photo taken from impactlab.com
Engaging in sexual intercourse posts many risks such as unwanted pregnancies and getting infected with sexually transmitted diseases. There are several myths about sexually transmitted diseases which have spread far and wide so the main key to prevent yourself from getting infected is to be able to know std facts. Moreover, no one really feels comfortable with talking about sexually transmitted diseases which is why sexually transmitted diseases spread and some myths still linger. Hence, it is very important to distinguish std facts from std myths.
Here are some of the common std myths and the std facts that correspond to them:
Myth: Condoms protect you from getting all sexually transmitted diseases.
Fact: Condoms can only lessen the risk of the acquisition of STDs but can not completely protect you from getting infected with other types of STDs. It has been said that there are certain STDs which are known to be spread even when condoms are used. HPV also known as Human Papilloma Virus, is a sexually transmitted disease that is known to cause genital warts or cervical cancer. Due to the fact that it is spread by skin-to-skin contact, a condom may not necessarily be enough to protect you. For this reason, it is really important to have sex only when you are in a committed, monogamous relationship. Even so, you should be careful and always use a condom.
Myth: You will know if the person you have sex with has an STD.
Fact: Sexually transmitted diseases aren’t always easy to identify and some people never even have any symptoms of a sexually transmitted disease. These people will only learn that they have them through blood tests or other tests that are used to diagnose STDs. Moreover, even if there are symptoms, it is likely that they are ones that only the person will know about, such as itching. If someone has had an STD like herpes, it is possible that it may be in remission. This does not mean that it cannot be spread to you, however. You cannot tell just by looking at someone’s genitals whether or not they have an STD.
Myth: STDs cannot be spread through oral sex.
Fact: It is possible to spread pr contract a sexually transmitted disease through oral sex. If oral sex is performed on a partner who has an STD, then the one performing it will be able to acquire it also. Also keep in mind that you can give your partner a STD by performing oral sex as well. Syphilis, herpes and genital warts are just a few examples of STD’s which can be spread through oral sex. If you are planning to engage oral sex with your partner, then might as well use flavored condoms which are designed solely for this purpose.
Myth: HIV cannot be acquired from needles used for tattoos or body piercings.
Fact: Any blood to blood contact makes someone susceptible to the HIV virus. If a tattoo artist does not properly sterilize needles after using them on someone who has HIV, you are at risk for infection. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention advise you (if you get a tattoo) to make sure the tattoo artist: wears gloves, uses a new needle for every client, sterilize instruments autoclave, pours a new ink supply into a new disposable container, and washes hands before starting your tattoo.
These are just few of the many common myths about sexually transmitted diseases. Now you know what the real std facts are, you must always be careful and use condoms when taking part in sexual activities in order to prevent you from spreading or contracting an STD. Before making the decision to have sexual intercourse with your partner, it can be a great idea to go get tested for STDs together. This will help ensure that you both know that the other one is STD-free. Nothing says, “We’re over!” faster than an STD. Protect yourself and stay informed when it comes to STD’s.
Tags: about STD, myths about STD, std facts, STD facts and myths, STD myths
Great, I never knew this, thanks.