Due to a lack of knowledge, many people misunderstand sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These are also known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). At some point in their lives, more than half of all people will contract an STD or STI. However, according to a study one in every two sexually active persons will develop an STD/STI by the age of 25. STDs are extremely widespread. These infections are easily transmitted. Moreover, they eventually pass from one person to another through close contact. Some STDs are spread by skin-to-skin contact with an infected region or sore and do not require sexual contact. So, it is critical to test oneself before having sex.
STDs- Myths VS Facts
MYTH: The Pill protects you from STIs.
FACT: STDs do not prevent by taking the Pill. Its sole purpose is to prevent pregnancy. You should test yourself if you are taking the Pill because you believe it protects you from STDs.
MYTH: You can only contract herpes if your spouse is already infected.
FACT: You may feel surprised to learn that many people with herpes are unaware of it. Herpes signs might go unnoticed for weeks before erupting. So, even if your partner appears to be in good condition. They could be already infected with the herpes virus and transfer it to you. Be wise – test yourself and ask your partner for a checkup as well.
MYTH: STIs do not affect teenagers.
FACT: Every year, around three million youngsters contract an STD. By the age of 24, one in every three sexually active young people would have contracted an STD.
MYTH: Is having an STD kill you?
FACT: You should be aware that all STIs, including HIV, are treatable and curable. Some STDs can result in major health issues or long-term consequences. Such as infertility in women. If HIV/AIDS, and STDs that assaults your immune system, are not already treated. It might lead to death.
MYTH: If in a relationship, there is no worry about STDs, right?
FACT: Your partner may have an STD without realizing it. So, keep a check on your partner’s sexual history. It is critical to talk about sexual health and see a doctor to get both of you tested before engaging in sexual activity with a new partner.
MYTH: Is it true that having sex in a hot tub lowers my risk?
FACT: Chlorine, may kill any bacterium and minimize the danger of infection. But it does not affect STDs the risk of STDs. The chemicals may trigger additional vaginal infections.
MYTH: STDs can only transmit through sexual contact.
FACT: Some STDs, such as genital warts and herpes, can transmit simply by rubbing genital areas together. Others, such as HIV, transmit through oral sex. Both vaginal (penis to the vagina) and anal (penis to anus) intercourse can transmit STIs.
MYTH: STDs are curable.
FACT: While some STDs, such as Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are treatable with medications. Other STDs, including herpes, genital warts, and HIV/AIDS are manageable.
MYTH: There is no way to avoid contracting STDs.
FACT: There are numerous ways to safeguard oneself! The only way to be sure is to avoid having sex. If you do have sex, you can prevent STDs by always using a condom with enough water-based lubricant. Having intercourse with only one person who is only having sex with you is one strategy to lower your STD risk.
MYTH: You can determine if someone has an STD just by looking at them.
FACT: Symptoms of an STD do not always appear straight away. You can not see someone’s STD just because they have one. You could have an STD and be completely unaware of it.
MYTH: If I have an STD, such as HIV, there is nothing I can do.
FACT: Many STDs, including HIV, are curable or treatable. The sooner you find out whether you have an STD. The sooner you can get treatment or take precautions to avoid spreading it to others. Various STDs require different therapies.
Some thoughts and bits of advice to Teens
The soon you test yourselves and know your results. The better you can safeguard your own and your partner’s health (s). Although abstaining from sex is the greatest approach to avoid STIs. Using latex condoms every time you have sex is a close second. STD symptoms are not usually visible. So even if you have modest symptoms, you should contact a doctor. If you have a teen at home. You should not worry. Just give them the right guidance. Tell your teen that they only need to know some important facts. For instance, the only method to avoid STIs (and pregnancy) completely is to avoid sex in any manner. If you do have sex, Always use a condom. If you have had sex, just book a test for STDs.
