Stigma around STIs: Why does it still exist?

It’s 2019. We have freedom of speech, freedom of movement, and freedom to have consensual sex with whoever we want, whenever we want. So why does society still frown upon a positive STI result? With the rates for many STIs on the rise, Better2Know encourages everyone who may have been at risk to get tested. A positive STI result does not define you.

Body positivity is a phrase often reiterated in the 21^st century. We are told to embrace our flaws, our body and our sexuality. Feeling more attractive and confident can result in more sex, which may increase our chance of catching an STI. However, an STI is not something to be ashamed of.

A positive STI result can stimulate feelings of embarrassment or anger. Whilst we should all take protective precautions seriously and use condoms as much as possible, it’s not always easy to prevent an STI. Your partner may tell you that they have been for an STI test when they haven’t, or maybe they were tested too early and the results weren’t accurate.

Everyone who engages in sexual activities or intercourse is at risk of an STI. There are cases where even non-penetrative sex can spread STIs. Both Herpes and HPV (commonly in the form of genital warts) require only skin-on-skin contact to transmit the infection to another person. Chlamydia and Gonorrhoea, on the other hand, can be contracted in the throat through oral sex.

What if I test positive?

At Better2Know, we understand that it can be difficult finding out you have an STI. Some situations can be particularly upsetting. An unfaithful partner often leads to the breakdown of a relationship, which can be life changing. However, rest assured that getting tested is always the right thing to do. Having an STI test simply means that you are taking control of your sexual health.

Fortunately, not all infections are as life-threatening as in the past. HIV can now be controlled with medication, allowing those who are diagnosed to lead a normal life. However, knowledge about access to medication shouldn’t discourage use of condoms. Of course, it is important to prevent these infections in order to protect your overall health.

It is natural to feel anxious about an STI test, but nobody should be ashamed of their sexual health status. Our dedicated Patient Services Team are completely unjudgmental and deal with sexual health every single day. If you would like to arrange an STI test, you can book an appointment with us online or over the phone. Beat the stigma and get tested, because it’s always Better2Know!

Sources

[1] New York Times: Why Sexually Transmitted Infections Can’t Shake Their Stigma