In the digital age, where one click is enough to make a “match” and connect with someone, intimacy begins to occur in the digital environment. Between emojis and suggestive messages, there is a topic that is usually left out of the conversation: sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Talking about them should not be taboo, but rather part of a shared responsibility to take care of both their own health and that of their partners. Breaking the silence and normalizing a conversation about STI testing is essential to enjoying full and safe sexuality.
STI testing, a checkup that makes a difference
STIs are more common than you usually think. Every day, more than a million people contract one, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Many of these infections go unnoticed, since they do not present visible symptoms. “Infections such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can be completely asymptomatic, especially in women, which increases the risk of serious complications if they are not diagnosed in time,” explains Dr. Irene Fuertes, dermatologist at Hospital Clínic Barcelona.
We are facing a pandemic of invisible infections.
Dr. José Luis Blanco, doctor in the Infectious Diseases Service of the same hospital, speaks of a “pandemic of invisible infections.” “Not seeing symptoms does not mean that there is no infection, and that is the reason why many STIs end up becoming chronic and causing serious problems,” he points out. This reinforces the importance of getting tested regularly, especially when starting a relationship. “Early detection is crucial to avoid complications such as infertility or chronic diseases,” adds Blanco.
Knowing the state of sexual health is a personal responsibility and towards couples. Getting tested regularly should be a routine checkup. However, the responsibility does not end there: if the result is positive, the next step is to inform sexual partners. “This is not an optional act, but rather an ethical obligation that protects the people with whom we have shared intimacy. Notifying them not only gives them the opportunity to take care of their own health, but also stops chain transmission,” emphasizes Dr. Fuertes. Transparency not only prevents infections, but also reinforces trust and fosters healthier and safer relationships.
Stigma, a barrier to detecting STIs
The stigma surrounding STIs – the mistaken belief that they are the result of irresponsible behavior – is one of the biggest obstacles to their prevention and treatment. This prejudice encourages silence and delays seeking help. The reality is that any sexually active person can contract an STI. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), some, such as human papillomavirus (HPV), affect more than 40% of adults in the United States and are usually asymptomatic. STIs do not distinguish gender, sexual orientation or age. Therefore, education and access to information are essential to reduce its impact.
Understanding that a sexually transmitted infection is not the end of the world, but rather a disease that requires treatment and care changes our perspective.
Faced with this reality, prevention becomes essential. Using condoms, limiting the number of sexual partners, knowing the health history of the partner and avoiding drug use during sexual activity are practices that considerably reduce the risk of contagion. In addition, there are vaccines, such as HPV and hepatitis B, key tools to protect yourself and stop the transmission of STIs.
Prevention is not the only component of a fulfilling sexual life. Enjoying a healthy sexual life not only involves pleasure, but also taking responsibility. Getting tested for STIs, being honest with partners, and taking preventive measures are pillars of a fulfilling sex life. These actions empower, allow you to take care of yourself and others, and help dismantle prejudices about these infections. “Understanding that a sexually transmitted infection is not the end of the world, but rather a disease that requires treatment and care changes our perspective. Letting go of fear and assuming our responsibility is the first step towards a healthy sexuality without taboos,” concludes Dr. Fuertes.
Know the diseases
Its symptoms and treatments
1
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Prevalence: One of the most common STIs globally.
Symptoms: Genital warts; often asymptomatic.
Risks: Some types can cause cancer (cervix, anal, penis).
Prevention: Vaccination and preventive screenings (cytologies).
Treatment: Cryotherapy or topical treatments to remove warts. The infection may persist.
2
Genital and oral herpes
Symptoms: Painful ulcers in the genitals or mouth, recurrent outbreaks. Often without visible symptoms.
Risks: Frequent recurrence of symptoms.
Treatment: Antivirals, such as acyclovir, to reduce outbreaks and transmission.
Expert comment: “It is important to start treatment from the first symptoms to minimize pain and discomfort.” – Doctor Irene Fuertes.
3
Gonorrhea and chlamydia
Cause: Common bacterial infections.
Symptoms: Abnormal secretions and pain when urinating. They can be asymptomatic, especially in women.
Risks: Without treatment, they can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility.
Treatment: Antibiotics, although there is emerging resistance.
Expert commentary: “The emergence of antibiotic resistance is complicating treatment, so early detection and appropriate treatment are essential.” – Doctor José Luis Blanco.
4
Syphilis
Stages: It develops in several phases; initial painless ulcer that disappears on its own.
Risks: Without treatment, it progresses and causes damage to the heart and brain.
Treatment: Penicillin, very effective in early stages.
Expert commentary: “The key is early detection; Syphilis is an infection that progresses silently and is potentially devastating if it is not controlled in time.”- Doctor José Luis Blanco.
5
HIV/AIDS
Symptoms: Initially similar to the flu, it can then weaken the immune system and progress to AIDS.
Treatment: Antiretrovirals to keep the virus under control and achieve an undetectable viral load, improving quality of life and reducing transmission.
6
Hepatitis B and C
Symptoms: Often asymptomatic; They can cause cirrhosis and liver cancer.
Prevention: Vaccine available for hepatitis B, not hepatitis C.
Risks: Increased transmission of hepatitis C through sexual contact.
Treatment: Hepatitis C is curable, but requires early detection.
Expert commentary: “It is essential that at-risk groups undergo regular testing, as hepatitis C can remain asymptomatic for years before causing irreversible liver damage.” – Doctor José Luis Blanco.
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