Translation guide
STI (sexually transmitted infection) in Japanese is most commonly referred to as 性感染症 (seikansenshō) in medical and formal contexts, or abbreviated as STI in casual or modern usage. This guide covers how to talk about STIs, get tested, and discuss symptoms naturally.
Referring to sexually transmitted infections in general, in medical, educational, or everyday conversation.
The standard medical and formal term for STI. Used in clinics, health materials, and serious discussion.
Condoms are effective for preventing STIs.
The English abbreviation is widely understood, especially among younger people and in casual conversation. Pronounced as English letters.
You should get tested for STIs.
An older term meaning 'venereal disease'. Still used colloquially but can sound dated or slightly stigmatizing. Use 性感染症 in formal contexts.
May carry negative connotations; prefer 性感染症 in sensitive situations.
Is there anyone who has had an STI?
Talking about STI testing, check-ups, or asking someone to get tested.
The standard phrase for 'get tested for STIs'. Use in any context.
I'm going to get tested for STIs.
A shorter, casual way to say 'STI test'. Common in conversation and online.
Where can you get an STI test?
Naming common STIs when discussing symptoms or diagnosis.
Chlamydia. Very common term in medical and everyday contexts.
Chlamydia often shows no symptoms.
Gonorrhea. Standard term.
Syphilis. Standard term.
HIV. Usually referred to by the English abbreviation. エイズ (AIDS) is also used.
Can I get an HIV test at the same time?
Herpes. Commonly used.
Describing symptoms or how STIs are spread.
In Japanese, the distinction between STI (infection) and STD (disease) is not always made in everyday language. 性感染症 covers both concepts. The English abbreviation STI is gaining popularity over STD in Japan, mirroring global trends.
When discussing STIs with a partner, direct translations like 'Do you have an STI?' (性感染症を持っていますか？) can sound accusatory. Instead, use phrases like 検査受けたことある？ (Have you ever been tested?) to keep the conversation natural and less confrontational.
淋病の治療には抗生物質を使います。
Antibiotics are used to treat gonorrhea.
梅毒の感染者が増えています。
Syphilis cases are increasing.
性器ヘルペスは再発することがあります。
Genital herpes can recur.
Many STIs are transmitted through sexual contact.