Friday Five: Sexual Wellness Check In: STI’s
Having a sexually transmitted infection (STI) can leave one feeling embarrassed, scared and alone. This week, we’re sharing resources so you can feel empowered with knowledge on this common health concern.
Did you know that you don’t need to even have sex to contract an STI?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are passed on through any form of genital, oral or anal contact with an infected person.
— Office of Women’s Health, Sexually Transmitted Infections
Take 5 minutes to learn about STI care and prevention.
No Shame
Many STI’s are mild and don’t cause major symptoms if any, though they should still be treated immediately so they don’t evolve into sexually transmitted diseases—which can cause more serious symptoms like warts, itchiness, redness and discomfort.
Some believe switching to STIs entirely can help remove stigma and be more accurate in most cases (since some STIs, like human papillomavirus (VPH) may never develop into diseases), while others still consider the distinction to be medically relevant as STIs can progress into diseases and other more concerning complications.
So, you have an STI. Don’t be ashamed; you’re among 26 million people (in the U.S.) who contract one yearly, almost half of which are between the age of 15-24.
Herpes is one of the most common; the HS-1 infection affects 67% of the population.
“The CDC doesn’t include [herpes screening] in STI screening in your regular, all-inclusive test [...probably because] everyone does pretty much have one kind of herpes; the psychological impact is a lot with the stigma, but I also think [adding] it would really encourage conversation and help to normalize it. Like, ‘Oh, it’s just Herpes’ [...], and that’s okay.”
The sex education that most of us received have made us fearful of the consequences of sex and unequipped to take care of our sexual wellness.
2. Support the Body
Most STIs can only be effectively treated with antibiotics, however, there are home remedies that can support the immune system, help rid the body of infection and combat potential symptoms.
Switch On Health recommends the following herbs and plants:
Garlic is antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal and has shown to be effective against a multitude of infections, including gonorrhea.
Tea tree has strong antibacterial and antifungal actions and can be effective against candida and trichomoniasis.
Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, is an antiviral agent. It can be taken internally or applied topically in the form of creams. Studies have shown that Melissa extracts effectively reduce the frequency and severity of genital herpes lesions.
3. Reboot Your System
After you finish your first round of antibiotics (if that’s the case) and you’re cleared of the infection, it’s good practice to reinvigorate your body and rebalance your biome. Antibiotic medicine can’t tell the difference between good and bad bacteria, so they inadvertently destroy the healthy cohabitation in your system along with the infection.
You can consume the following supplements and foods to bring the good bacteria back!
Probiotics
Yogurt
Kefir
Sauerkraut
Cheese
*Note: “Although most types of cheese are fermented, it does not mean that all of them contain probiotics. Look for the words ‘live cultures’ or ‘active cultures.’”
— Healthline, Probiotic Foods that Are Super Healthy
4. Let Your Partners Know
When you get an STI, it’s your responsibility to let all former sexual partners know so they can also get tested. Again, don’t be ashamed and definitely don’t procrastinate having the conversation. It might make the situation worse and lead to the disease spreading further.
Cleveland Clinic Health Essential shares the following advice for making these conversations easier:
Meet them in a comfortable and safe space to have the conversation.
Be open and prepared to answer any questions they might have.
Try to remain calm and not get defensive. It’s normal for people to be confused or panicked when they receive unfortunate news. However, if everyone is upset, you won’t be able to come to terms with the situation.
If your partner needs time or space to process things, be respectful and give them what they need.
If your partner is calm and understanding, take the time to ask about their sexual history. You might discover that they have a past history of STIs. Once you know this, you can take steps forward together to manage your health.
5. Stay Safe!
Having addressed the physical, emotional and relational aspects of facing an STI, it’s time to focus on prevention! Always use protection when having sex, get tested regularly and ask the same of your partners.
