The Truth About STIs: Busting 7 Common Myths Once and for All

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are more prevalent than many people realize, yet there’s still a great deal of confusion surrounding them. Misunderstandings can lead to unnecessary fear, shame, and even risky behaviors. It’s important to separate fact from fiction in order to make informed, healthy decisions.

By clearing up some of the most common myths about STIs, you can take control of your sexual health and ensure you're making choices that protect you and your partners.

1. Myth: You Can Only Get an STI from Having Unprotected Sex

• Fact: STIs can be transmitted through various forms of sexual contact, not just vaginal intercourse.

• Oral and anal sex, as well as intimate skin-to-skin contact, can also spread infections like herpes, HPV, and syphilis.

• Using protection (condoms or dental dams) can reduce the risk but doesn’t eliminate it entirely.

2. Myth: You Can Tell if Someone Has an STI by Looking at Them

• Fact: Many STIs have no visible symptoms, which is why people can unknowingly pass them on.

• Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HPV often don’t show symptoms, and someone can have an STI and appear perfectly healthy.

• Regular testing is the only way to know for sure.

3. Myth: If You’ve Had One STI, You Can’t Get Another

• Fact: Having one STI does not provide immunity from getting others.

• If you’ve been treated for an STI, it’s still possible to contract another, especially if you’re sexually active with multiple partners or don’t consistently use protection.

4. Myth: Only Women Need to Get Tested for STIs

• Fact: Everyone who is sexually active should get tested for STIs, regardless of gender.

• Men can also carry and transmit infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV, and may not experience symptoms.

• Both partners should get tested before starting a sexual relationship, especially if they’re not using condoms.

5. Myth: STIs Are Only a Problem for People with Multiple Partners

• Fact: Anyone who is sexually active can get an STI, even if you have only one partner.

• STIs don’t discriminate based on how many sexual partners you have; they’re spread through sexual contact, regardless of the number of partners involved.

• Consistent protection and regular testing are key to reducing risk.

6. Myth: STIs Aren’t That Serious—You Can Just Treat Them Later

• Fact: Untreated STIs can lead to serious health problems, including infertility, chronic pain, and increased vulnerability to other infections like HIV.

• For example, untreated chlamydia or gonorrhea can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, causing long-term reproductive issues.

• Early detection and treatment are crucial for preventing complications.

7. Myth: If You Feel Fine, You Don’t Need to Get Tested

• Fact: Many STIs can be asymptomatic, meaning you might not feel sick but still be carrying and spreading the infection.

• For example, HPV and HIV can have no symptoms for years, but can still cause long-term health problems.

• It’s recommended to get tested regularly if you’re sexually active, even if you feel fine.

Your Health, Your Responsibility — Stay Informed, Stay Protected

The best way to protect yourself and your partners is by staying informed, getting regular screenings, and practicing safe sex. By dispelling these myths and arming yourself with the facts, you can reduce your risk and maintain better sexual health.

Regular testing is a simple, proactive step to ensure your health and well-being. Don’t let myths stand in the way of taking care of your sexual health—stay informed and stay safe.

FAQs: STI Testing and Prevention

1. How often should I get tested for STIs?

   - It’s recommended to get tested at least once a year if you’re sexually active. You may need more frequent testing depending on your lifestyle and sexual activity.

2. Are STIs always preventable?

   - While using protection and getting tested regularly can significantly reduce the risk, no method is 100% effective. The best approach is to be proactive and aware.

3. Is STI testing confidential?

   - Yes. STI testing is confidential, and your privacy is protected. At Cline Medical Group, we ensure that your health and personal information are kept secure.

4. What should I do if I think I have an STI?

   - If you think you might have an STI, it’s important to get tested as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing complications and protecting your health.

5. Can STIs be cured?

   - Some STIs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, are treatable with antibiotics. Others, like herpes and HIV, are manageable but not curable.

If you’re ready to get tested or have any questions, contact Dr. Cline and the team at Cline Medical Group at (606) 637-2334. Let’s work together to keep you informed and healthy!