We all remember that day in 6th grade health class when you knew your gym teacher was not going to be getting into the usual food pyramid shebang. Oh yes, it was time to discuss safe sex. Of course, back in 2013, a lot of things were different. At least at my small North Carolina school, the conversation on the potential repercussions of unprotected sex were limited, because who would be engaging in such an activity? We weren’t married so… no point!
Whether the topic of safe sex is socially acceptable as a conversation piece in your family or school setting, its importance cannot be denied. In this blog, I will offer an educational look into just one commonly transmitted sexually transmitted infections (STI), chlamydia. This STI is bacterial, and therefore transmitted by the passing of bacteria. The bacteria most commonly spreads through sexual activity, whether it be vaginal, anal, or oral sexual contact between two individuals. So ladies, if he said he got it at the gym from a “dirty towel”, stay informed and check him!
This infection stands out to me for a few reasons. The first, that individuals are capable of carrying these infections without actually knowing. Think about the damage capable of spreading from this asymptomatic infection. If you do show symptoms, these are most likely going to be forms of painful urination, vaginal discharge, painful sex, and bleeding between periods for women.
Another reason that makes this STI stand out is its treatment. Although dangerous if left without treatment, this STI can be solved by an antibiotic regimen prescribed by your doctor. All the more reason to go and check it out with a doctor if you’re feeling unsteady about a sexual partner or feeling! Of course, like any antibiotic, the possibility of resistance to this infection is present, and therefore requires doctors and patients to be very careful and intentional with how antibiotics are used to contain the prevalence and incidence of this infection.
Kate's MCRO Journey 