Blog #7 - Views on STDs

Many people seem to think that sexually transmitted diseases (STD) are for people who have multiple partners, that they are dirty or that they are deserved because of their behavior. The truth is, an STD can happen to anyone. It is true that you are more likely to contract an STD if you have multiple partners or partners with whom you know little about, but they can also occur when someone is in a serious relationship with someone who has an incurable STD. Even married people who are victims of infidelity can find themselves with a double insult. Judgement only creates shame. If a person suspects they have an STD, it is very important that they be tested and treated as soon as possible. Many STDs are curable, but can become progressively worse and the damage may be irreversible (ex. syphilis). Any sexually active person outside of a committed relationship should be regularly tested. Unfortunately, false assumptions of STDs and the "type" of people who have them can also lead to false assumption of type that does not. Unless a person is in a committed relationship with someone who they trust, protective measures should always be taken. Single people who are sexually active should educate themselves on the signs of STDs and more importantly, be aware of the diseases that do not have signs or that can remain doormat (ex. HIV). There is no prevention that will protect a person 100%,

so it is vitally important that a person be aware of their current status and take responsibility for their health.