The Lack of Information Among Sexually Active Women- Facts and Myths

By: Dr. Murugan Nandagopal, LifeCell International Pvt. Ltd

Sexual health is a vital component of overall well-being, but unfortunately, many sexually active women today lack the necessary information to protect themselves from potential health risks. This is especially true for young adolescent girls who are increasingly exposed to sexual activity through increased access to mobile devices, the internet, and social media, but may not fully understand the potential risks and consequences involved.

There are several reasons why women may lack information about their sexual health. One factor is inadequate sex education. Many schools offer limited or no sexual education, leaving young women to rely on potentially unreliable sources of information such as friends or the internet. Furthermore, cultural taboos around discussing sex may further discourage women from seeking information or advice from their healthcare providers.

Exacerbating the problem is also a lack of access to accurate and reliable information and the plethora of myths surrounding sex, that continue to perpetuate falsehoods and misunderstandings of scientific information about sexual activity.

Here are some of the common myths that are perpetuated around sex.

Myth 1: HPV only affects women

Fact: HPV (human papillomavirus) can affect both men and women. It is the most common sexually transmitted infection and can lead to serious health issues, including cervical cancer in women and throat cancer in men.

Myth 2: If a woman does not have an orgasm, she cannot become pregnant

Fact: Orgasms do not play a role in the fertilisation process. Pregnancy can occur whether or not a woman experiences an orgasm during sexual activity.

Myth 3: The withdrawal method (pulling out) is a reliable form of contraception

Fact: The withdrawal method is not a reliable form of contraception as pre-ejaculate can contain sperm, and it can be difficult to withdraw in time to prevent pregnancy. Condoms and other forms of contraception are more effective in preventing unwanted pregnancies. Along with this, it will also reduce the risk of STIs.

In order to not fall prey to such myths, and to protect themselves, sexually active women need to be armed with the correct information. To begin with, women should take care of their reproductive health by getting regular gynaecological exams to screen for any abnormalities or conditions that could impact them. This includes pap smears or HPV tests to screen for cervical cancer and breast exams to screen for breast cancer. Women should also seek to have a thorough understanding of their menstrual cycle. This can be done with the help of apps that help track ovulation and distinguish between various phases of the cycle, or by maintaining a simple physical calendar. This step can help plan effectively for pregnancy or contraception.

Similarly, getting regular STI screenings is also crucial, even if you feel healthy and have no symptoms. Many STIs can be asymptomatic, meaning that you may be infected but not show any symptoms. Regular screenings can help detect any infections early and allow for prompt treatment. For instance, human papillomavirus (HPV) continues to be one of the most common sexually transmitted viruses among sexually active people. And while two-thirds of HPV infections are asymptomatic, there are over 40 HPV Genotypes that may cause cancer or Genital warts. This is why regular cervical screening via HPV test at-home easy-to-use self-test kits, or other advanced testing methods is paramount to prioritise prevention and help in the timely detection of HPV infection before they develop into cancer.

Furthermore, it is important for women to be aware of their own sexual history and be honest about it with their partners and doctors. This includes any history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other relevant information that could impact their sexual health.

Similarly, practising safe sex by using condoms or other forms of barrier protection can also reduce your risk of contracting STIs and unintended pregnancy. It is important to communicate with your sexual partner(s) about any concerns or questions you may have about sexual health.

Using effective birth control is another important aspect of sexual health. If you are not trying to conceive, using effective birth control can help prevent unintended pregnancy. There are many different options available, including hormonal methods, barrier methods, and long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs).

Finally, women should seek medical attention if they experience any unusual symptoms, such as pain or discomfort during sex, unusual discharge, or abnormal bleeding. These symptoms could be signs of an underlying health condition that needs to be addressed.

In conclusion, it is essential for sexually active women to be informed about how to protect their sexual health. This involves knowing their sexual history, getting regular STI screenings, practicing effective birth control and safe sex, reproductive health maintenance, and seeking medical attention if necessary. Women should also feel confident in discussing any concerns or questions with their healthcare providers, even if cultural taboos make it challenging. Taking charge of their sexual health allows women to live healthier and more fulfilling lives.

Also Read: All You Need To Know About Male Infertility