The Truth About STDs

An article ran in The Republic newspaper this week reporting on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s release of their Annual Report Statistics and Trends for Sexually Transmitted Diseases in the United States Through 2008. The data revealed that the number of people contracting Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) has risen over previous years and credited the rise to better screening.

The report also stated that the biggest rise in reported cases of Chlamydia and Gonorrhea was among girls, ages 15-19, accounting for more than one in four of those cases. STDs are at epidemic proportions and yet many of today’s youth still think “it won’t happen to me.” Why? Clearly one reason is the strong messages the media conveys that sexual activity among teens is normal, even expected, and safe as long as they use protection, while far too often parents, family member and friends remain silent on the issue. The truth is that while a condom can provide risk reduction for many STDs, waiting until one is in a committed, monogamous marriage relationship provides the only risk elimination.

For those who are sexually active, being tested every year and/or before starting a new sexual relationship, whether symptoms are present or not, is crucial for their sexual health. The Bartholomew County Health Department offers testing on a sliding scale with fees based on income and can be reached at 812-379-1555.

While STDs, infertility, cervical cancer and the emotional heartbreak that can come with casual sexual activity may be becoming more and more common, it doesn’t mean they are healthy, normal or best for our students. Early sexual debut and multiple sexual partners are well documented health risks. Today’s youth need to hear the message loud and clear that STDs do NOT have to be a part of their life. At a time when we’re taking major precautions to avoid the flu virus, we must be just as diligent to protect our kids from the emotional, mental, social, ethical and physical consequences that accompany poor sexual choices.

Here’s the bottom line: when we understand the facts about STDs, we can make better health choices. Abstinence has been, is and always will be the healthiest, best choice for teens.