Myth 1: If I don’t have any symptoms, I don’t have an STI.
Fact: STIs can cause many types of symptoms, including itching, rash, and painful urination. However, many STIs are asymptomatic, meaning they show no signs but can still be transmitted. Regularly testing is important to prevent the spread of STIs, especially if you have a new sexual partner, and to avoid complications over time. You should also get tested if you or your partner:
- Are or were sexually active with other people
- Have or had an STI
- Notice a broken condom or don’t use them during intercourse
- Share needles for drugs, tattooing, or piercing
Myth 2: STI testing is painful and inconvenient.
Fact: Many STI tests are neither painful nor too inconvenient. These can include getting a simple blood and urine test, a swab from your throat, cervix, anus, or urethra. Your healthcare provider might also inspect the genital area to check for lumps or pain. Regular testing is important for maintaining sexual health and peace of mind.
Myth 3: You can get STIs from toilet seats.
Fact: This is a common misconception, but rest assured, it’s virtually impossible to get an STI from a toilet seat. STIs are caused by viruses, bacteria, and parasites that don’t survive for long on hard surfaces. Your skin is a protective barrier that prevents organisms from entering the body unless you have an open wound. You’re more likely to pick up germs from other hot zones like faucet handles or towel dispensers that can be removed by proper handwashing.
Myth 4: Birth control can cause infertility.
Fact: Birth control comes in many forms, such as pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), hormonal patches, and more. There are also non-hormonal options like condoms, copper-based IUDs, and diaphragms. Infertility usually refers to a situation where you’re unable to get pregnant after trying for at least 1 year of having sex without using birth control (or 6 months if you’re over 35).
The truth is that birth control, including hormonal options, does not cause infertility. However, hormonal birth control can temporarily affect your menstrual cycle after stopping, making it harder to get pregnant immediately. Some options, like injected hormones and patches, can affect your fertility for several cycles or months after stopping them.
Myth 5: Antibiotics can make birth control less effective.
Fact: Most antibiotics, like the ones that people take for respiratory infections, do not interfere with hormonal birth control. There is one exception, which is the antibiotic known as rifampin. However, many medications can interact with hormonal birth control, so it’s best to consult your pharmacist if you’re unsure.
Myth 6: If I forget to take a birth control pill, I should take it as soon as I remember to.
Fact: Every birth control pill is slightly different, and the appropriate action depends on the specific pill. The timing also matters – at which point in your cycle did you forget your pill? How many pills were missed? For example, in some cases, you might even need to double up on the pill or start a new pack.
If you’re feeling unsure, consult your pharmacist. The same advice applies to other types of hormonal birth control, like patches or vaginal rings.
Myth 7: Peeing after sex can help prevent STIs.
Fact: STIs spread through direct contact of certain body parts with infected bodily fluids, which often happens during sex. Urinating or peeing after sex can help flush out the urethra, but this process doesn’t prevent STIs. Using condoms or other barrier methods is the only way to prevent STIs.
Regular testing, open communication with your healthcare provider, and practicing safe sex are key to maintaining your sexual health. Stay informed and proactive to protect yourself and your partners.
All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2025. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Sexual-Health-Facts-vs-Myths
