April is STI Awareness Month—aka the perfect time to get real about sexual health. Despite more open conversations these days, there’s still a lot of shame and false info floating around about STIs (sexually transmitted infections). Which makes it harder for people to speak up, get tested, or even know what signs to look out for. So let’s clear the air and break down some common myths—no judgement, just facts.
Myth Busting Time
Myth #1: “Only people who “sleep around” get STIs”
Fact: Anyone who’s sexually active can get an STI—even if you’ve had one partner. It’s not about how many times you’ve had sex, it’s about exposure. If there’s skin-to-skin contact or an exchange of bodily fluids, STIs can spread. Using barrier methods like condoms, dental dams, gloves, or finger cots can help reduce the risk.
Myth #2: “You can’t get an STI from oral sex”
Fact: STIs like herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and HPV can be passed through oral sex. It’s still a form of sexual contact, and there’s still fluid exchange. Use barrier methods like flavored condoms or dental dams specifically to protect while having oral sex.
Myth 3: “Once you’ve had an STI, you can’t get it again”
Fact: You can get re-infected with STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis even if you’ve already been treated before. If you’re not using barrier methods or getting tested regularly, it’s easier to get exposed again.
Myth #4: “People in queer relationship don’t need to worry about STIs”
Fact: Anyone who’s sexually active—regardless of gender or sexuality can be exposed. Queer people can sometimes face higher risks due to lack of inclusive sexual health info, so it’s important to stay informed and talk to LGBTQ+ friendly health providers.
Myth #5: “Only gay men get HIV/AIDS”
Fact: HIV doesn’t discriminate. While gay and queer men have historically been more affected, anyone can get exposed to HIV. With the help of modern medication, treatment like PrEP (Pre-exposure prophylaxis) and ART therapy can help prevent HIV or suppress the virus in people living with HIV.
Here’s how to stay ahead of your health:
Knowing the facts is just the first step. Here’s how you can take control of your sexual health.
- Safe Sex Practices: Using barrier methods correctly and consistently during sexual activities can significantly reduce the risk of contracting and transmitting STIs including HIV, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia
- Regular Testing: Routine STI testing is essential, especially for individuals who are sexually active or have multiple sexual partners. Testing allows for early detection and treatment of STIs, which can help prevent the spread of infection and reduce the risk of symptoms worsening.
- PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis): PrEP is a preventative medication for individuals at high risk of HIV infection. PrEP can significantly reduce the risk of contracting HIV when taken as prescribed.
- Treatment of Partners: If diagnosed with an STI, it’s crucial to inform and encourage sexual partners to seek testing and treatment to prevent reinfection and further transmission. Ask your doctor about EPT (Expedited Partner Therapy) which can help both of you get treated quickly.
- Education and Awareness: Promoting sexual health education and awareness initiatives can help compact stigma, increase knowledge about STIs and prevention methods and encourage healthy sexual behaviors.
Having an STI doesn’t define anyone. It doesn’t mean someone is irresponsible or dirty. Everyone is still worthy of love, care, and respect—and people can still live a full, happy, healthy life even with an STI. So this April let’s continue the festivities and get informed.
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