2 minutes read2 minutes readSTI diagnoses are increasingly common, with at least 16% of Australians estimated to have an STI at some point in their life – that’s around 4 million people. Even with Australia’s most common STIs on the rise, there still remains a stigma. Why?
Stigma around STIs can have a significant impact on people’s health as it can prevent people from accessing the medical care they need. Stigma is also proven to negatively affect mental health and is associated with social isolation.
What causes stigma around STIs?
Feeling ashamed about a positive STI test is likely to occur because we are taught stigma from a young age. We learn stigma in many ways, such as through family, peers, media, school and biased healthcare. We are taught, often indirectly, that an STI diagnosis is proof of a violation of social norms and values – sex without protection or with multiple or disreputable partners.
However, these lessons are false and are damaging to our health and well-being. Though protective measures should always be taken to prevent STIs, the surrounding stigma is something we must all unlearn.
How can we overcome stigma around STIs?
Changing society’s perception is a long road ahead, but the best place to start is by talking openly about STIs. With diagnoses becoming increasingly common, you will likely find someone who has been through a similar experience.
Sexual health education is also a crucial step. Understanding that nobody is immune to STIs and STIs are more common than people may think is important in re-adjusting perceptions. A positive STI diagnosis does not determine a person’s worth or character.
Speak to Better2Know in confidence
Better2Know is here to facilitate open and honest conversations about sexual health and STIs. Our non-judgemental team of highly trained advisors will be more than happy to discuss your sexual health concerns and answer any questions you may have. We can arrange STI testing at a clinic near you to suit your individual needs. Simply call Better2Know on the number above or send a message using our live web chat.
Sources
[1] NYTIMES.COM: Staring Down the Stigma of Sexually Transmitted Diseases
[2] HEALTH.GOV.AU: Sexual Health
[3] ARTS.UNSW.AU: Stigma Indicators Monitoring Project
[4] THECONVERSATION.COM: Stigma and lack of awareness stop young people testing for sexually transmitted infections
[5] TODAY.COM: STI stigma: How we were taught to be ashamed instead of educated
