Top Five Sexual Health Myths

This Sexual Health Week we're busting some of the most common sexual health myths we've come across. If you're worried that you might have an STI, visit a sexual health clinic or talk to your GP.

1. MYTH: I don't need to get an STI test because my partner tested negative

Heather / Via openphoto.net

FACT: not all STIs are passed on to a sexual partner. People may have contracted HIV or syphilis many years ago and have no symptoms. These infections are not always passed on. It's really important for both partners to have their own STI screen.

2. MYTH: you should take a break from the contraceptive pill every year

Darren Hester / Via openphoto.net

FACT: there is no reason to take a "break" from the pill - it doesn't build up in your body, and has no effect on future fertility. There are no benefits from taking a break and you run the risk of an unplanned pregnancy.

3. MYTH: if I have symptoms "down below" I must have an STI

© Dana Rothstein / Via dreamstime.com

FACT: other non STI problems such as thrush or urinary tract infections can give symptoms in the genitals - it's best to visit a sexual health clinic and have some tests done to work out what's going on.

4. MYTH: every time I have a blood test at the GP or hospital I must have had an HIV test

Miroslav Vajdić / Via openphoto.net

FACT: most routine blood tests done by a GP or hospital will not specifically look for HIV, and this will not be done without you being asked if you agree to have an HIV test.

5. MYTH: withdrawing means a woman can't get pregnant

Shadowfoot / Via flickr.com

FALSE: sperm can still be present even before ejaculation, and this is not a reliable method of avoiding pregnancy or STIs.