Protection, Anyone?

It is 2013 and everything, everywhere is sexually charged. ABC, CBS, NBC, major networks which you think would have some censorship, seem to have no holds barred. Society has evolved to encourage sexual activity. As such, we unknowingly associate sex with a lot different objects and emotions. We think sex will generate money, fame, happiness, and success.  And to add insult to injury, we’re constantly exposed to sexual innuendos- Miley Cyrus poses naked on a wrecking ball, Lil Wayne has children by four (4) different women, and Kim Kardashian achieved her fame when a sex video went viral. Sex generates a lot of things but it is highly unlikely sex will bring you long lasting money, fame, happiness or success. We’re exposed to sexual behavior under the impression it is a topic of light discussion, however, it is quite the opposite. Sex is complicated and can lead to a whirlwind. So, it is important you protect yourself from the sexual complications society has imposed.  The best and most ideal way to do so is to practice abstinence. Abstain from premarital sex and guard yourself from sexually transmitted diseases, teenage pregnancy, and quite frankly, unnecessary heart ache. Understand, being a virgin and saving yourself until marriage is not a trendy topic, but it is highly important we recognize the value in practicing abstinence.  According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 20 million people contract a sexually transmitted disease or infection each year. While STDs and STIs affect men and women of all backgrounds and economic levels, it is estimated that over half of those infected are between the ages of 15 and 24.

Sexually transmitted diseases often times go unnoticed as many come without warning or symptoms. The most common STDs are HIV/AIDS, Bacterial Vaginosis, Chancroid, Chlamydia, and Genital Herpes/HSV. While a majority of STDs can be cured with antibiotics and intense treatments, there are STDs that are incurable. Out of the top five (5) most common STDs two (2) are permanent- HIV/AIDS and Genital Herpes/HSV. Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) was first reported in the United States during the summer of 1981 and is caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Since the first report, AIDS has infected approximately 1.7 million people and HIV places its heaviest burden on the African American community. According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, the African American community contributed to 46% of the AIDS population in 2008.  While this should raise concern, it’s even more alarming to know that 20% of Americans unknowingly live with HIV/AIDS. The same goes for the most common sexually transmitted disease, Genital Herpes. When it comes to Genital Herpes, many people have no idea they are infected. A sexual partner can transmit the Herpes disease without any symptom, especially men.  Therefore, it is easier for women to contract Herpes. Studies released by the CDC state that 1 out of every 5 women, ages 14-49, live with Herpes. The disease is extremely painful and uncomfortable as it can produce blister sores around the genitalia, mouth, and/or even parts of your body like your arms or hands. When a non infected person comes in contact with a Herpes blister or sore, all it takes is for the fluid of that sore to touch the non infected person’s body and the disease is theirs for a lifetime.  An irreversible disease will forever have an effect on your overall health, sex life, and relationships. Care enough about your life and your body to protect yourself from these harmful diseases. Always, always, always know your status and get tested frequently. If you get tested and find out you are a carrier of any STD/STI be aware and make others aware. You might be ashamed and embarrassed to embrace your diagnosis, but in reality, the rest of America relies on you to keep the masses healthy and informed.

Another issue we face when having sex is getting pregnant. Teen pregnancy statistics show that approximately 820,000 teenage girls conceive a year. Over half of the teenage girls who conceive will get an abortion. Life can throw curve balls and sometimes abortions are warranted. However, abortions are not contraceptives and should not be used as such. There are precautionary measures we as women have to take in order to, again, do what is best for our overall health, sex life, and relationships. Be responsible for your life by protecting yourself with condoms and birth control. If you are sexually active, visit your local Health Department or Planned Parenthood facility for free or low cost examinations and contraceptives. The average cost to raise a child (through the age of 18) is $250,000.00. If you currently work at Sonic and don’t pay a single bill, I highly doubt you can afford to adequately provide for a child. There are ample resources to prevent you from exposing yourself to unwanted pregnancies. Know your options and make the best decision for you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=boUqU4YZjl0

The fact of the matter is: there are people in this world who have contracted sexually transmitted diseases, and there are women in this world who have gotten pregnant and opted for an abortion. While you can go on living if face with either scenario, both can have negative implications on your health, self esteem, and future. Respect yourself enough to protect yourself. Find a mentor, big sister, or even a friend who is willing to talk to you about the issues you face once you become sexually active.  If you’ve chosen abstinence, be prepared anyway. As a teenager with raging hormones and mounds of constant peer pressure you are liable to experience anything. Keep yourself educated and informed about your health and prevent yourself from having negative, unnecessary experiences. Remember, no one will respect you unless you first respect yourself. Don’t allow the ways of the world to automatically become your way of life. Be smart and stay safe. Remain confident in who you are and know that every decision made today will impact your tomorrow. So, protect your health and beauty by protecting yourself.

Until next time, abstinence, safe sex, awareness, health and beauty.