There’s More ‘STI’s’ Than You Think
As a therapist who has passion for sexual health and education, I have come to realize the inherent stigmatization and social implications associated with Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) or Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs). It is time for us to critically examine the way we label and perceive STIs, recognizing that the current categorization is rooted in shame and societal stigmatization of sexual behavior. I want to explore the idea that all diseases, including those classified as STIs, are fundamentally transmitted through similar modes of transmission and not all by sexual contact. By understanding this, we can work towards dismantling the stigma attached to these conditions and fostering a healthier and more inclusive approach to sex and sexual health.
It is important to recognize that sexually transmitted infections are not fundamentally different from other types of infections or diseases. While they may primarily be associated with sexual activity, most of the infections that are currently under the umbrella category of STIs, can be transmitted in many different ways, that extend beyond sexual encounters. For instance, HSV-1 (oral Herpes), can be transmitted through sharing a drink with someone, or kissing someone, or using someone’s chapstick; Hepatitis is often spread when an infected person shares a needle with someone in drug use; the common cold can be spread the same ways the HSV-1 is, including by having sex with someone who’s infected. I argue that nearly every type of infection, virus and disease (not all but most), can technically be spread through sexual contact… logically making all the applicable infections STI’s, not just the select few that have been deemed shameful by our current standard.
So, why do we isolate a specific subset of infections and label them as STIs?
The categorization of certain infections as STIs has deep-rooted connections to societal shame and stigmatization surrounding sex. Throughout history, sex has been viewed through a moral and cultural lens, often leading to the suppression of sexual expression and the labeling of certain behaviors as taboo. The concept of STIs emerged as a way to separate infections associated with sexual activity from those perceived as "ordinary" diseases, further fueling the existing stigma surrounding sex and sexual health. This separation reinforces the notion that contracting what is currently considered an STI carries a higher level of shame and personal failure, unfairly burdening individuals with feelings of guilt and self-blame.
This stigma can discourage individuals from seeking proper healthcare, education, and support. Fear of judgment and social rejection often lead to delayed or inadequate treatment, worsening health outcomes and perpetuating the spread of infections. Moreover, stigmatization perpetuates harmful stereotypes, creating barriers to open conversations about sexual health and hindering the development of healthy relationships.
To address the issue of stigma surrounding STIs, we need to do two things; one, shift our perspectives towards a more inclusive approach to sexual health and two, understand the history of why these certain infections have fallen under the STI umbrella. Recognizing that all diseases can be transmitted through various means, including sexual contact, allows us to reframe our understanding of infections as a shared human experience rather than a source of shame. By de-stigmatizing STIs, we encourage open and honest conversations about sexual health, empowering individuals to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their partners.
Education also plays a vital role in dismantling the stigma associated with STIs. By fostering comprehensive sexual education programs that address both physical and emotional aspects of sexual health, we can empower individuals with knowledge, promote safe practices, and eliminate misconceptions surrounding STIs. Encouraging discussions in schools, communities, and healthcare settings allows for the dissemination of accurate information, reducing the fear and discrimination that arise from a lack of understanding.
The categorization of sexually transmitted infections perpetuates the stigma and shame surrounding sexual health. By recognizing that all diseases can potentially be transmitted through sexual contact, we can challenge the social constructs that isolate and stigmatize individuals facing these conditions. It is crucial that we advocate for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to sexual health—one that embraces open dialogue, comprehensive education, and destigmatization. By breaking down the barriers created by the classification of STIs, we can pave the way for a society that promotes sexual well-being, understanding, and acceptance.
I am very passionate about this topic and love educating people about more holistic and sex positive sex education. I would also like to add that most (stereotypical) STIs have no symptoms for a very, very long time; which is why it is so important to get tested regularly, and follow your STD treatment protocol to the end, especially if you are sexually active with multiple partners.
