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While conversations around sexual pleasure and sex-care have gained traction, STIs remain shrouded in silence. Discussing a common cold might be easy, but an STI? That's often kept under wraps. The CDC's 2016 report highlighted a concerning rise in STI cases, yet the stigma persists, deterring open discussions.
STIs don't discriminate—by 25, half of us may face an STI, and in the US, 20 million new infections are reported yearly. The lack of dialogue is concerning, given their prevalence. It's time for a shift towards openness and education.
Many rely on a patchwork of high school sex ed and frantic online searches for STI information. To enhance our understanding, we consulted Dr. Michael Krychman, a Board-Certified OBGYN and Sexual Health Counselor, for expert insights on navigating an STI diagnosis.
Ignoring potential STI symptoms is risky. Dr. Krychman emphasizes the necessity of certainty in diagnosis, warning of the long-term health repercussions untreated STIs can carry. Conditions such as HPV-linked cervical cancer and infertility due to undetected gonorrhea or chlamydia underscore the importance of prompt attention.
STIs can be deceptively silent, with many carriers unaware of their status. A study showed 63% of chlamydia cases might be symptom-free, and a staggering 90% of herpes carriers might be in the dark about their infection. Dr. Krychman advises individuals to weigh their risk factors, like multiple partners or previous partners with STIs, and opt for regular screenings to protect oneself and future partners.
Receiving an STI diagnosis is daunting but not the end. Dr. Krychman counsels against panic, reminding us of the commonality of STIs and rejecting the notion they reflect personal hygiene or morality. With treatments available for most STIs and management options for chronic conditions like herpes, sexual life can continue responsibly.
Disclosures about STIs, akin to other elements of a healthy relationship, require honesty with sexual partners. Dr. Krychman suggests that while disclosure is personal, intimate relationships warrant open conversations about STI status. This dialogue encourages testing and safe intimacy practices.
Dr. Krychman encourages those diagnosed to use the experience constructively, fostering sexual health awareness and safer sex practices rather than succumbing to self-blame. This mindset shift can contribute to the larger goal of destigmatizing STIs, empowering more individuals to speak openly, share their status, and seek testing.
STI discussions with doctors, partners, or peers can be tough, but acknowledging their commonality and educating ourselves can dispel myths, reduce stigma, and promote a healthier society.