Let's Destigmatize STD | STI Tests!
Queens. Did you know that the World Health Organization estimates that more than 1 million STIs are acquired every day? EVERY DAY. That’s ridiculous and it’s also preventable. One of the issues is that we are not getting testing, and there is a very easy solution, which is to get tested! One of the reasons that we’re not getting tested is surrounded by the stigma of this issue at large, which is alarming. It is also important to realize that this starts at a young age where teens feel intimidated to talk about sexual health to their doctors and they bring this fear and stigma into their young adult lives.
Here are some of some tips to help you get over the hump and go get your booty tested!
Research. Check out this very detailed information from the World Health Organization and the chart below from Planned Parenthood. When you’re armed with information, data, and helpful prevention tips, the more open you will be to help destigmatize this topic. Cue the do-do-doo-dooo tune from NBC’s famous 90’s * The More You Know * campaign.
TALK ABOUT IT! Find someone you trust, whether it be a good friend, a family member, a mental health professional, or (best yet) your doctor. Just open the door to this conversation and start asking questions, ask how often you should be getting tested, if you feel comfortable, ask how often the other person gets tested and why that often? Tip, we’re not doctors and everyone varies, but the typical starting point is to get testing at least once/year. Talk to your doctor about your sexual activity to find a more personalized recommendation.
Find the best ways of getting tested. If you are truly horrified to go see a doctor, you ca thank your millennial stars for our new the information age! Here is a list of information and products to compare for at-home testing.
So. Go get tested (especially if it’s been a minute), talk to your friends about it, and go enjoy a safe, happy, and healthy sex life in 2020 bbs!