Collegiettes, in the midst of our finals frenzy marked by absurd amounts of caffeine, let’s all take a moment to acknowledge a critical aspect of our sexual health … because why not relax by talking about condoms? In the spirit of April, which is STD awareness month, I would like to enlighten you on the ins and outs of sexually transmitted diseases, and why you should always use protection!
*Image from favim.com
For starters, we all know the obvious: Engaging in unprotected intercourse could very well lead to:
- Conception of a baby
- Contraction of a disease
At our age, many individuals are mistaken or lacking in their knowledge concerning STDs. So, let’s get our facts straight and talk about sexually transmitted diseases:
*Image from blogspot.com
Fun Facts:
- Not all STDs/STIs are permanent! Bacterial infections such as gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia can be treated and cured with antibiotics.
- It is very unlikely that you will get an STD from a toilet seat. Despite popular belief, the probability of contracting a STD from sitting on a toilet seat is, luckily, extremely low.
- “I’ve had it once, so I won’t get it again.” Unfortunately, there is no such thing as STD immunity; since the chances of contraction are consistent with all sexual encounters, regardless of previous infection and treatment.
- Hot tubs and STDs? Individuals who engage in hot tub related sex are at a high risk for STD contraction. STDs fester in warm environments for many hours, and the warm water stimulates pores, making the skin vulnerable to cuts. Also, swimsuits do not protect your body from infected water.
- Homosexuals and heterosexuals are at the same risk for STDs. Just because there is no procreation involved in homosexual sex, does not mean that there is a lower chance of contracting STDs.
*Image from tumblr.com
Not so Fun Facts:
- STDs can be contracted through oral sex. Herpes, gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia can be transmitted orally (well, this blows…)
- Viral STDs: Friends for life? Viral STDs such as hepatitis B, herpes, HPV/genital warts, and HIV/AIDS are permanent and stick with you for life. However, treatment is available for those affected with viral STDs to help control their symptoms.
- HIV can be contracted through tattoos and piercings. Instruments that are not properly sterilized and disinfected carry a higher risk of transmitting bloodborne infections, such as hepatitis B or C.
- Eye chlamydia? If semen directly contacts your eye, or even if you touch your eye after being in contact with semen, your eye tissue can contract chlamydia or gonorrhea – the same applies to your mouth, throat, and anus.
- No symptoms, no STD? It is possible to have a STD without knowing it. Symptoms may be mild and mimic infections of lesser severity. When in doubt, call your doctor!
“Don’t have sex, because you will get pregnant and die. Don’t have sex in the missionary position. Don’t have sex standing up. Just don’t do it, OK, promise?” – Coach Carr in Mean Girls
*Gif from olivethepeople.com
Just kidding! But please beware of the dangers that come with unprotected sex! In the end, collegiettes, ALWAYS use protection, and remember to maintain your sexual health through constant doctor visits. It’s better safe than sorry!
*Image from healthcareworkersalary.com