Sexually Transmitted Diseases Essay, Research Paper

Kim, Steve

Final Exam Essay

Psy 120

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

It is almost inevitable not to find an illustration or a magazine depicting the human body sexually and quite provocatively. Almost every magazine out on the newsstand has the potential to communicate explicit images of the body of both genders sensually or sexually. Although, the media and popular culture encourage us to express ourselves sexually, Americans continue to experience a great deal of embarrassment, shame, and guilt over their sexuality. The accepted perception of this deep ambivalence discourages us from dealing realistically with sexually transmitted diseases.

From a study the incidence of STDs occurring in the U.S. each year is estimated to be more than 12 million cases. STD?s have become prevalent and rampant among teens. Social factors include changes in acceptable sexual behavior. Changing patterns have led to the widespread acceptance of sexual activity outside of marriage, for both women and men. Inconsistent condom use since the advent of birth control pills, IUD, and obstruction of educational efforts. In addition, research by vocal minorities who confuse medical issues with moral ones, inadequate health-care facilities, and the misuse of alcohol All of the following are leading contributors of STDs. Biological factors include the fact that STDs are asymptomatic, that is, they produce no symptoms especially in the first stages. A person may have an STD and infect others without knowing that one is affected. The evolution of strains of viruses and bacteria that are resistant to prescribed antibiotics. The principle STDs affecting Americans are chlamydia, gonorrhea, urinary tract infections, syphilis, genital warts, genital herpes, hepatitis, vaginitis, and HIV/AIDS. Parasites that may be sexually transmitted include scabies and pubic lice.

Women tend to be the victims and are generally more susceptible to STDs than men, such as pelvic inflammatory disease. It is an infection of the fallopian tubes that can lead to infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Intense stimulation of the vulva can irritate the urethra, leading to cystitis, a bladder infection. The disease is common with women who have had a number of sex partners. As a result, women risk greater damage to their health and reproductive functioning. However, depending on one?s sexual orientation STDs vary.

The way to prevent STDs involves the interaction of knowledge, psychological factors, and behaviors to avoid taking risks. Abstinence is a legitimate personal strategy for avoiding STDs. Good health hygiene, including safer sex, are very effective in protecting against STDs. Consistent condom use is an important component of safer sex. When people value themselves, their bodies, and their lives, they are likely to practice good health behaviors. However, if one is infected one should seek medical attention at the onset of symptoms and should follow treatment instructions.

I found the following to be interesting and quite informative. A growing number of teens are becoming more sexually active and they need to be aware of the consequences of STDs. If individuals engage in intercourse they should fall into the habit of practicing safe sex by taking measures to follow all the necessary steps to prevent or reduce the chances of becoming infected. We have to acknowledge that some STDs are incurable such as herpes, genital warts, and HIV.