RISE Blog | The Stigmatization of STDs in the College Climate

By: Roman Konopa, Peer Educator
March 30th, 2022

What's the first thing that comes to mind when someone mentions the abbreviation “STD”? Maybe you may think of uncleanliness, or that someone is sleeping around; you might feel uncomfortable having that discussion. Although the topic that seems scary, Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Infections don't necessarily mean any of those things. In fact, rarely does having one have anything to do with your hygiene or sex life. I'd like to help debunk many misconceptions and myths regarding STDs, and how you can prevent from contracting them.  

How common are STDs?

In America, an average of 1 in 5 people have an STD/STI. The biggest two that people often overlook are Mononucleosis (also known as Mono), and Herpes. Mono is sometimes referred to as “The Kissing Disease”- which is detrimentally misleading! Yes, you can get Mono from kissing someone who has it, but that's not the only way nor is it the most common. Mono is a virus, so it can be spread by infected saliva touching another person's saliva. Anything that can spread the flu can also spread Mono, including sharing drinks and makeup, and coughing or sneezing. Just like a cold, Mono is highly contagious and the quarantine for active Mono should not be taken lightly. 

Herpes (HSV-1; herpes on the mouth) is also common. Nearly 50% of Americans have the Type I Herpes Simplex Virus. These are also known as your simple, everyday cold sores. Chances are, you may get cold sores or know someone that does- that's just how common the virus is. People can be born with the virus, and often kissing babies gives people the virus from a young age. There's nothing to be ashamed about, as the virus, again, doesn't dictate one's level of hygiene or number of sexual partners. It's also important to note that HSV-2, or genital herpes, is contracted by oral sex performed by someone with HSV-1. HSV-1 can give you HSV-2, and vice versa.

What do I do if I think I have an STD?

If you believe you're experiencing symptoms of an STD, see your doctor. Know that you shouldn't feel ashamed or embarrassed, as your doctor is there to help you! STDs are more common than you think, and they don't make you any less of a person. Even if your symptoms are minor, don't put off getting tested, as it's typically better to be safe than sorry. People often get tested regularly so it's important to normalize knowing your body and what's happening with it! It may be helpful to confide in a peer you trust. Additionally, the RISE office is open every weekday and we have Peer Educators that you can talk to, and it's completely confidential. 

If you test positive for an STD, you can speak with your doctor about the safest way to go about engaging in sexual activity. Each STD is different, so research the specifics: there are medications that may suppress symptoms and transmission of some STDs. And, while self-care is important, do inform your sexual partners as soon as you can. Communication is important, especially as some STDs can cause health issues, and lack of communication can result in the further spread of the viruses.

How can I avoid contracting an STD or giving one to someone?

There are ways to prevent STDs while still having sex. Abstinence is the only method that guarantees the prevention of STDs and pregnancy. RISE offers a multitude of condoms (latex-free, lubricated, dental dams, ribbed, etc.!) outside of our office in Drane Hall, room 247. They're there for your convenience and they're FREE!

Communication plays a big role in the prevention of STDs. Talk with your sexual partners. Many STDs are asymptomatic and dormant for majority of one's life. For example, Mono: If you have had Mono at any point in your life, you are a carrier of that gene (Epstein-Barr Virus) for the rest of your life. A high percentage of people have EBV so there's nothing to be ashamed about, but you may want to let your partner know if you've had Mono even before kissing. Herpes can be spread easily as well. At any point in the healing process of a cold sore, it can be given to another person. 

Most insurance companies will cover STD tests as well. If you are sexually active or you've been sexually active in the past, take a test with your doctor if you can. It will be beneficial to have those answers so that you can take control of your health. It is also recommended that you get the Gardasil vaccine as this may prevent contracting HPV (Human Papilloma Virus) if exposed. 

Why does society shame those with STDs?

There have been stigmas, myths, and rumors spread about Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Infections for as long as they have been around. These stigmas may be damaging to those who are sexually active since not all STDs require one partner to already have the specific virus. Contracting an infection can happen under various circumstances, and sometimes, not even during sex at all. Additionally, a lack of sex education can impact the views and attitudes regarding sex.  

Regardless of any situation or belief, RISE is here to support you in any way that we can. We can help direct you to offices that perform STD testing, give you a more in-depth sexual education, or just lend a helping hand if you want advice. If we can't help you with something, we'll find a department or person that can.

 

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