9 Common STI Myths — Debunked by Experts
When it comes to sexually transmitted infections (STIs), there’s a lot of misinformation floating around. Whether it’s from friends, the internet, or old-school health class rumors, these myths can lead to risky behavior and unnecessary worry. Let’s clear the air with expert-backed facts — and bust some of the most common myths about STIs.
1. If You’re on the Pill, You Can’t Get an STI
This is a big misconception. Birth control pills are great at preventing pregnancy — but they do not protect you from STIs.
As Dr. Mann explains, oral contraceptives are only designed to stop pregnancy. If you want to avoid catching an STI, you still need to use a condom.
The CDC backs this up, stating that methods like the pill, patch, ring, or IUD may prevent pregnancy, but they do not protect against STIs or HIV.
2. The Withdrawal Method Prevents Pregnancy
Also known as the pull-out method or coitus interruptus, this technique involves pulling the penis out before ejaculation. While it may slightly lower the chance of pregnancy, it’s far from reliable.
Dr. Mann puts it clearly: the withdrawal method isn’t dependable. Not only is it tough to do perfectly every time, but the penis also releases pre-ejaculate (or pre-cum) — and this fluid can contain sperm.
One study found that viable sperm was present in the pre-ejaculate of 10 out of 27 participants. For some people, every sample had sperm. That means some men are more likely to have sperm in their pre-cum than others — and there’s no way to tell who’s who.
Bottom line? Condoms should be used from the very start of genital contact.
3. The Withdrawal Method Also Prevents STIs
Another myth. Even if there’s no ejaculation, STIs like HIV, herpes, syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia can still be transmitted during sex.
Dr. Mann confirms: withdrawal does not prevent STIs.
4. Wearing Two Condoms Offers Double Protection
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It might seem like two condoms would be better than one — but actually, it’s more risky.
“Using more than one condom creates extra friction, which increases the chance of them tearing,” says Dr. Mann. That makes things worse, not better.
Stick with one properly used condom for the best protection.
5. You Can Catch an STI from a Toilet Seat
This myth just won’t go away — but it’s absolutely false.
Dr. Mann explains that STIs are spread through unprotected vaginal, oral, or anal sex, genital contact, and shared sex toys — not toilet seats.
Why? Because the viruses and bacteria that cause STIs can’t live long outside the human body. They die quickly on surfaces like toilet seats, making transmission this way virtually impossible.
6. There’s No Treatment for STIs
This one is partly true — but mostly false. Some STIs are curable, others are treatable.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are eight major pathogens behind most STIs:
- Curable STIs: chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and trichomoniasis (a parasite)
- Incurable but treatable STIs: HIV, herpes (HSV), hepatitis B, and HPV
Some of the viral STIs, like HPV, often go away on their own. And even when they don’t, modern treatments can help manage symptoms and reduce transmission.
7. You Can’t Get an STI Without Penetrative Sex
Wrong again. STIs can spread through oral sex, genital contact, and even from shared sex toys.
You can also contract some infections through contact with infected blood — for instance, by sharing needles.
8. Only Gay Men Get HIV
This is a dangerous and outdated myth. HIV doesn’t care about your gender, age, race, or sexual orientation.
“Anyone can get HIV,” says Dr. Mann. “If you have HIV and don’t know it, you’re more likely to pass it on. But if you know your status, you can take steps to stay healthy and protect others.”
Testing is key — and in many countries, it’s free, confidential, and easy. In fact, you can even take an HIV test in the comfort of your own home.
9. You Can Only Pass on an STI if You Have Symptoms
Not true. Many STIs can be passed on even when you feel perfectly fine.
“A lot of people don’t know they’re infected because symptoms can be mild or totally absent,” explains Dr. Mann.
According to the WHO, most STIs have no symptoms — or symptoms that are so subtle, they’re not recognized. That’s why it’s crucial to:
- Get tested regularly
- Use condoms consistently
FAQs About STIs
Q: Can you get an STI from oral sex?
A: Yes. Infections like herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis can all be spread through oral sex.
Q: Do condoms protect against all STIs?
A: Condoms greatly reduce your risk — but they’re not 100%. Some infections, like herpes or HPV, can be spread through skin-to-skin contact in areas not covered by a condom.
Q: How often should I get tested?
A: If you’re sexually active, aim to get tested at least once a year — or more often if you have new or multiple partners.
Q: Can STIs be cured?
A: Some can, like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Others, like HIV and herpes, can’t be cured — but they can be managed with medication.
Q: Is it true that HPV goes away on its own?
A: In many cases, yes. The immune system can clear most HPV infections naturally within a couple of years.
Conclusion: Know the Facts, Protect Your Health
STIs are common, but misinformation makes them harder to prevent and treat. The good news? Armed with accurate info, you can make smarter choices to protect yourself and your partners.
Don’t rely on myths — rely on testing, protection, and open conversations. Whether you’re in a new relationship, using birth control, or think you “feel fine,” staying informed is your first line of defense.
Get tested. Use protection. And don’t be afraid to ask questions — because your sexual health matters.