Dr Olga Sambolska*

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), also known as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), are a group of infections caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites that are transmitted through sexual contact.

Myths about STDs can delay diagnosis, increase complications and create unnecessary fear or stigma. Understanding the facts helps people protect their health and seek care at the right time.

Myth 1: no symptoms - no infection

Truth: many STDs cause no symptoms, especially in women.

Chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV and even HIV may remain silent for months or years. A person can feel completely well and still carry an infection that can be passed to others or cause long-term health problems. Testing is the only reliable way to know.

Myth 2: only people with many sexual partners get STDs

Truth: anyone who is sexually active can get an STD.

Risk depends on exposure, not on lifestyle, age or number of partners. A single unprotected sexual encounter is enough to transmit an infection. STDs affect people of all backgrounds, including those in long-term relationships.

Myth 3: condoms protect against STDs

Truth: condoms significantly reduce risk, but they do not offer 100 per cent protection.

They are very effective against infections transmitted through fluids, such as HIV, chlamydia and gonorrhea. However, infections spread through skin-to-skin contact, such as HPV or herpes, can still be transmitted through uncovered areas. Despite this, condoms remain one of the best prevention methods.

Myth 4: oral sex is safe and prevents STDs

Truth: STDs can be transmitted through oral sex.

Herpes, HPV, gonorrhea, syphilis and chlamydia can infect the mouth and throat. Because symptoms are often mild or absent, oral transmission is frequently overlooked.

Myth 5: STDs are always visible, and I can tell if my partner has one

Truth: many STDs are asymptomatic or have very mild symptoms in the early stages.

There are often no visible signs. Relying on appearance or assumptions is unsafe. Open communication and testing are essential.

Myth 6: HPV always shows symptoms such as genital warts

Truth: most HPV infections are silent.

Many people clear the virus naturally without knowing they had it. However, certain high-risk HPV types can cause cervical, anal, or throat cancer without warning symptoms, which is why regular Pap smears and HPV testing are so important.

Myth 7: STDs always cause infertility

Truth: not all STDs affect fertility, but some untreated infections can lead to infertility.

Chlamydia and gonorrhea may lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can damage the fallopian tubes and cause infertility or ectopic pregnancy. Early detection and treatment greatly reduce this risk.

Myth 8: All STDs can be treated with antibiotics

Truth: bacterial STDs are curable with specific antibiotics, while viral infections are not.

• Curable with antibiotics: chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, trichomoniasis

• Require ongoing management: HIV, herpes, HPV

Even when an infection cannot be cured, treatment can control symptoms (such as HIV and HSV), reduce transmission, and protect long-term health.

Myth 9: it is enough to test for STDs once

Truth: testing depends on life stage and risk.

You may need repeat testing if you have a new partner, are pregnant, or have ongoing risk. Many health authorities recommend routine screening for sexually active women under 25 and during pregnancy, even without symptoms.

Myth 10: STDs are related to poor hygiene

Truth: STDs have nothing to do with cleanliness.

They are caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites transmitted through sexual contact. Excessive washing or vaginal douching can actually increase the risk of infections by disrupting natural protective bacteria.

Key takeaways

STDs are common and often silent, but they are treatable or manageable when detected early. Regular testing, prevention and open communication with a doctor are essential to maintaining good sexual health.

When to see a doctor

You should consider seeing a doctor if you experience symptoms such as unusual vaginal discharge, odor, itching or pain, bleeding after sex, pelvic pain or fever. It is also recommended to get tested if you have a new sexual partner or are planning a pregnancy. — Family Medical Practice

*Dr Olga Sambolska graduated from Lviv National Medical University in 1996 and began her medical career at the Volyn Regional Maternity Hospital in Ukraine. Since 1998, she has been a registered obstetrics and gynaecology doctor, providing healthcare to women in relation to pregnancy, birth control, menopausal issues, contraception, menstrual cycle disorders and sexually transmitted diseases. She is fluent in English, Ukrainian, Polish, and Russian.

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