You’ve probably heard the old adage, “what you don’t know can’t hurt you.” But when it comes to sexually transmitted diseases, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Keep reading to learn more about the different types of STDs that can be dormant, their asymptomatic nature, and what they mean for your sexual health.
So, can STDs Really be Dormant?
Yes, some STDs can indeed be dormant. This ability to remain “dormant” or silent means that people often don’t realize they need treatment — or that they might be passing the infection to others.
Understanding Dormant STDs
When we say an STD is dormant, we mean that the infection is present in the body but not causing noticeable symptoms. This dormant state can last for weeks, months, or even years, depending on the specific infection.
During this time:
- The infected person may feel completely healthy and unaware of the infection
- The pathogen continues to live and potentially multiply in the body
- The infection can still be transmitted to sexual partners
- If left untreated, it may lead to complications over time
Which STDs Remain Dormant?
While each infection is unique in how it affects the body, they all share one troubling characteristic: the ability to cause damage while flying under the radar. Here’s what you need to know about a few common STDs and their ability to lay dormant.
1. Chlamydia
Chlamydia is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It’s estimated that about 70-80% of women and 50% of men with chlamydia do not experience symptoms, effectively making their infections dormant. This high rate of asymptomatic cases is why regular STD testing is crucial, especially for sexually active individuals.
Dormancy Period
The duration of chlamydia’s dormancy can vary from person to person. In some cases, the infection may become symptomatic within a few weeks of exposure. In others, it might remain dormant for months or even years. There’s no fixed timeline, which is why consistent testing is so important.
Risks
While dormant chlamydia may not cause immediate discomfort, it’s far from harmless. If left untreated, it can lead to serious health complications, including:
- Women: Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID), which can cause chronic pelvic pain, infertility, and ectopic pregnancies.
- Men: Epididymitis, which can lead to infertility if severe or left untreated.
- Both Sexes: Increased risk of HIV transmission and acquisition.
Testing
For both men and women, a simple urine sample is the most common type of Chlamydia test for both men and women. Results typically come back within a few days, and many clinics offer rapid testing with same-day results.
- Women 25 and older with new or multiple partners should also test yearly
- Pregnant women should be tested during their first prenatal visit
- Men who have sex with men should get tested at least annually
Note: After exposure to a new partner, wait 1-2 weeks before getting tested, as testing too early might miss the infection
2. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is the most common STD worldwide, with over 200 identified strains. Its ability to remain dormant for long periods makes it particularly challenging to detect and control.
Dormancy Period
HPV can remain dormant for years or even decades. Some individuals may clear the virus naturally within two years, while in others, it can persist undetected for much longer.
Risks
While many HPV strains are harmless, some high-risk types (such as HPV 16 and 18) can lead to various cancers if left undetected. These include:
- Cervical cancer (the most common HPV-related cancer)
- Anal cancer
- Oropharyngeal cancers (throat, tongue, and tonsils)
- Penile cancer
- Vulvar and vaginal cancers
Testing
- For women: Regular Pap smears are crucial for early detection of HPV-related cell changes in the cervix. The American Cancer Society recommends women 25-65 should have an HPV test every 5 years, or a Pap test every 3 years, or a combination of both every 5 years.
- For men: Currently, there’s no approved test for HPV in men. Regular physical exams and open communication with healthcare providers are important.
Prevention
HPV vaccines are available and highly effective at preventing infection from the most dangerous HPV strains. The CDC recommends vaccination for:
- All children at age 11-12
- Everyone through age 26, if not vaccinated already
- Some adults age 27-45 who are not already vaccinated, after consulting with their doctor
3. Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
Both HSV-1 (typically associated with oral herpes) and HSV-2 (typically associated with lower-body herpes) can cause genital herpes, and both can have extended periods of dormancy.
Dormancy period
Herpes can be lifelong, with the virus alternating between active and dormant phases. The initial infection is often followed by a latent period where the virus hides in nerve cells.
Risks
- Increased risk of HIV transmission and acquisition
- Potential complications during pregnancy, including neonatal herpes
- Rare complications such as encephalitis or meningitis
- Psychological distress due to recurring outbreaks
Testing
- Blood tests can detect HSV antibodies even during dormant periods.
- Viral culture or PCR tests can be done on sores during outbreaks.
Management
While there’s no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can shorten and suppress outbreaks, as well as reduce the risk of transmission to partners.
4. Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
HIV is known for its long asymptomatic period, during which the virus is actively weakening the immune system without causing noticeable symptoms.
Dormancy Period
The asymptomatic period of HIV can last several years. Without treatment, the median time from infection to AIDS diagnosis is about 10 years, but this can vary widely between individuals.
Risks
- Progression to AIDS if left untreated
- Increased susceptibility to opportunistic infections and certain cancers
- Higher risk of transmitting the virus to others, especially if unaware of the infection
- Long-term health complications affecting multiple organ systems
Testing
The CDC recommends that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 get tested for HIV at least once as part of routine health care.
Treatment and Prevention
- Antiretroviral therapy (ART) can suppress the virus to undetectable levels, allowing people with HIV to live long, healthy lives.
- Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is available for high-risk individuals to prevent HIV infection.
- Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can be used in emergency situations after potential exposure.
5. Syphilis
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that progresses through several stages, including a latent (dormant) stage. Its ability to mimic other diseases has earned it the nickname “the great imitator.”
Dormancy Period
The latent stage of syphilis can last for years. It’s divided into early latent (first year after infection) and late latent (after the first year).
Stages & Risks
- Primary stage: Painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection
- Secondary stage: Skin rashes and/or sores in the mouth, vagina, or anus
- Latent stage: No visible signs or symptoms
- Tertiary stage: Can occur 10-30 years after infection, affecting multiple organ systems
Treatment
Early testing is key to preventing long-term complications. Most cases of syphilis can be cured with antibiotics, like penicillin.
6. Hepatitis B and C
Both these viral infections can remain dormant for extended periods, silently damaging the liver.
- Hepatitis B Dormancy Period: This can be years or even decades. Some people clear the virus naturally, while others develop chronic infection.
- Hepatitis C Dormancy period: Can remain asymptomatic for decades. Many people are unaware they’re infected until liver damage is advanced.
The Importance of Regular STD Testing
Many people mistakenly believe that the absence of symptoms means they are STD-free. However, as we’ve seen, many STDs can lurk silently in the body for years or even decades.
If you suspect you may have an STD or have been exposed to one, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice and get tested. Remember, early detection and treatment are key to preventing the spread of STDs and protecting your long-term health.