As with everything else, sexual health has its fair number of myths and legends. The consequences of not doing your homework on this subject can be detrimental to both your health, and that of your partner. On that note, time to debunk some sexual health junk.
Myth: You can’t get pregnant on your first time having sex. Let’s throw away the protection!
Fact: Wrong. You sure can. Whether it’s your first or your 1000thtime, always use contraceptives.
Myth: All STIs are curable. Let’s get it on.
Fact: Nope! STIs like herpes and genital warts are not curable with a dose of antibiotics. Additionally, these types of STIs can be spread by skin to skin contact with the affected area. Think about how the rest of your sex life will be affected by one bad decision. Always know the sexual health status of a new partner, and if you’re not sure of your own, get tested.
Myth: Condoms don’t expire—the one in my wallet since the ninthgrade will be just fine.
Fact: Think again! Condoms do expire. Always check the back of the package for the expiration date. If the milk went sour, would you drink it? No? Same with condoms. Condoms should also be stored in a cool, dry place away from anything that can damage/distort them. Keeping them in wallets and drawers with pointy objects may not be the best idea.
Myth: As long as I’m on birth control, I won’t get pregnant or get any STIs. How awesome!
Fact: Uhh… No. The pill works effectively against pregnancy if taken every day—at the same time, depending on the pill. However, it does not protect against STIs. If you are in a relationship where the sexual health status of yourself or your partner is unknown, use protection.
Myth: I’m taking this cool new herbal supplement—it obviously has no effect on my birth control pill.
Fact: Womp womp. Certain herbal supplements and antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of birth control. Check with your health-care provider if you are unsure.
Myth: You can only get pregnant when you are ovulating. We are in the clear!
Fact: Stop! Even though ovulation is the most fertile time, you can still get pregnant at any point during the cycle. Sperm can live in the female reproductive tract for up to five days. If the egg is released early or late during a cycle, it could meet up with a sperm and, well… Pregnancy. Protection please!
If you have any sex health questions—embarrassing as they may be—it’s always the best idea to ask your health-care provider. You’ll thank yourself later!
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Filed under Sports and Health on Sunday, February 2nd, 2014 at 8:34 pm.