In an ideal world, we’d all be talking about sexual health problems in the same nonchalant way as we discuss what to have for dinner. But until we reach that stage in evolution, it’s up to us to steer clear of the stigma and myths associated with sexual health.
From not visiting your doctor often to dismissing any signs of sexually transmitted diseases – chances are you’re guilty of making a plethora of sexual health mistakes. This isn’t surprising considering that there’s still a lack of awareness on this subject.
Also, the limited and sometimes misleading sex education lessons in schools and colleges can further perpetuate these issues. Not to mention our society still isn’t open to welcoming people who are vocal about sexual health.
But none of these restrictions are compelling enough to force you to believe in widespread sexual health myths. Instead, you need to take charge of your body and understand what it needs.
In this blog, we’ll discuss some of the leading sexual health mistakes that you need to watch out for. Let’s get started.
1. Not Prioritizing Sexual Health
Would you mind going to an ophthalmologist for an annual eye exam, even if your vision is perfect? Likewise, you would readily visit a cardiologist every few months to check whether your heart is healthy. Then why would you treat your reproductive system any differently?
Here’s the thing – you don’t have to visit a sexual health clinic only after you start experiencing any symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). As long as you’re sexually active, it makes sense to visit your doctor for regular health checkups.
This is essential because many STDs are asymptomatic. While you may not experience any blisters or discharge, you could still be suffering from diseases, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea. Apart from causing long-term damage to your reproductive health, you could also unknowingly transmit the disease to your partner.
Moreover, an experienced gynecologist or sexologist can help you overcome any other sexual problems that might be challenging you. They’ll also advise you on the right protection you should use. Likewise, they can identify serious underlying disorders, including cysts, fibroids, and cancer.
2. Lying About Your Sexual History
One of the biggest factors that dissuade people from visiting sexual health clinics is the fear of being judged. Even if you go for a visit, you might end up lying about your sexual history and partners to your doctor. Needless to say, this can interfere with the diagnosis and treatment of any STDs or other disorders you might have.
It’s important to understand that doctors are trained to evaluate their patients from an objective medical point of view. They’d be more interested in identifying and resolving your issues than judging you for your sexual preferences or habits.
Also, sexual health clinics have patient-friendly privacy policies and are pretty discreet about their patients’ identities. If you’re confused about how these clinics operate and what facilities they provide, you can click here for more insights.
In the rare event that the doctor or staff at a clinic makes you feel vulnerable or uncomfortable, you should look for a different clinic. Giving false or inaccurate information to the clinic is never the right solution.
3. Trusting Google Search
This is one sexual health mistake we’re all guilty of committing. It’s become a natural human tendency to turn to the internet whenever you’re experiencing any physical discomfort. You run a quick Google search for your symptoms and try to understand what’s wrong.
The stigma associated with sexual health makes it even more tempting for people to self-diagnose their symptoms with the internet’s help. The biggest problem with this approach is that the online world hosts a plethora of wrong and misleading information about STDs and other sexual health problems.
Also, you’ll come across some of the worst-case scenarios associated with your symptoms, sending you down a spiral of anxiety and depression. It’s always wiser to discuss your problems with a certified medical practitioner. They can run suitable tests to diagnose and treat your disorder.
4. Assuming STDs are Curable
Drug-resistant STDs are becoming more common than ever. While treatment can help manage the symptoms and control transmission, these diseases can’t be cured with medication.
So, if you’re sexually active, it makes sense to use the right protective measures to minimize the chances of infection. This is particularly crucial if you’re starting a new relationship or you/your partner have multiple sexual partners.
5. Ignoring Your Symptoms
Lastly, you should never ignore any signs of STDs and other reproductive health disorders. Rashes, bleeding, abnormal discharge, pain during penetration, vaginal dryness – these are all indicators of an underlying ailment. The sooner you visit your doctor, the better your chances of recovery.
Are comfortable with the idea of visiting a doctor for a thorough sexual health checkup? Share your views in the comments section below.
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