Valentines Day and Sexual Health

Health is Sexy!

Valentine's Day is the perfect holiday for expressing love to a partner, your family, or your besties. Lots of chocolate, booze, words of endearment, and passion are in the air during this time of love. It is hard to not get swept up in the heat of the moment and remember to protect your physical and mental health. Make sure you don't let yourself feel guilty about your relationship status because everyone is on their own journey and the relationships you see all over Instagram - most of them probably won't last.

with that being said...

if you have someone you are planning on being sexually active with, 

make sure you keep the risks in mind... 

especially if you are not 100% sure of their sexual history...

Sexually Transmitted Infections and Diseases

STIs and STDs are defined as infections or diseases caused by organisms that are transmitted through sexual intimacy. STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, genital warts, hepatitis, and HIV. These can sometimes be curable but can always be treated. Prevention of contracting these diseases is the safest and least painful way to go if you have that option.

STIs are extremely common which is why it is important to know what to look out for and how to prevent them from becoming involved in your life.

Did you know The United States has the HIGHEST rate of STIs among all industrialized countries?

By the age of 24, 1/4 of Americans have contracted an STI at some point in their lives.

At this current moment, an estimated 110 million Americans have an STI!

Unfortunately, women are more susceptible than men to contract STIs and have more detrimental consequences because of them. Some infections can cause infertility issues, damage to the brain, painful swelling, soars, itching, bleeding, and other symptoms. In some cases, STIs have no symptoms at all so the person may not even know they have one.

Having an intimate partner is all fun and games until something goes wrong...

Unfortunately, women are usually the only partner in a relationship/partnership who 

takes on the burden and responsibility of family planning and STI prevention.

That includes birth control options, decisions about pregnancy, opinions on abortion, use of contraceptives, and preventative care. 

Make sure you are prioritizing your health and doing what is best for you!!

STIs also carry a certain stigma and are often considered to make someone "dirty" or "deviant". This harsh negativity makes these infections appear worse than they actually are or makes people scared to get treatment. 

Contracting an STI is nothing to be embarrassed about as long as you are upfront with new partners and are actively seeking treatment. 

STIs are caused by three things:

1. Bacteria

2. Viruses

3. Parasites

The good thing is - all of these can be preventable. You can reduce risk by using protective gear like condoms, female condoms, dental dams, and getting your partner and yourself tested prior to doing any sexual activities. 

Being healthy is sexy! Happy Valentines Day and be safe! 💋