risk. (September 2020.) Healthline. ‌ Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). (October 2019). Mayo Clinic. ‌ STDs. (January 2021). BeforePlay.org. ‌ How long does it take for STD symptoms to show? (September 2020). Medical News Today. ‌ Your Guide to Dealing with a Positive STI Diagnosis. (December 2019). Shape. Continue your journey 📖 Guide Anal Vibrator Guide Curious about anal vibrators but nervous to try. 🔥 Guide A Helping Hand: The Benefits of Masturbating with Toys Using Sex Toys with others is excellent. 📖 Guide How to Safely Approach Anal Sex? Lubes, plugs, and probes—oh my. Disclaimers The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as, nor should it be considered a substitute for, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding sexual health or medical conditions. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this article. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor, go to the nearest emergency department, or call emergency services immediately. 📌 Quick navigation Jump to section... Introduction What's the Difference Between an STI and an STD? What Are the Symptoms of an STI? So What Are the Symptoms of an STD? What Infections and Diseases Are Transmitted by Sex? When Should You Get Tested? What Happens If I Test Positive for an STI or STD? In the End... Continue Your Journey

When you first start dating someone, you likely feel excited and nervous — each sighting of your new partner gives you sweaty palms. Five years later, you live together and see them every day. You care deeply about them, but at the same time, they've become a part of your life's routine and make you feel comfortable rather than nervous. 

Whether you're trying to take a new relationship to the next level or are looking for ways to spice up a current relationship, dirty talk can be a fun way to enhance communication between you and your partner while igniting your mutual lusts.

Many of us learned about condoms in a pretty unsexy environment: a high school or middle school health class. But if you're interested in preventing unintended pregnancy and/or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), condoms are a resource you don't want to leave in the drawer. 

People don’t always intend to make it a one-night stand, but sometimes it just turns out that way. Other times people are just out to have fun.

Over the years, the idea of marrying someone due to romantic love — versus status, power, or stability — has gone in and out of fashion, but the idea of soulmates has stuck around. Today, two-thirds of Americans believe in soulmates to some extent.

What little communication skills people do pick up are easily lost to digital distractions and passive listening. This lack of communication skills has a ripple effect across our relationships, widening an emotional disconnect that invariably leads to more significant issues. 

Though sex may be uncomfortable the first time, it shouldn't hurt. So, what does painful sex mean? There are several possible answers to that question, and you should talk to your healthcare provider about it. There are many different causes and treatment options available to help you.

When people think of sexual confidence, it’s common to think of someone who has a killer body and knows what to do in bed. But sexual confidence doesn’t come from your bra size or how many partners you’ve had.

Rough sex isn't easy to define. It covers a broad range of sexual activities, like more aggressive thrusting, more primal sex, spanking from behind, or even a full-blown BDSM scene. Different people will see the meaning of "rough" during sex differently.

Maybe you're dreaming solo. Or perhaps you're looking to share your fantasies with someone else or even act them out. Either way, stories are 100% kosher as long as you hold to three major principles:

It's vital to have an open and honest conversation about safety with your partner and be ready for the kinds of sex you plan to enjoy. Read on for some tips on how to have safe sex and ensure that prioritizing safety doesn't get in the way of your fun.

Sometimes, someone can be mentally aroused but not physically aroused or vice versa. It's just important to understand that arousal is a holistic process.

There are many reasons a woman might experience loss of sexual desire. Luckily, there are several ways to combat low libido and regain that fire.

When talking about sex, many of us use "sexual desire" and "sexual arousal" interchangeably. But are they the same thing? What is sexual arousal in the clinical sense? 

What are sex noises, and what do sex noises sound like? Moaning, grunting, gasping, screaming. People make all kinds of sounds during sex.

Growing up, you may have learned a lot about healthy eating habits or how to keep your house from falling around you, but a family rarely teaches their children what a healthy sexual relationship looks like. 

Talking about intimacy can feel awkward, but talking about sex doesn't have to be complicated. Here are some ideas for how to talk about sex with your partner.

The idea of orgasming alongside a penetrating partner is alluring and frequently portrayed in steamier shows and movies. However, it doesn’t always work out this way, and the anatomy behind vaginal orgasms is a bit more complicated than the media would have you believe.

Breathing is one thing you may not realize can enhance sexual pleasure, whether through solo play or a collaborative effort.

It turns out that sexual satisfaction and relationship happiness go hand in hand. Ensuring that your partner is happy and healthy relationship leads to a more fulfilling sex life.

‌Stress causes your body to release cortisol and epinephrine, which essentially puts your body into survival mode. It doesn't matter if you're worried about an important work presentation or something that isn't a life-or-death situation; the hormones released are the same. When your body is concerned with survival, sex drive is deprioritized.