Join Dr. Ina Park, author of 'Strange Bedfellows' and a dedicated advocate for STI awareness, as she breaks down myths surrounding sexually transmitted infections. She shares invaluable tips on disclosing an STI without sacrificing your sex life and explains how personal grooming can inadvertently raise STI risks. Ina also emphasizes the commonality of HPV, offering insights on its manageable nature, while discussing how to navigate intimacy safely. It's a refreshing conversation aimed at destigmatizing STIs and fostering open dialogues about sexual health.
Addressing the stigma surrounding STIs is essential for fostering open communication, empowering individuals to disclose their status without fear of rejection.
Understanding that HPV is a common infection comparable to the common cold can help reduce stigma and promote proactive vaccination for better sexual health.
Engaging in honest conversations about sexual health before intimacy can create a safer environment, leading to healthier relationships and reduced anxiety about STIs.
Deep dives
Reducing Shame Around STIs
The conversation highlights the importance of addressing the stigma associated with sexually transmitted infections (STIs), particularly herpes. Dr. Ina Park emphasizes that while STIs are often met with fear and shame, understanding them as common experiences can foster healthier discussions. By normalizing these conversations, individuals can feel more empowered to disclose their statuses to partners without fear of rejection. This shift in perspective can ultimately lead to healthier sexual relationships and greater awareness about the shared realities of sexual health.
Understanding HPV and Its Prevalence
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is discussed as the most common STI, often compared to the common cold due to its ubiquitous nature among sexually active individuals. Dr. Park explains that many people will contract HPV at some point in their lives, but the vast majority will clear the infection naturally within a couple of years. This understanding is crucial in reducing the stigma surrounding HPV, as it is commonly linked to serious health issues like cervical cancer. The podcast encourages listeners to get vaccinated against HPV as a proactive measure for sexual health.
The Realities of STI Transmission
The risks of STI transmission through various sexual activities are examined, with particular attention given to the misconceptions surrounding oral sex. While oral sex is often seen as a safer alternative to penetrative sex, the reality is that infections such as syphilis and gonorrhea can still be transmitted through this practice. Listeners are urged to maintain honest communication about their sexual health and to take necessary precautions, regardless of the type of sexual behavior. This awareness can significantly decrease the likelihood of accidental transmission.
Empowering Disclosure About STIs
Dr. Park provides insights on how to effectively disclose STI status to partners, stressing the importance of timing and honesty. Engaging in these discussions before sexual activity begins creates a safer space for both individuals. She reassures that most reactions are not as extreme as one might fear, and many partners are more accepting and understanding than expected. This reinforces the idea that open communication can lead to healthier sexual relationships and reduce feelings of guilt or anxiety around disclosing personal health information.
Prioritizing Kindness in Sexual Relationships
The conversation wraps up with a focus on the significance of kindness in sexual relationships. Dr. Park encourages individuals to choose partners who are considerate and respectful, enhancing the overall experience of intimacy. This approach reduces the likelihood of regret, especially in situations involving STIs, as partners who care about each other tend to navigate these discussions more compassionately. Ultimately, this perspective reinforces the notion that pleasure and emotional connection are essential components of healthy sexual encounters.
Fact: Your STI doesn’t make you ANY less sexy! In today's episode, I’m joined by the author of Strange Bedfellows and medical consultant, Dr. Ina Park who has made it her life's work to reduce the shame and stigma associated with sexually transmitted infections, AKA, STIs. Ina shares everything you need to know if you or someone you’re sleeping with is infected, how to reduce your risk of transmission, and when to disclose your status to a partner.
We also discuss Ina’s #1 tip for STI prevention, what to know about how your personal grooming can impact transmission and a surprising discovery about The Bachelor’s casting process. Finally, we answer your questions about transmission through oral sex, when it’s possible to get intimate without a condom and why having an STI isn’t a death sentence for your relationships. Let’s ditch the shame and bring on the sex.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
How to disclose an STI and still have an amazing sex life.
Why shaving might increase your STI risk (and how to avoid it).
Join the SmartSX Membership: Access exclusive sex coaching, live expert sessions, community building, and tools to enhance your pleasure and relationships with Dr. Emily Morse.