Andrea Thyrring

Many students come into college knowing of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), yet do not know the signs or symptoms if they were to have one. Even worse, many students may find themselves uneducated on the contraction, prevention and care of STDs. Rather than let misinformation lead to myth, I believe it is beneficial for college-aged adults to have truthful information on sexually transmitted diseases and the ways in which they can better protect themselves from contracting one.

Previously known as venereal diseases, or VDs, sexually transmitted diseases or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are, according to the Mayo Clinic website, infections acquired by sexual contact. Any time you have unprotected sex with a partner who is already infected, you put yourself at risk for contracting the disease. The bacteria or viruses that cause STDs are passed from person to person through blood, semen and vaginal fluids.

Simply having sex does not mean you will contract a STD. Your partner must be a carrier of the disease, and you must come in unprotected sexual contact with them in order to contract the disease yourself.

You can, however, contract a sexually transmitted disease from someone who appears to be healthy. In fact, they may not even know they are infected. Often, the symptoms of several sexually transmitted diseases can be mistaken for other conditions, and this may delay the diagnosis and therefore treatment of the disease. This is why it is important to always practice safe sex.

Before you and your partner begin an intimate relationship, both of you should get a STD screening. These tests are available through Planned Parenthood, which works through the College’s Health Services department. These tests are confidential, and will ensure your safety before entering a new relationship. If either you or your partner are infected, follow the protocol given to you by the registered nurse. Only after you are cleared of infection, and at no time before, should you resume any sexual practices with your partner.

Also available at Planned Parenthood are condoms. Condoms are the best way to prevent the contraction or spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Do not expect that your partner will always come prepared. There is no shame in buying condoms, and having one available should you be found in an unplanned sexual encounter is far safer than proceeding with your activity unprotected.

What if you think you might be sick, or may have contracted a STD? Your first step should be to stop all intimate activities. You should then make an appointment with Planned Parenthood to get tested. Results are available in a timely manner, and if you are in fact infected, you can begin your treatment immediately. Any sexual partners you have been with in the last year should be contacted so they can also get tested.

Condoms and STD screenings are not only for single students. If you and your partner have been in a monogamous relationship, you may have established a certain level of trust with each other. This is no reason to throw caution to the wind. Entering an unprotected sexual relationship is always risky, and should be talked about beforehand. Important questions to consider are — Have you or your partner engaged in sexual activity prior to or outside of your relationship? Have you or your partner always used condoms or other forms of protection when engaging in sexual activity? Is there another form of protection you and your partner would feel more comfortable using?

Single and committed college students alike should feel comfortable talking to their partners about any concerns they might have. Using condoms is the best way to prevent STDs. However, an open dialogue and adequate information on sexual practices is key in making the right decisions and to remaining safe in moments of high risk.

If you have any concerns about your sexual health, advocating for yourself and, if necessary, seeking medical help is the most important thing you can do to keep you and your partner healthy.

The Mayo Clinic website, mayoclinic.com, is an excellent source of information on STDs and prevention methods should you want further information.

Andrea Thyrring can be reached at thyrrin2@tcnj.edu.