There are many myths about sexual health that people still believe today. Despite a considerable shift in what people believe due to education, many people are still misinformed. Sexual health is broad, and there are many things that people don’t know about, from STIs to pregnancy, contraception, and sexual hygiene. Empowering people about sexual health can help them avoid making uninformed decisions and stay safe. A sexual health clinic is one of the richest sources of information regarding sexual health and treating issues related to this topic. This article will clarify six common myths to help you know the facts and how to maintain our sexual health.
Myth 1. Douching Helps Clean the Vagina
A large number of women douche to clean their vaginas. However, most of them don’t know that douching interrupts the pH level of the vagina, increasing the risk of bacterial infections. A healthy vagina cleans itself naturally. It can maintain good bacteria and fight the harmful ones. Therefore, douching is not a way of cleaning the vagina. The best way is to clean the outer part with clean water and unscented soap.
Myth 2. You Cannot Get an STI from Anal or Oral Sex
This is another popular myth that many people believe. According to them, STI can only be transmitted through penetration through the vagina. However, anyone can get an STI from anal, oral, or vaginal sex. Avoiding oral or anal sex with an infected person and wearing a condom can help reduce the risk of getting an STI.
Myth 3. Infertility is Common in Women More Than Men
When a couple has a problem having kids, the problem is always directed to the woman. According to many people, women face infertility issues more than men. However, infertility affects men at the same rate it affects women. The leading causes of male infertility are:
- The production of abnormal sperms.
- Exposure to environmental factors like radiation.
- Damage due to cancer or cancer treatments.
In women, infertility comes due to ovary issues, cervical abnormalities, early menopause of cancer-related damages.
Myth 4. Urinating After Sexual Intercourse Does Not Prevent Infections
Some people believe that urinating after sex will not prevent infections. The truth is that emptying your bladders after sexual intercourse removes bacteria that might have found their way into the urethra. Therefore, it is recommendable to urinate after sex to reduce the risks of UTIs. It flushes out bacteria that may have traveled up the bladder.
Myth 5. Using Two Condoms Offers Double Protection Against STIs
Many people are misinformed about how a condom works. Wearing two condoms does not offer double protection. In fact, it is risky to wear two condoms during sex. It increases the chances of breakage when the condoms cannot stand the friction.
Myth 6: You Can Not Get Pregnant After Withdrawal
This is another popular myth and is widely practiced by people. The withdrawal method does not prevent pregnancy. It relies on accuracy, but accuracy is always a problem at this moment. The best option to prevent pregnancy is to wear a condom or use contraceptives.
Final Thoughts
Differentiating facts from myths is vital in sexual health since it helps you make informed decisions. If you have concerns or something you are unsure of, consult a doctor for clarification.