However, certain lifestyles expose some people to much greater risk than others. Celibate or monogamous lifestyles are the safest. On the other hand, frequent sexual contact with many partners is a major risk factor for exposure to all types of STDs. That's a major obstacle to controlling STDs. Many victims don't even know they are infected because symptoms are mild or nonexistent.
Gonorrhea often produces no symptoms in women, except vaginal itching or discharge.
Chlamydia may cause only minor burning or discomfort during urination. Viral hepatitis may cause only mild fatigue and fever. The symptoms of herpes may be mistaken for other types of skin rashes. STD symptoms are not always minor. As a general rule, anytime you notice a sore, swelling or discharge from anywhere near the genital area, you should suspect an STD until proven otherwise.