STIs Mythbusters
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MythCondoms fail, so I will not use them
FactCondoms are the most effective way to prevent most sexually transmitted infection (STIs). The most common reason for failure of a condom is not using it correctly.
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MythI can't use a condom because I'm too big
FactCondoms can stretch to sizes well above any human measure. There are different sizes and makes of condoms for any preference.
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MythI can't use condoms because I'm allergic to latex
FactLatex-free condoms are available for those who are allergic to latex. Not using condoms greatly increases the risk of catching a sexually transmitted infection (STI).
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MythI will have to pay for my HIV tests and treatments in the clinics
FactAll tests and treatments provided in Umbrella clinics are free.
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MythIf I don't have any symptoms, I am clear of STIs
FactNot everybody with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) shows signs or symptoms of the infection. If left untreated, STIs may result in serious and difficult-to-treat complications.
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MythIf you are a good judge of character you can tell who is infected with STIs
FactSexually transmitted infections (STIs) can affect anyone who has had unprotected sex. No one can use their instinct to decide their risk of an STI. Getting tested and regular condom use are the best ways to protect yourself from STIs.
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MythMen who go to sexual health clinics have to have an “umbrella test” for STIs
FactWe can use urine samples to test for chlamydia and gonorrhoea. If we have to use swabs, they are as small as possible so that apart from momentary nippiness, there will be very little discomfort. You may also be able to take a free STI test at home, using one of our self-sampling kits. STI self-sampling kits
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MythMy partner has had a negative test for everything. I don’t need to worry about STIs
FactJust because your partner is negative you can not assume you are too. Remember, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may not cause any symptoms. You could have an STI from your previous partner(s) without knowing. The only way you can reliably claim you are negative is to be tested yourself. STI tests do not test for all infections. The "standard" test if you do not have any symptoms is for chlamydia, gonorrhoea, HIV and syphilis.
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MythOnce you've had an STI, there's no chance of getting it again
FactYou can get some STIs more than just once. For example, infection with chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis or trichomonas vaginalis does not protect you from catching them again.
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MythOral contraceptive pills protect against STIs
FactOral contraceptive pills protect women against becoming pregnant. They can't protect against STIs. Regular use of condoms is the best way to protect against STIs. To be safe against both pregnancy and STIs, it's best to use condoms and for a woman to use another method of contraception – such as the pill – at the same time.
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MythPeople who go to sexual health clinics are promiscuous and dirty
FactPeople who attend sexual health clinics are sensible and take their health seriously. Being infected with a sexually transmitted infection (STI) is not a sign of promiscuity or dirtiness.
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MythPeople will find out if I have been for an STI test
FactOur clinics are confidential. We use unique codes to label specimens and case notes. We do not inform your GP about your attendance.
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MythThere is no need to worry about STIs. It only takes a course of antibiotics to get clear
FactRecent advances have made treatment of many sexually transmitted infections (STIs) easy and very effective. However, every year, due to late diagnosis, a number of infected patients develop STI complications that are difficult to treat. For example, treatment of early chlamydia is simple but untreated infection can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility, which are very difficult to treat. Also, viral infections, like genital warts and herpes, are more difficult to treat in some people and can keep coming back. It's best to help avoid STIs altogether by using a condom when you have sex.
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MythWe don't need to use condoms because I'm too old to get pregnant
FactIf you're having sex, you're still at risk of sexually transmitted infections. The best way to prevent the spread of STIs is by using a condom every time you have sex. Condoms If you want to be sure you don't already have an STI, get tested. STI testing
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MythYou can only pass herpes on during its outbreaks
FactThe herpes virus can spread through skin-to-skin contact even when the skin looks normal. Use of condoms significantly reduces (but does not completely stop) the spread of herpes. Herpes
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MythYou can't catch STIs through oral sex
FactChlamydia, gonorrhoea, herpes, syphilis and HIV can all spread through oral sex. Types of STI