There are lots of myths out there about sex and sexual health, so it can be hard to know what the truth is sometimes. Here are 12 popular myths, why we think it's true, and what is actually correct.
1. Men don’t need to worry about contraception.
- Why we may think that: Contraception is often thought of as a woman's responsibility, and men don't usually have the same access to or discussions about contraception.
- What is actually correct: Men do need to worry about contraception if they are sexually active and want to avoid unwanted pregnancies and STIs. Condoms and Dental Dams are widely accessible options, and there are other potential male contraceptives being researched.
2. STIs aren’t a big deal; they’re easy to treat.
- Why we may think that: Some STIs are treatable with antibiotics, and others, like HIV, can be managed with medications, leading people to believe all STIs are easily dealt with.
- What is actually correct: While some STIs are treatable (e.g., chlamydia, gonorrhoea), others, like herpes, HPV, and HIV, have no cure and can lead to serious long-term health complications. Some STIs (e.g. chlamydia) are asymptomatic so it’s important to get tested regularly and use protection.
3. STIs will go away on their own without treatment.
- Why we may think that: People may believe that minor symptoms or discomfort will resolve without intervention, or they may feel embarrassed to seek medical help.
- What is actually correct: Many sexual health issues, such as STIs or infections, require professional treatment to avoid complications. Delaying treatment can lead to more severe health problems, such as infertility or chronic pain. You can get STIs tests done at the Sexual Health Clinic which is a judgement-free space with medical professionals available to guide you through the process.
4. If you’re on your period, you’re protected from pregnancy.
- Why we may think that: People may assume that because the body is shedding the uterine lining during menstruation, it’s not possible to get pregnant.
- What is actually correct: It is possible to get pregnant during your period, especially if you have a short menstrual cycle. Sperm can survive inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if you have sex near the end of your period, you could still conceive if you ovulate soon after.
5. A larger penis equals better sex.
- Why we may think that: Society, media, and pornography often emphasize the size of a penis as being important for sexual satisfaction.
- What is actually correct: Sexual satisfaction is about many factors, such as communication, emotional connection, and mutual respect. Penis size is not the key to better sex, and many studies show that most partners are satisfied with average penis sizes.
6. Birth control pills protect against STIs.
- Why we may think that: Birth control pills are effective at preventing pregnancy, so some people may mistakenly think they also protect against sexually transmitted infections.
- What is actually correct: Birth control pills do not protect against STIs. Condoms and Dental Dams are the most effective way to reduce the risk of STIs during sexual activity.
7. If you can’t get an erection, you’re not sexually attracted to your partner.
- Why we may think that: Erection problems may be associated with lack of desire or attraction, which is a common assumption.
- What is actually correct: Erectile dysfunction (ED) can have many causes, including stress, anxiety, health issues (like diabetes or heart disease), or medication side effects. It does not necessarily reflect a lack of attraction to a partner.
8. Pulling out is a reliable form of contraception.
- Why we may think that: People may think that if a man withdraws before ejaculation, it’s a safe way to prevent pregnancy.
- What is actually correct: The "pull-out" method is unreliable, as pre-ejaculate (pre-cum) can contain sperm, and timing withdrawal perfectly can be difficult. It's much safer to use other forms of contraception, such as condoms or birth control.
9. Sexual pleasure is all about penetration.
- Why we may think that: Media and cultural norms often emphasize penetration as the focal point of sexual pleasure.
- What is actually correct: Sexual pleasure can come from many different activities, including touching, kissing, oral sex, and emotional intimacy. Every person has different preferences, and pleasure is not limited to penetration.
10. You can’t get an STI from kissing.
- Why we may think that: Kissing is often viewed as a safer form of intimacy than intercourse, and some STIs seem to be linked to genital contact.
- What is actually correct: Some STIs, like oral herpes, syphilis, and mono, can be transmitted through kissing, especially if one partner has visible sores or is infected.
11. Oral contraceptives (e.g. birth control pills) cause infertility in the long term.
- Why we may think that: There’s a misconception that long-term use of birth control pills can affect fertility permanently.
- What is actually correct: Oral contraceptives do not cause permanent infertility. Most women can become pregnant shortly after stopping birth control pills (and long term contraceptives such as the implant or coil), though it may take a few months for the body to adjust.
12. Contraceptives like IUDs are only for women who’ve already had children.
- Why we may think that: There is a misconception that IUDs are unsuitable for women who haven’t had children, as they may be seen as more invasive.
- What is actually correct: IUDs are safe and effective for women who haven’t had children. They’re suitable for many women regardless of their pregnancy history, though some types may be more commonly recommended depending on individual health circumstances. It’s best to speak with your GP about the options available.
Written by Sumit Mahlawat
