The Quiet Pandemic: Why Not Talking About It Makes It Stronger

The reality is that sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are a common public health problem across the globe, and the incidence of these diseases is still on the rise despite concerted prevention efforts. However, it is not just the rise in cases of STDs like gonorrhea, chlamydia herpes, or even HIV that should warrant distress: there exists a widespread silent STD pandemic of symptomless STDs that is often forgotten. Several STDs are asymptomatic, meaning that carriers often do not exhibit any visible signs or symptoms, allowing the exchange of silent STD to spread rapidly and frequently undetected. According to a recent report, over 400 million people worldwide are infected with symptomless sexually transmitted diseases, rendering this invisible STD pandemic an underlying cause of disease.

The lack of symptoms coupled with unawareness allows for silent STDs to be amongst the most common, with the ability to infect without knowledge of the and receive medical assistance as soon as possible. For instance, Chlamydia and Gonorrhea have often been called the “silent killers,” spread orally and genitally, leading to serious health consequences that can go unnoticed until it’s too late. Silent STDs not only carry increased risks but also overwhelm hospital capacities and impair sexual, reproductive, and maternal health across the globe. Bacterial STDs can cause serious health problems if not detected and treated appropriately; for example, infections such as pelvic inflammatory disease or even increased HIV risks during unprotected sexual contact are a particular concern.

Prevention remains the most effective method of shielding yourself from sexually transmitted diseases, whether it’s symptomatic or asymptomatic. Safe sexual practices such as consistent and correct use of condoms during sexual activity, or frequent and consistent testing and following through upon courses of treatment when prescribed by a healthcare professional, continue to be highly recommended for anyone sexually active or those who have just begun to enter into sexual activity.

It is fortunate that preventative measures to protect oneself from sexually transmitted diseases exist. Knowledge is power – remember to continue to be aware of the STDs’ risk and noted symptoms for asymptomatic infections and continuously practice safe sex behaviors to discourage potential risks and vulnerabilities. These precautions offer health benefits and promote overall well-being, wherein people can enjoy fulfilling lives and relationships without the added worry of health concerns related to sexually transmitted diseases.

STEALTHING: The act of intentionally and secretly taking off condom during intercourse.

STDs and STIs

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are a major public health concern in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are approximately 20 million new cases of sexually transmitted infections each year in the United States.

The term ‘STD’ has long been used to refer to infections that are primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. However, as healthcare professionals gain more understanding of these infections, the term ‘STI’ has become increasingly used. The reason is that many people may be infected with these diseases without showing symptoms, leading to the use of the term ‘infections’ in the description.

The Difference between STDs and STIs

There are subtle differences between the two terms STDs and STIs. STDs refer to infections that have become established and, in most cases, show signs and symptoms such as sores, discharge, or pain. These signs are usually present when the disease is in its later stages.

STIs, on the other hand, refers to any microorganisms that can cause disease that are spread from person-to-person during sexual contact, whether or not symptoms appear. The term ‘infections’ is preferred because it describes the state of being infected without necessarily exhibiting overt symptoms.

The STD/STI Crisis in America

Despite advances in medical science, the United States is currently experiencing a significant STD/STI crisis. CDC data reveal that nearly 50% of sexually active adults in the United States have had an STI at some point in their lives. Millions of these infections are discovered and treated every year. Some of the most common types of STIs include gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia, HIV, and herpes. There are several potential reasons for the rise in STI rates in the United States. One critical factor is an increase in risky sexual behavior. Many people who engage in casual sex or non-monogamous relationships are less likely to use condoms or other forms of protection, placing them at an increased risk of contracting STIs.

Another factor could be inadequate and insufficient sex education, particularly among teenagers, which may not be adequately informed about the risks of sexual contact and how to protect themselves against STIs. STDs (or STIs) are a major public health issue in the United States, affecting millions of individuals every year, regardless of overall medical progress. While education, prevention, and testing efforts are underway, it is essential to continue advocating for safe sexual behavior, regular testing and the importance of seeking early treatment for STIs to reduce infection rates and address the crisis.

According to the (CDC) Center for Disease Control, about 1.2 million people in the US are living with HIV but nearly 1 in 5 people are unaware they are infected.

5 Ways to appropriately discuss an STD diagnosis with your partner

Sexually transmitted diseases can be a sensitive topic, and receiving a positive diagnosis can be difficult news to share with a partner. However, it is important to have an open and honest conversation about STDs as it allows both partners to make informed decisions about their health and the future of their relationship.

Here are some tips on how to discuss an STD diagnosis with a partner:

1. Choose the right time and place

It is important to choose a private and comfortable place to discuss the STD diagnosis. Timing is also key – make sure to have the conversation when both partners are calm and undistracted.

2. Use clear and direct language

When discussing an STD diagnosis, it is important to be clear and direct about the diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment options. Avoid using euphemisms or vague language as this can cause confusion and lead to misunderstandings.

3. Express empathy and understanding

It can be difficult to hear that a partner has been diagnosed with an STD. Express empathy and understanding for their feelings and concerns. It is important to let them know that they are not alone and that you are there to support them.

4. Discuss prevention and protection

Take the opportunity to discuss prevention and protection measures such as condom use, regular testing, and practicing safe sex. Encourage both partners to get tested and use protection to prevent the spread of STDs.

5. Talk openly about the future of the relationship

STD diagnosis can have an impact on the future of a relationship. Take some time to discuss the future of the relationship after the diagnosis and be honest about how you feel moving forward.

Discussing an STD diagnosis with a partner can be challenging, but honest and open communication can help partners make informed decisions about their health and relationship. Remember to choose the right time and place, use clear and direct language, be empathetic, discuss prevention and protection, and talk openly about the future of the relationship.