We can all agree that sex changes things.
Parents, teachers and professionals spend a lot of time warning teens about
pregnancy, a physical consequence of sex. However, one of the least discussed
consequences of sex is sexually transmitted infections or diseases (STIs or
STDs), among other emotional, social, mental and spiritual effects.
Many sexually active people don’t think they
could be at risk for an STI, reasoning that their partner "looks clean" or they
haven’t had that many sexual partners. However, the facts tell us otherwise.
Take a look at some of the recent numbers published by the Centers for Disease
Control (CDC).
- 1 in 2 sexually active people will contract an STI by age 25
- 19 million new STIs occur in the U.S. each year; 50% of these are among people under age 25
- Less than half of adults ages 18 to 44 have ever been tested for an STI, other than Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)
Most STIs are curable, and all STIs are
treatable. However, some STIs if left untreated can have lifelong effects such
as infertility or organ damage. What is even more alarming is that many STIs do
not present symptoms and therefore go undiagnosed.
The CDC notes that America’s young people
bear much of the burden of these infections, including physical suffering,
emotional pain, mental anguish, social embarrassment and spiritual shame. Having sex is not a quick, simple decision;
it could impact young people for the rest of their lives.
Addressing this social issue with awareness
is only the first step in combatting this epidemic. Eliminating the risk is a
vital, second step. We need to encourage the delay of sexual activity until a
person enters into a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship with an
uninfected partner, such as marriage. Need a plan? Keep sex within the
boundaries of marriage. Even the U.S. government agrees as stated on the CDC’s
website: “The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have sex.”
If you are sexually active, get tested. LifeCare
Testing Clinic, located in Columbus, provides testing and treatment of STIs.
Their mission is to compassionately engage and educate our community with the
truth regarding sexual integrity. Call LifeCare Testing Clinic at 812-418-3230
or visit lifecaretestingclinic.com to schedule your appointment.
Everyone has a bright future ahead of you.
Don’t let an STI ruin that.
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