Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or infections (STIs) are infections that are passed from one person to another through sexual contact. There are many different STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), syphilis, and HIV. An estimated 20 million new STD infections occur every year in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Should people feel ashamed if they get an STD?
There is often a stigma associated with STDs. Some people may feel ashamed, embarrassed, or judged if they get diagnosed with an STD. However, STDs are extremely common – in fact, most sexually active people will contract HPV at some point in their lives. Having an STD does not mean someone is “dirty” or somehow flawed. STDs can happen to anyone who is sexually active, even with protection.
Rather than contributing to stigma, it’s important to have compassion for those with STDs. The CDC recommends reframing STDs as a normal risk of sexual activity. Most STDs are curable with medication and do not have serious long-term effects if treated early. It’s helpful to view STDs as common medical conditions that require routine screening and treatment, just like any other disease.
Why do people feel ashamed about STDs?
There are several reasons why STDs are stigmatized in society:
- Lack of education – Myths and misinformation make STDs seem like something to be ashamed of.
- Judgmental attitudes – Some people make moral judgments about those with STDs.
- Fear of rejection – People may feel ashamed to tell partners about an STD diagnosis.
- Connection to taboo topics – STDs are associated with sex, which some view as taboo.
- Perceived lack of cleanliness – There is a misconception that only “dirty” people get STDs.
This stigma causes people to feel embarrassed about STD testing, avoid telling partners about infections, and hesitate to seek treatment. As a result, STDs spread more widely. Reducing stigma through education and open conversations is crucial for STD prevention and control.
Does STD stigma affect certain groups more than others?
Unfortunately, STD stigma does not impact all groups equally. Studies show that stigma disproportionately affects the following populations:
- Women – Women tend to experience more STD-related shame and bias due to gender stereotypes about promiscuity. Slut-shaming remains prevalent.
- Adolescents and young adults – STD stigma is especially strong against younger people who may be viewed as foolish or irresponsible.
- Gay and bisexual men – There is a long history of HIV/AIDS stigma in the LGBTQ community.
- Ethnic minorities – STD stigma intersects with racial discrimination and economic disadvantages.
- Sex workers – Many view STDs as evidence of sex workers’ moral impurity or contamination.
Stigma isolates these groups from healthcare and support. Targeted public health efforts are needed to reduce STD stigma in vulnerable populations.
What are the consequences of STD stigma?
STD stigma causes significant harm on many levels:
- Emotional distress like shame, anxiety, low self-esteem, and isolation.
- Reluctance to get tested or treated, leading to worse health outcomes.
- Hesitation to notify partners about STD risk, increasing transmission.
- Avoidance of safe sex practices out of fear of judgment.
- Decreased willingness to disclose STD status or history to healthcare providers.
- Perpetuation of problematic social attitudes toward sexuality and gender roles.
In the worst cases, STD stigma can lead to violence, loss of employment or housing, and suicidal ideation. Reducing stigma is critical to improve both individual and public health.
How can we overcome STD stigma?
Here are some ways to reduce STD stigma on an individual and societal level:
- Educate people from a young age with accurate, sex-positive information about STDs.
- Encourage open and nonjudgmental conversations about sexual health.
- Advocate for comprehensive STD prevention, screening, and treatment policies.
- Provide culturally competent STD resources and services.
- Humanize STDs through storytelling and media representation.
- Speak out against slut-shaming, discrimination, and moralizing language.
- Train healthcare professionals to counsel STD patients with empathy.
- Promote the idea that STDs are preventable, treatable medical conditions.
Fighting STD stigma requires a multipronged public health approach focused on systemic change. With open minds, accurate information, and empathetic attitudes, we can create a society in which no one feels ashamed about STDs.
What should you do if you test positive for an STD?
Getting diagnosed with an STD can be emotionally difficult. Here are some tips for coping if you test positive:
- Remind yourself that STDs are common and curable with proper treatment.
- Talk to your doctor candidly about your diagnosis, treatment options, and any concerns.
- Inform your current and recent partners about your STD so they can also get tested.
- Practice self-care and be kind to yourself while processing the news.
- Surround yourself with supportive friends, family members, or professionals.
- Know that an STD does not define your worth – you deserve respect.
- Join a support community to share experiences and advice for living with an STD.
Your health and life are just as valuable as before your diagnosis. With the right healthcare and support system, you can thrive while managing your condition.
Conclusion
STDs remain heavily stigmatized in society despite how common they are. This stigma breeds shame, isolation, and poor health outcomes among those with STDs. However, STDs are preventable, treatable infections that anyone can acquire. Having an STD does not make someone dirty or immoral. With compassion, open communication, and advances in public health, we can create a safer, more inclusive environment free from STD shame. Getting tested regularly, disclosing STD status to partners, adhering to treatment plans, and advocating against stigma are all ways to enact positive change.