When it comes to talking about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) many people use slang or nicknames – sometimes out of embarrassment, humor, or just habit. While these terms aren’t always medically accurate or respectful they’re part of the language we use. Knowing these nicknames can help you stay informed and make conversations about sexual health more normal.

Here’s a list of some common STDs and their slang terms:

Understanding Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and can affect anyone who is sexually active. STIs can also be passed from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. Practicing safe sex and getting tested regularly are crucial steps in preventing the spread of STIs. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, sexually active individuals can protect their health and the health of their partners.

Gonorrhea Slang

  • The Clap: One of the most well-known nicknames, its origins are disputed. Some say it comes from the French word “clapier” meaning brothel as the infection was historically linked to these establishments. Others think it’s from the clapping motion used in historical treatments to “clear” the infection.
  • Drip: This one refers to the discharge symptom of gonorrhea, it’s a literal description.
  • Morning Drop: Refers to discharge symptoms that are most noticeable in the morning due to the overnight accumulation.

Syphilis Slang

  • The Pox: A term that’s been around for centuries, “The Pox” refers to the sores or “pox-like” lesions that can appear during the secondary stage of syphilis. It’s a nod to the historical impact of the disease which was once untreatable.
  • Bad Blood: This one has historical roots especially in communities where syphilis was common but not well understood, used as a euphemism when there was no medical clarity. The Tuskegee Syphilis experiment even used this term to attract patients. This experiment told male patients that they were being treated for “bad blood” when in reality, the U.S. government was studying the long-term effects of untreated syphilis on the human body.
  • Lues: From the Latin lues venerea meaning “venereal disease” it’s an older medical-sounding term for syphilis that references its long history.
  • The Great Imitator: Syphilis gained this nickname because it can mimic the symptoms of other infections. This trait allowed for many patients to be misdiagnosed in the early days of studying this disease.

Herpes Slang

  • The Gift That Keeps on Giving: This dark humor nickname references the lifelong nature of herpes as the virus stays in the body even after symptoms go away.
  • Fever Blisters: Used to describe oral herpes (HSV-1) this term refers to the tendency for outbreaks to occur during or after periods of stress or illness.
  • Cold Sores: A common synonym for fever blisters, this one refers to the sores that appear around the lips.
  • Herp: A casual shortened version of herpes used in everyday conversation.

HPV (Human Papillomavirus) Slang

  • Warts: Refers specifically to genital warts caused by certain strains of HPV. This term oversimplifies HPV which includes many strains not all of which cause visible warts.
  • HPV: Even in slang the acronym is used, it’s become part of the mainstream due to public health campaigns.

Pubic Lice Slang

  • Crabs: Named for the crab-like shape of the lice when viewed under a microscope. This one is descriptive and well-known.
  • Crotch Critters: A more playful but descriptive nickname that references the location and infestation of the lice.
  • The Itch: Refers to the intense itching caused by pubic lice, a symptom of the infestation.

About 3 million people get pubic lice in the US alone each year.

Chlamydia Slang

  • The Clap: While more commonly associated with gonorrhea this one is sometimes (though incorrectly) used to describe chlamydia.
  • The Clam: A playful and less common slang term, used jokingly and can downplay the seriousness of the infection.
  • Silent STD: Chlamydia gets this nickname because it often has no symptoms, so you can carry it unknowingly.
  • Gooey Stuff: A slang term for the discharge symptoms that can occur in some cases of chlamydia.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) Slang

  • The Virus: A shorthand for HIV that references its long-term presence and impact on the immune system.
  • Poz/Positive: Used in communities and conversations to indicate someone is HIV positive. Sometimes, it is used as a reclaimed term to reduce stigma.
  • Bug: This one is used in some circles to refer to HIV but is controversial and can be negative.
  • Gift: Used cynically or ironically to refer to transmission, often in a way that’s insensitive or humorous.
  • High Five: A less common term for HIV, used in a tongue-in-cheek way.
  • Slim: Historically used in some African countries to describe HIV/AIDS during the early years of the epidemic, refers to the “slimming” or wasting syndrome caused by the disease.

STD Transmission and Prevention

STDs can be spread through unprotected sex (vaginal, anal, oral) and skin-to-skin contact, and sharing sex toys that haven’t been washed or covered with a new condom. To prevent the spread of STDs practice safe sex. This means using condoms or dental dams during sex, getting tested regularly for STDs, limiting the number of sex partners, and not sharing sex toys or personal items. By doing so sexually active people can reduce the risk of getting or spreading STDs.

STD Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

STD symptoms can vary from person to person and STD to STD. Some common symptoms are:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Burning sensation while urinating
  • Dripping discharge
  • Sore throat
  • Swollen lymph nodes

If you suspect you have an STD get tested and diagnosed by a healthcare professional. STDs can be treated with antibiotics or antiviral medication and it’s important to finish the full course of treatment to ensure the infection is fully cleared. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and keep overall sexual health.

What to do if you have an STD

Getting an STD diagnosis can be stressful but remember STDs are common and treatable. Here’s what to do:

  • Inform your sex partners so they can get tested and treated.
  • Practice safe sex to prevent the spread of the STD.
  • Finish the full course of treatment to ensure the infection is fully cleared.
  • Get tested regularly to ensure the STD is fully cleared.
  • Get support from organizations or support groups if needed.

Remember having an STD is not a reflection of your worth or value as a person. Prioritize your sexual health and take steps to prevent the spread of STDs. By being informed and proactive you can manage your health responsibly.

Why these Sexually Transmitted Diseases Matter

STDs have had many names over the years. Some are colorful and others are straightforward. Many of these STDs got their names before treatments were created by modern medicine. Now with modern STD testing, these infections can be detected early. If you think you may have been exposed to one or more of these infections get tested now.

FAQs

Why is chlamydia called the drip?

Chlamydia is sometimes humorously referred to as “the drip,” although this nickname is more commonly associated with gonorrhea. The term “drip” is a cheeky nod to the unusual discharge symptom that can occur with these sexually transmitted infections.

What are some street names for gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea, a very common STI, has been given a variety of street names over the years, reflecting both its symptoms and the humor people often use to discuss it. The most famous nickname is “The Clap,” a term whose origins are debated—some say it comes from the French “clapier” meaning brothel, while others believe it refers to an old treatment involving clapping. Another term, “Drip,” is a straightforward nod to the infection’s dripping discharge symptom. “Morning Drop” is also used, highlighting the discharge that’s more noticeable in the morning.

Does chlamydia have a nickname?

Yes, chlamydia does have a few nicknames, often used in casual or humorous contexts. One of the more playful nicknames is “The Clam,” which adds a lighthearted twist to the conversation about this common STI.

What is the nickname for someone with chlamydia?

While there isn’t a widely recognized nickname specifically for someone with chlamydia, the infection itself is sometimes playfully referred to as “The Clam.”

What is a funny name for gonorrhea?

Gonorrhea, often the butt of many jokes, is humorously known as “The Clap.” The origins of this nickname are a bit of a mystery, with some saying it comes from the French word “clapier,” which means brothel, while others think it refers to an old treatment method involving a clapping motion. Another chuckle-worthy name is “Drip,” which directly points to the discharge symptom in a rather cheeky way. These playful names add a bit of levity to an otherwise serious topic.

Sources:
1 Urban Dictionary
2 Tuskegee Syphilis Experiment
3 Urban Thesaurus – Slang Terms for Venereal Diseases
4 Planned Parenthood