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| Common STDs Myths Busted |
The unfortunate fact is that STDs are very prevalent. According to a recent survey report, rates for Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis have risen for the first time since 2006. (some by pretty alarming margins). And the majority of those at risk are women and young people.
And despite the reports and sexual discussions, there is still a lot of false information floating around regarding how STDs are contracted and avoided.
There are many myths about STDs in circulation in society, but which ones are based on facts?
Myth 1: Oral sex cannot transmit STDs
Fact: The likelihood of getting an STD increases significantly during vaginal and anal sex, but oral sex can still transmit the disease. Chlamydia, Syphilis, Hepatitis B, and Gonorrhea are the most prevalent STDs that can be spread through oral sex.
Use the right precautions, such as condoms and dental dams, to reduce your risk of getting an STD from oral sex.
Myth 2: Condoms are 100% effective at preventing the spread of STDs.
Fact: Contrary to popular belief, condoms can significantly lower the risk of getting an STD. Skin-on-skin contact can spread STDs like Genital Warts, Herpes, or HPV if the infected person has them.
There is a risk of transmission in these situations if the condom does not completely cover or protect against the infected area.
Myth 3: Unless you have a lot of sex with many people, you shouldn't be concerned about STDs.
Fact: No matter how many people you sleep with, STDs are still a concern. Even if you don't engage in penetrative sex on your first date, you still run the risk of contracting an STD.
When having sex, make sure to use the proper protection and, if at all possible, have both partners tested for STDs.
Myth 4: You Can't Get an STD if You Don't Have Sex
Fact: Unsex is not necessary to contract an STD. An STD can be contracted through anal sex, oral sex, or even just kissing or touching an infected area of your partner's body. You don't even need to have penetrative vaginal sex to do so.
Additionally, STDs can be acquired through non-sexual activity. Sharing needles or other blood-contaminated items raises your risk of getting a number of infections, including STDs.
Myth 5: Even without being tested, you'd be able to tell if you had an STD.
Fact: Some STDs, including Chlamydia, Trichomoniasis, and Herpes, frequently don't have symptoms and can go unnoticed. Only mild symptoms may occasionally appear, and these are easily confused with other health issues like thrush, BV, UTIs, or even just psoriasis or eczema.
As a result, it is crucial to regularly check your sexual health, especially before starting a new sexual relationship or following a one-night stand.
Myth 6: An STD Will Clear Up on Its Own
Fact: While some STDs, like HPV, can go away on their own over time, the majority need to be treated in order to prevent the disease from progressing and leading to more serious health issues.
Additionally, some STDs are incurable, meaning that if you contract them, you would have to live with them for the rest of your life. Symptoms could be controlled with treatment, but the disease would not go away.
As soon as the incubation period has passed, you should get checked if you suspect you may have an STD in order to receive effective treatment and avoid spreading the infection to others.
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