Addressing the Pain in Pleasure

Sexually transmitted Infections are on the rise in colleges everywhere, including Plymouth State University. About 19 million new sexually transmitted infections occur each year, and nearly half affect those between the ages of 15 and 24. In terms of the college population, one out of every four students has an STI. Think of your nine a.m. class of 20 people--five of those people have a sexually transmitted infection. On a typical day most people do not think of that statistic and even so, often times, students tend not to believe it.
Many people believe that they can tell if someone has an STI just by looking at them, but this skill is nonexistent. It doesn't matter how someone dresses, smells, or behaves. No one can tell if someone else has a sexually transmitted infection unless they are certified health care provider. The point is, anyone could be carrying an infection. Unfortunately, not everyone takes the time to go get tested. As it is, 80 percent of people who have contracted an STI experience no noticeable symptoms. Those who are sexually active should beware of these silent killers.
Every college campus has it's own "most common sexually transmitted disease." Registered Nurse and Health Services Nurse Manager, Edna Merrill, said, "The most common STI here at PSU, for both men and women is Chlamydia."
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a bacterium and can cause serious and permanent damage to a woman's reproductive organs leading to infertility. Having vaginal, oral or anal sex with someone who is infected can transmit this disease. Chlamydia has been known as the 'silent' infection because most people who are infected have no symptoms.
Over 1 million people ages 10 to 24 were reported to have Chlamydia, gonorrhea or syphilis in our nation. There are also over 100,000 pregnant women in the U.S. who are simultaneously infected with Chlamydia each year.
If you think that you have been exposed to Chlamydia or any other disease, get tested as soon as possible. "Students should know that everything is confidential here at Health Services and that they can trust that the information isn't going to be released to anyone, including parents," concluded Merrill.
You can easily protect yourself from becoming infected by an STI by using condoms. The slogan "Trojan Man" guarantees it will bring you and your partner incredibly close. Nonetheless, only 54 percent of college student regularly use condoms during intercourse, and a mere four percent during oral sex. Consequently, one out of every four college students has an STI.
"Health services has free condoms and there are also free condoms also at the wellness center. Students can come in at any time so there is no excuse for not using a condom during sexual activity," said Merrill. "It's important that students have preparation and are aware of the fact that condoms are available." Don't be a statistic. Stay safe, get yourself tested and don't be forced to have those three letters attached to your name for possibly the rest of your life.