1. “Only transferred when symptoms are present.”
Many people think that sexually transmitted infections will only be transmitted when obvious symptoms appear. However, many infections can be transmitted without showing symptoms. For example, chlamydia or gonorrhea infections can remain in the body for a long time without causing symptoms and can be transferred during this period. Therefore, it is very important for sexually active individuals to get tested regularly.
2. “I’m safe when I’m monogamous.”
Having sexual intercourse with a single partner certainly reduces the risks, but it can be misleading to think that you are completely safe without being aware of your partner’s past sexual encounters. Infections from your partner’s previous relationships may also occur in you. Therefore, it is very important for couples to be open with each other and have regular sexual health check-ups.
3. “Infections are only transferred between certain age groups.”
No, infections can affect all age groups. Everyone, from young people to the elderly, should be aware of sexual health and take the necessary precautions. This false belief, which is especially common among young people, may cause older individuals to ignore that they are also at risk. Regardless of your age, sexual health checks and contraceptive methods are valid for everyone.
4. “It is only transmitted in ‘dangerous’ relationships.”
Infections are not only transmitted through casual or unprotected sexual intercourse. Even in long-term, monogamous relationships, it is important to pay attention to protective measures. If your partner has had sex with someone else or has been infected in the past, you may also be at risk. Condom use and regular testing are essential elements of safe sex.
5. “Oral sex is always safe.”
Unfortunately, oral sex is not as safe as it seems. Oral sex does not completely eliminate the risk of sexually transmitted infections. Infections such as HIV, herpes, and gonorrhea can also be transmitted orally. Because sexual health is not limited to penetrative sex.
6. “Tests are always accurate.”
Yes, it is important to get tested to prevent sexually transmitted infections. However, it may sometimes give false negative results due to factors such as the incubation period of the infection. For the infection to become detectable after a certain period of time, tests must be repeated at regular intervals. Therefore, it is best to get tested regularly rather than just once.
7. “Women are always more at risk.”
Sexually transmitted infections do not discriminate between genders. Both men and women are at risk of contracting these infections, and prevention measures are the same for both genders. Men need to be at least as careful as women about protecting their sexual health.
8. “Sexually transmitted infections are more common among homosexuals.”
Unfortunately, this is a common misconception. Sexually transmitted infections do not discriminate against sexual orientation, just as they do not discriminate between gender. Regardless of gender and orientation, individuals need to protect themselves against such infections.
9. “Individuals can completely get rid of infections with treatment.”
While some infections can be treated with antibiotics, others, such as HIV and herpes, cannot be completely cured but can only be managed. That’s why protection should always be a priority. Untreated infections can lead to lifelong health problems. Therefore, it is very important to pay attention to prevention methods and regular health checks.
