By Opeyemi Adelakun
Sexual health is still a difficult subject for many Nigerians to discuss openly. As a result, people often rely on friends, social media or assumptions when making decisions about their sexual health.
But some common habits can carry risks.
Here are seven mistakes people may be making without realising it.
- Assuming no symptoms means no STI
Many sexually transmitted infections can have no obvious symptoms.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) says the majority of STIs are asymptomatic, meaning people can have an infection without knowing it.
So, feeling fine is not the same as testing negative.
- Using condoms only with “strangers”
Being in a relationship does not automatically rule out an STI.
WHO recommends correct and consistent condom use as an effective way of reducing the risk of most STIs and unintended pregnancy.
- Using condoms incorrectly
Putting on a condom late, removing it before sex ends, using an expired condom or using oil-based products with certain condoms can increase the possibility of breakage or failure.
One condom, used correctly from beginning to end, is better than trying to use two at once.
- Treating yourself without getting tested
Discharge, itching, sores or pain while urinating should not automatically lead to self-prescribed antibiotics.
Different infections can produce similar symptoms, while some produce none at all.
WHO also warns that drug-resistant gonorrhoea is becoming an increasing public-health concern.
- Believing every sexual-health claim online
“Use this after sex.”
“This prevents pregnancy.”
“This cures infection.”
Such claims can spread rapidly on TikTok, WhatsApp and other platforms without medical evidence.
Before trying a sexual-health remedy, check with a qualified healthcare professional.
- Thinking only about HIV
HIV is important, but it is not the only sexually transmitted infection.
WHO lists infections including chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, herpes, hepatitis B and HPV among major STIs.
Vaccines are also available for HPV and hepatitis B, making prevention more than just condom use.
- Avoiding testing because of fear
Some people would rather not know their status.
But an untreated infection can cause serious complications and may unknowingly be passed to a partner.
If you have had a possible exposure or are experiencing unusual symptoms, getting professional medical advice is safer than guessing.
The simple rule: don’t rely on appearance, assumptions or social-media advice when it comes to your sexual health.
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