April is Sexually Transmitted Disease/Infection (STD/STI) prevention month, making this a perfect time to discuss a very sensitive subject we are all a part of. It is very disconcerting to hear others imply that sexually transmitted infections are for the” ignorant or poverty stricken.” This head in the sand approach to a disease affecting one in two sexually active people contributes to the problem. STDs cannot be stereotyped to a location, gender, age, race or socioeconomic status. STDs affect celebrities, professional athletes, business executives, politicians, high school / college students, ministers, nurses and yes, even doctors. The rich and famous are not immune to STDs.
The United States is a marvel of advanced medical technology, making it easy to detect most STIs early by either peeing in a cup, drawing a little blood or simply being swabbed. We are probably not marveled for our ability to openly discuss sex and its possible complications-both emotionally as well as physically-with our children, family, or healthcare providers. It is estimated that more than half of all people in the United States will have an STI at some point during their lifetime. This staggering statistic is not only a community health issue; it also has an impact in real dollars and cents to the individual as well as the taxpayers.
Chlamydia is the most common STI, and it’s estimated that one in ten women/girls will test positive for the bacteria. Untreated Chlamydia infections can lead to a more serious problem called Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) which can cause infertility. Guys, Chlamydia is very common in us too so it is important to get tested every year once you become sexually active- even if you do not have symptoms. Luckily, Chlamydia can be cured with antibiotics. On the other hand genital herpes is a lifelong but manageable disease. Studies suggest up to 90% of people with herpes are unaware they have it. With more than 50 million adults in this country alone, and 1.6 million new cases yearly, it is estimated by year 2025 up to 40% of men and half of all women could be infected.
Mom/dad if you do not discuss sex with your teen then who will? There is a great website: www.iwannaknow.org this is a valuable resource for parents, teachers and teens on the many sensitive common questions about sex, sexual health, and sexually transmitted infections. Parents, it’s important to be approachable by your teen. Learn how you can be an Askable Parent –learn how and get informed- at iwannaknow.org. The best part is it’s free. Sexually transmitted infections take two to transmit, be an active participant in delivering a clear message that shows respect, value and love for your children. Be clear that you want to communicate; it’s sometimes embarrassing to discuss sex but acknowledge the discomfort, be open, supportive and explain.
STIs affect people of all backgrounds, income and ages including, increasingly, people over the age of 50. We need to realize and be sensitive to how difficult it may be for old and young alike to openly discuss sex, relationships, and sexual health. It is important to have a healthcare provider whom you feel comfortable enough with discussing your sexual health, and they need to be comfortable enough to discuss, screen and treat if necessary. If your healthcare provider is uncomfortable discussing all aspects of your health -which includes sexual health- it might be time to do a little shopping for a provider who can treat all of you. Make the decision to talk with your healthcare provider about your sexual health. Talk with your teenagers about sex, sexuality, sexual health and the importance of screenings and testing in the absence of abstinence. These conversations may be a little uncomfortable in the short run, but they could save you both a life time of regrets.
Resources:
www.iwannaknow.org
www.youngmenshealthsite.org
www.ashastd.org
www.cdc.gov
Your local Health Department offers free confidential STD / STI screenings and treatments. Be smart- get tested.
Howard Baker, RN BSN
For questions, comments, or suggestions on topics you want to read about please email me at: howard@howardsbaker.com
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