Jenna Lubsen
More than 1 million sexually transmitted infections are contracted everyday, world wide. (WHO, 2021). So why don’t we talk about it more? Why is everyone so ashamed to admit that they have had an STI?
Sexually transmitted infections are exceedingly common but we don’t talk about it, ironically enough this can increase the number of reported cases. If something is not discussed then there is no awareness, no one is aware that there is something to think about. If an individual is too afraid to disclose that they have contracted an STI, any number of people could be at risk due to exposure through sexual relations. Stigma has so strongly taken control of us, as a community, that is creating a greater chance of ‘catching’ what is the source of so much shame. Shame acting as the fuel to this vicious cycle that can have adverse physical and mental health affects.
When we talk about stigma in regards to STI's, it can manifest in a variety of different ways. The slang terms used to refer to infections are overtly negative in nature and are used to make fun of those who contract them. Examples include 'the crotch cold' and 'the clap' when referring to Chlamydia. STI's are commonly used as a means of slut shaming, either deeming someone as a 'slut' or 'whore' because they have tested positive for an STI, or assuming that they are ridden with infections and diseases.
If we think back to the education we received in elementary school and into high school, there was no discussion surrounding prevalence. The aim of sexually education in the public school system was, and still is, to scare youth into either not engaging in sexual relations or to be too ashamed to talk about it. This altogether makes safe sex in high school aged adolescents wishful thinking. As the media and various forms of social media have helped make sex talk more positive for adults, the most vulnerable group in society is being left in the dark. We know that stigma is developed over time and often something that is taught, it is evident that in regards to the contraction of STI's is originating in the school system.
It is even more confusing as to why so much fear is associated with STI's when the most common ones are completely treatable and will be no more detrimental than a runny nose. Chlamydia and Gonorrhea are two of the most commonly contracted sexual transmitted infections and if treated quickly require simple antibiotics and result in no serious consequences. It should also be acknowledged that sexually transmitted infections were previously known as sexually transmitted diseases, or STD's. Disease was changed to infection because they do not fit the criteria of a disease, they can only be classified as infections. The terms disease also carries more weight and generates more fear and stigma. However this does not mean that we should not be cautious and take steps of prevents STI's, if not treated quickly Chlamydia can cause kidney and other forms of reproductive damage. This is another scenario when increased stigma can cause immense damage. If someone is to embarrassed to get medical help, irreversible damage can be caused.
If we learn anything from this short discussion about sexually transmitted infections, it should be that the origin of stigma comes from a source that should offer education and support. That the cycle of stigma is causing more damage socially, emotionally and physically. And that no one should be ashamed to have contracted an STI. They are exceedingly common and are nothing to be embarrassed about.
If you are someone you know suspects they might have an STI, please do not hesitate to visit a walk in clinic or emergency room to get tested. Regular STI testing is always a good idea once you become sexually active.
References
World Health Organization. (2021 November 22). Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s). Fact
Resources
Provided are resources that are helpful for getting tested and treated for sexually transmitted infections, as well as resources for emotional support if encountering stigma and harassment connected to a sexually transmitted infection.
KFL&A Resources
KFL&A Sexual Health Information Line
Phone: 613-549-1232, ext. 1275
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