Can an STD be dormant for years?

Answer by  Anita27 (656)

Many STDs have no signs or symptoms, so it is important to get tested by a doctor at least once per year if you are sexually active. If left untreated many STDs can cause serious problems down the road, and you may not know that you are infected until it has caused permant damage.

Answer by  mem0823 (27)

Yes. Infectous agents HPV (human papiloma virus) can cause problems such as cervical cancer. A person with this infection may never show any symptoms until the cancer grows. It can also cause eye infections in newborns born via vaginal delivery.

Answer by  pyritejenny (347)

Several STDs, including syphilis and chlamydia, can be dormant for decades. This is one reason why such diseases are so dangerous. Someone may believe they are fine until they learn they cannot have children due to chlamydia. Syphilis can go dormant until it causes serious nervous system damage, years later. Syphilis can be fatal.

Answer by  Hoffman (22)

While many STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases), also referred to as STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) are accompanied by bothersome side effects, some can manifest without symptoms. Additionally, individual reactions or body responses will be vary, based on personal health, making it possible to go undetected without proper medical attention.