Debunked! 4 Myths About STIs

People tend to fear what they don’t understand, and it goes without saying that there is a lot of fear surrounding sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Naturally, out of this fear comes a plethora of misinformation, wild stories, and potentially damaging myths about STIs. So we’re here to debunk 4 common myths surrounding STIs for men and STIs for women.

Myth 1: Only people who have multiple partners get STIs

For people who are exposed to more partners, if they're not using protection like condoms, for example, their risk of transmitting or acquiring an STI from somebody is higher than someone in a monogamous relationship. If your partner is having casual sex with multiple people, the risk is also heightened. But whether it’s one partner or many, it only takes one exposure to get an STI. 

Myth 2: Once you've had an STI, there's no chance of getting it again

There are some STIs you can get more than once. STIs like herpes and HIV remain in the body for life (but can be managed with medication); while others like chlamydia and gonorrhoea, can be treated, but you may get infected again if you have sexual contact with someone who has them.

Myth 3: You won’t get infected if you use birth control 

Condoms (both male and female) are the only form of contraception that can reduce your risk of getting an STI. However, it’s only abstinence that keeps you 100% safe. Also, HPV and herpes can be passed by intimate touch alone. No matter what type of birth control you choose, be sure to add condoms, too, if you aren’t in a monogamous relationship.

Myth 4: You can't get an STI from oral sex.

Oral sex is not risk-free when it comes to STIs. You can still get infections such as herpes, syphilis, and gonorrhoea from oral sex, even if you don't have any cuts or sores in your mouth. The best way to prevent oral STIs is to use a barrier method such as a condom or a dental dam.

So now that you’re armed with more knowledge about STIs, what should you do next?

Make sure you protect yourself! If you’re sexually active, make sure you get tested regularly.

And if you feel you might have an STI, we at Berry Health are ready to help! Just start a consultation at ourberry.com and our doctors will provide the care you need. It’s also a good idea to let your partner know so they can get treated as well to avoid reinfecting each other.

Remember: Don't have sex again until both of you have completed your full treatment — and don't forget to use a condom.