Jacquelyne Froeber is an award-winning journalist and editor. She’ holds a b.a. in journalism from Michigan State University. She is the former editor-in-chief of Celebrated Living magazine and has editing and writing experience for print and online publications, including Health magazine, Coastal Living magazine and AARP.org.Let’s talk about sex. OK, now that we got your attention, we mean sexually transmitted infections .
Although nearly 9 out of 10 respondents said they regularly see their healthcare provider , nearly half said their HCP doesn’t ask about STI testing and sexual health.“I know I, as a gynecologist, ask my patients if they would like an screening but some primary care providers may not ask the question,” Roberts said.
Eight out of 10 of our respondents felt comfortable talking to their HCP about STIs, but for those who don’t,in avoiding the conversation. But Roberts noted that most HCPs want you to ask questions and speak up about sexual health. “We see a wide variety of patients every day, so you will not be alone when discussing your sexual health,” she said.
If you’re having sex, you’re at risk for STIs. The younger respondents and those with two to five sexual partners were the most concerned about getting an STI.Younger respondents were more likely to know about the increase in STIs compared to the other respondents.About 15% of respondents said you can only spread STIs when you have symptoms. This is not true. Overall there was a lack of knowledge about common STIs and how to prevent STIs.
Overall, the lack of knowledge about common STIs means more education is needed to help people make informed decisions about their health. “Women should talk with their healthcare provider because some STIs do not have symptoms,” Roberts said.