Can an STD be dormant for years and you not know about it?

Answer by  DrkAng3Lx (47)

Syphilis and herpes are two STDs that can be dormant for a while before showing any symptons. Another is HIV, an STD that leads to AIDS, which may lay dormant for months or even years until it turns into full-blown AIDS and can be unnoticed unless you specifically get HIV testing for it.

Answer by  sunflower249 (338)

They will not usually be undetectable for years, but sometimes they can lie dormant for months or even a year without showing up on any tests. It is very possible to have an STD for years, even decades, without showing any symptoms, and to transmit it to others when you don't even know you have it.

Answer by  DRS (621)

Many sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea are symptomless, especially in men. Some symptoms can be extremely subtle and general, such as fever, fatigue, and headache. These infections do not need to be active to be detected. If you believe you have been exposed to an STD, seek medical testing. Most STDs are completely curable.

Answer by  John (9008)

Many sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV, herpes, HPV, and more, can exist in a person for years without showing any outward signs or symptoms. Thus, if you are sexually active, it is vital to get regularly tested. Blood tests will reveal these diseases even if you have no symptoms.