What We Don't Talk About When We Talk About Love

Rather than roses, chocolates and glittering jewels, I’d like to discuss, today being Valentine’s Day, the other side of contemporary dating life: blisters, warts, shame and embarrassment. In a culture that glamorizes sexuality at every opportunity, the unpleasant outcomes of active sexuality do not receive the necessary attention it deserves. Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and infections (STI), which are solely medical conditions, suggest promiscuity, immorality, uncleanness and other equally unsavory connotations. Because of these culturally objectionable associations, many people newly diagnosed with a STI or STD, confine it to themselves after a hasty conversation with their doctor. And, of course, there is the Internet, the vast public forum for both pertinent medical information, and misinformation and opinions that perpetuate the stigma around sexual illness and sexuality. 

Shame and guilt, when not named and brought out to air, fester and gain momentum and significance. Repression and denial may be effective for a short time, but, eventually, the emotional impact requires processing; otherwise, the original shame and guilt will seep into other parts of life. As difficult as it may seem, what it means to have a STD or STI needs to be talked about. Exploring your feelings now will be better for your emotional and physical health in the long run. You can talk about it with someone in your life who is nonjudgmental, mature and caring, such as a close friend, parents, confidant, partner or a therapist. In addition, it is also very important to understand it from the medical perspective; this is necessary to protect your health in the future.

This topic brings up so many issues, I will make sure to write more on this very soon. 

Thank you for reading.