Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are becoming more common in the United States. In April 2021, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that STIs hit a record high in 2019—marking the sixth year in a row of increasing cases.
That same year, the CDC tracked over 2.5 million cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 1 million new STIs are transmitted every single day.
Even with rising infection rates, there’s still a lot of stigma around STIs. Because of this, some people might feel uncomfortable talking about sexual health or asking their doctor questions.
This hesitation can lead to misinformation, and since the internet is often the first place people turn to for anonymous advice, not everything they find is reliable.
To clear things up, Medical News Today looked into some common sexual health myths and got expert insight from Dr. Sue Mann, a sexual and reproductive health consultant at Public Health England.
Understanding sexual health better helps people make safe, informed choices. While one article can’t erase long-standing myths, having accurate information out there makes a difference.
1. Taking “the pill” protects against STIs
False. Birth control pills only prevent pregnancy—they don’t stop STIs.
As Dr. Mann explained, “The only way to protect yourself from STIs while on oral contraception is by using a condom.”
The CDC agrees: “Birth control methods like the pill, patch, ring, and IUD are great at preventing pregnancy but don’t protect against STIs or HIV.”
2. The “pull-out method” prevents pregnancy
The withdrawal method (pulling out before ejaculation) isn’t reliable for preventing pregnancy.
Dr. Mann noted that while it might lower the chance of pregnancy, “it’s not a dependable method.”
Why? Because pre-cum (fluid released before ejaculation) can contain sperm. One study found sperm in pre-ejaculate samples from some men, meaning pregnancy could still happen.
The researchers concluded that condoms should be used from the start of sexual contact since some people are more likely to have sperm in pre-cum than others.
3. The “pull-out method” protects against STIs
Nope. Dr. Mann clarified: “You can still get HIV, herpes, syphilis, gonorrhea, or chlamydia this way.”
4. Using two condoms doubles protection
Actually, it’s riskier.
Dr. Mann warned: “Two condoms cause more friction, increasing the chance of breakage. One condom is the safest choice.”
5. You can get an STI from a toilet seat
This myth just won’t die.
Dr. Mann explained: “STIs spread through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex, genital contact, or sharing sex toys.”
She added that STI-causing viruses and bacteria die quickly outside the body, so they can’t survive on surfaces like toilet seats.
6. There’s no treatment for STIs
Not true. While some STIs can’t be cured, many can be treated.
According to the WHO:
- Curable STIs: Syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis (a parasitic infection).
- Treatable but not curable (viral): Hepatitis B, herpes (HSV), HIV, and HPV (though HPV often clears on its own).
7. You can only get an STI through penetrative sex
False. Dr. Mann said: “Oral sex, genital contact, and sharing sex toys can also spread STIs.”
STIs can also spread through blood exposure, like sharing needles.
8. Only gay men get HIV
Absolutely not.
Dr. Mann stressed: “Anyone—regardless of sexual orientation, race, age, or gender—can contract HIV.”
She emphasized testing, which is often free, easy, and confidential (even available at home).
9. You can’t spread an STI without symptoms
Wrong again.
Dr. Mann explained: “Many people pass on STIs without knowing because some infections show no symptoms.”
The WHO confirms that most STIs either have no symptoms or very mild ones, making regular testing and condom use crucial.
The Bottom Line
STIs are common but preventable. Regular testing and safe practices (like using condoms) are key to staying STI-free.