Teens are often not well-informed about STDs (sexually transmitted diseases). So much information gets passed around and they often don’t ask questions. Many sexual education classes do not teach teens enough either, they just cover the basics and that’s it. Because of this many teens think that the five common myths about STDs are actually true when they aren’t. This article will focus on busting the five common myths that many teens believe about STDs.
Five Common Myths About STDs: Only “Dirty” People Get STDs
Anyone can get an STD. Poor people get them. Rich people get them. Those who are having sex for the first time can get them. Geeks can get them. Popular kids can get them. The only people who are not at risk for getting STDs are those who are not having sex. Any type of sexual contact puts you at risk for contracting an STD.
Five Common Myths About STDs: STDs Are Visible to the Naked Eye
This is not true. Most medical professionals can’t even tell if a person has an STD by simply looking at them. Diagnostic tests like blood work need to be performed to get a definitive answer. STDs do not always cause symptoms so it is also possible that the person with an STD doesn’t even know they have it. It is also possible to spread STDs without having symptoms or experiencing an outbreak. If you think you have an STD, even if no symptoms are present, get to a doctor because some STDs can lead to long-term problems such as pelvic inflammatory disease, severe neurological deficits and infertility.
Five Common Myths About STDs: Having Oral or Anal Sex Will Not Spread STDs
This is a huge myth that so many teens believe to be true. The bacteria and viruses that cause STDs can get into the body through small tears or cuts in the anus or mouth or genitals. Some STDs can be spread through skin-to-skin contact if there is a sore or small infected area. Genital warts and herpes can be spread this way.
Five Common Myths About STDs: STDs Can Only Occur Once
Not at all. Just because an STD has been treated it does not mean you can’t get it again. There are also certain STDs that you will have for life such as HIV and herpes. Other STDs, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, can be treated, but treatment doesn’t protect you from getting them again in the future if you are not careful.
Five Common Myths About STDs: If You Don’t Have STDs Your Partner Must Not Have Them
This is another common myth that needs to be busted. Just because you don’t have an STD it doesn’t mean that your partner doesn’t. If you and your partner are sexually active, both of you should be checked regularly for STDs, especially if either of you have had other partners.
Practicing abstinence is the only sure way of not getting STDs. If you are having sex, be sure to always use a condom, even with oral or anal sex, and get tested regularly. Also, remember that other birth control methods, such as pills, do not protect you from STDs.
Resources
http://kidshealth.org/teen/sexual_health/stds/std_myths.html#
