For many, sexual health can be a difficult topic to discuss. However, it is an integral part of our overall well-being.
Whether you’re curious, worried or just looking for information, Better2Know is here to help. Our aim is to provide clear, concise and non-judgmental information about sexual health to all who may need it. We believe that knowledge is power and with the right information, anyone can take control of their sexual health.
So, what is sexual health and why is it so important? Let’s dive in.
Take control of your sexual health with Better2Know’s Full Screen, a complete STD panel that checks for the 7 most common infections in the UK.
What is sexual health?
Sexual health is a fairly broad term that encompasses many aspects of our well-being.
It is very common for people to focus on diseases and infections when thinking about sexual health. And while this aspect is very important, sexual health is not just about the absence of disease or dysfunction. It can include a person’s physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality.
Understanding our sexual health requires knowing our bodies, sexual desires and relationships. It also includes how we understand and weigh the risks, responsibilities, outcomes and implications of sexual acts.
It also means receiving and sharing accurate information about sexual health, the ability to express love and intimacy, and access to sexual health services.
Why is sexual health important?
As with other aspects of your health, maintaining your sexual health is vital for a number of reasons.
First, it is an integral part of our overall health and well-being. Just as we take care of our physical and mental health, our sexual health also requires attention and care.
Second, good sexual health contributes to healthier relationships. Open communication about sexual health can strengthen trust and intimacy between partners. It is important to discuss sexual health with your partners, including any concerns or symptoms you may be experiencing.
Finally, maintaining sexual health is the key to a fulfilling and enjoyable sex life. It allows you to make informed decisions, which can help reduce anxiety and stress. Everyone deserves a fulfilling and worry-free sex life, and maintaining good sexual health is the first step towards achieving this.
If you are concerned about your sexual health, make an appointment at a clinic near you.
In Britain, attitudes to sexual health have changed. Since the 2000s, the British have become more open to discussing their sexual health as the stigma around sex and sexuality in the wider culture seems to be receding. Women especially are becoming more sexually active in their older years. In general, the population has become more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior, such as engaging in unsafe sex or having sex with multiple sexual partners; especially among young people.
Common misconceptions about sexual health
There are a lot of misconceptions about sexual health out there. Here are just a few of them:
“Only some people need to worry about sexually transmitted infections.”
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) do not discriminate. They can affect any sexually active person regardless of age, gender, race, social status or sexual orientation.
It is important for everyone who is sexually active to get regular STD tests, practice safe sex, and have open, honest conversations with their partners about sexual health.
“You can tell if someone has an STD.”
Many STDs do not cause symptoms, especially in the early stages. This means that someone can have an STD without knowing it and pass it on to others. The only sure way to know if you have an STD is to get tested.
“Contraceptives always protect against STDs.”
While contraceptives such as condoms can greatly reduce the risk of most STDs, they do not provide 100% protection. Some STDs can be spread through skin-to-skin contact in areas not covered by a condom. Other forms of contraception, such as birth control pills or IUDs, do not protect against STDs at all.
“You can’t get an STD from oral sex.”
While the risk is generally lower than with vaginal or anal sex, it is still possible to contract or transmit some STDs, such as herpes, gonorrhea, and syphilis, through oral sex. Using a condom or dental dam during oral sex can help reduce this risk.
“Once you have an STD, you can’t get it again.”
This is not the case for most STDs. While some infections, like chickenpox, can make you immune after you have them, most STDs don’t work that way. You can get the same STD again if you have sex with someone who is infected.
“STDs are transmitted only through sexual contact.”
While sexual intercourse is a common way of transmitting STDs, it is not the only way.
Some STDs such as HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C can also be transmitted through sharing drug needles. Others, such as herpes and HPV, can be spread through skin-to-skin contact. And many STDs can be passed from mother to baby during childbirth or breastfeeding.
“If you’re in a monogamous relationship, you don’t have to worry about STDs.”
Being in a monogamous relationship can reduce your risk for STDs, but it doesn’t eliminate it. Both partners should be tested before deciding to stop using condoms. And if either partner cheats, the other could be at risk.
“You don’t need to get tested if you don’t have symptoms.”
Many STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause symptoms. Or the symptoms may be so mild that you don’t notice them. Regular STD screening is important, even if you feel well.
“Only adults should worry about sexual health.”
Sexual health is important at all ages. Teenagers and young adults often need information and services to help them make healthy decisions about sex. And older adults are not immune to STDs.
The importance of regular testing
Regular sexual health checkups are a critical aspect of maintaining overall health and wellness. It’s not just for those who have multiple partners or those who think they may have been exposed to an STD. Regular testing is a preventive measure that everyone who is sexually active should consider. It’s about taking control of your health, knowing your condition and preventing the spread of infections.
At Better2Know, we understand that the thought of taking a test can be daunting for many. However, it is important to remember that STDs are common and treatable. Early detection through regular testing allows for more effective treatment and can prevent long-term health complications.
We also believe that regular testing plays a vital role in reducing the stigma associated with STIs. By normalizing regular checkups, we can promote a more open and honest discussion about sexual health. Remember, there is no shame in taking exams.
Get tested for a range of STDs at a sexual health clinic near you.
Dealing with a positive result
Getting a positive STI test result can be a challenging experience, but in most cases, it’s not the end of the world.
The first thing to remember is that many STDs are curable and others can be effectively treated with the right medication and care. Early detection, which comes from regular testing, allows for more effective treatment and can help prevent long-term health complications.
Once you receive a positive result, it is important to seek treatment promptly. When you test with Better2know, we arrange a private consultation with one of our doctors, who can help you access the medicine and care you’ll need for your condition. They may also be able to provide advice on lifestyle changes that could help ease the effects of some infections.
Finally, it is necessary to take care of your mental health. A positive STD result can inspire some difficult feelings. Reaching out to supportive friends, family or professional counselors can help. Remember, having an STD does not define you or your future.
In many ways, getting a positive test result can be a good thing. It allows you to take action and improve your sexual health to prevent bad health consequences in the future.
Prevention and safe sex
If you’re sexually active and don’t want to get an STD, there are steps you can take.
Practicing safe sex is one of the most effective ways to prevent STDs. This includes using barrier methods such as condoms during sexual activity, vaccination against preventable sexually transmitted diseases such as HPV and hepatitis B, and regular STD testing to ensure early detection and treatment .
You may also want to consider forms of physical intimacy other than full intercourse or oral sex. Outercourse, for example, is a tried and true method of staying safe from most STDs while still experiencing physical pleasure and intimacy.
Open communication with your partner about sexual health, including discussing STD testing and using protection, is also a key aspect of safe sex. It’s important to remember that it’s okay to discuss these issues and ask for advice if you’re unsure.
Finally, it’s important to remember that safe sex and STD prevention are ongoing practices, not one-time measures. Regular STD testing, even if you use protection and have no symptoms, is an essential part of this.
Final thoughts
Maintaining your sexual and reproductive health is a vital aspect of our overall well-being. It is about more than just preventing disease. it’s about cultivating healthy relationships, promoting open communication, and empowering ourselves with knowledge.
At Better2Know, we’re committed to giving you the tools, information and services you need to take control of your sexual health. Remember, when it comes to sexual health, it’s always better to know.
We encourage you to take the next step in your sexual health journey by exploring our range of STD tests. Every test is confidential, reliable and designed to give you the peace of mind you deserve.
So why wait? Take control of your sexual health with Better2Know today.
Don’t leave your sexual health to chance. Try Better2Know today.
