Casual sex and hookup culture are portrayed as the norm in films, books, and shows. We are told that it is safe, easy, and even healthy! But there’s an often ignored dark side to the story. Unfortunately, the real truth about casual sex rarely reaches mainstream culture.  

The truth is, STDs are a serious threat to everyone who engages in sexual activity with multiple partners. Many people, especially teenagers or young adults, are misled and misinformed about the risks they take when engaging in hookup culture. 

STDs and STIs are diseases or infections that are transmitted primarily, if not exclusively, through sexual contact. You can be infected through any kind of sexual intercourse including oral sex, even if you are otherwise healthy. 

If you are wondering whether you might have an STD, please consider the facts: 

The Truth About STDs:

  • STDS ARE HIGHLY CONTAGIOUS

1 in 2 sexually active young people will get an STD by the time they are 25. Remember, depending on the number of partners you both have had, you aren’t just having sex with each other, you are potentially carrying and passing multiple partner germs amongst each other.

At least 20% of the population of the United States has STDs–over 65 million people. The Centers for Disease Control state that there are 110 million cases in the United States — and 20 million new cases each year!

  • MANY STDS DON’T HAVE SYMPTOMS RIGHT AWAY

About 50% of men and 70% of women who are infected do not have any symptoms from STDs.

  • YOUR BEST SHOT AT A CURE IS EARLY TREATMENT

Some STDs can only be cured if they are treated early. There is nothing to lose in getting tested. Sadly, if you wait too long and the disease is given time to develop, it can sometimes be too late and untreatable.

  • CHOICES PREGNANCY CENTERS OFFER LOW-COST TESTING FOR ANYONE!

If you have any reason at all to think you may have contracted an STD, your best course is to get tested right away. In this case, even if your test is positive, there are many treatment options especially if you catch it early. Choices Pregnancy Centers can help you form the best treatment plan going forward. 

Are you feeling scared, pressured, or ashamed? Choices is staffed with caring, non-judgmental counselors, advocates, and health workers who are ready and willing to help you, talk with you and provide care in a safe space. We will answer your questions and help address your concerns. 

Choices offers affordable, confidential testing from medical professionals for men and women. If you do test positive for an STD we can write you a prescription for the appropriate medication. Call your closest Choices center to schedule an appointment.