This video discusses the stigma associated with sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), explaining how it can lead to harmful consequences such as avoiding testing or not being honest with partners. It emphasizes the importance of education about STDs, highlighting that they are common and can be contracted even with protection.

"Hey, Fishy, you remember that guy's name, right? You know, the tall one? The one who used to date Amy? Come on! I told you about him the other day! What was his name? Why do I bother? Everybody knows fish have short-term memory." STD stigma is when a person with an STD is judged or shamed by others, even though the judgment likely stems from false information. There are many stereotypes about what it takes to get a sexually transmitted disease, like you have sex with a lot of people, you are dirty, or you never use protection. None of these are based in fact, however. Unfortunately, stigma about STDs can be really damaging since it can cause people to feel embarrassed or ashamed about themselves. This embarrassment might in turn cause them to not get tested for STDs, which means the infection could get worse and cause more damage. STD stigma might also cause someone to not be honest with their partner about past partners or STDs they may have. They may worry that if they told the truth, the new partner might judge them. This is why it's important for people to be educated about the facts about STDs. STDs are incredibly common and almost everyone who has sex will get an STD at some point in their life. Most STDs don't cause any symptoms, so people often become infected without knowing it. You can get an STD the first time you have sex with someone, and even if you use protection perfectly, since condoms don't cover all parts of the genital area. So the next time you hear of someone with an STD, don't judge. STDs are common, and if you are having sex, don't forget to ask your healthcare provider to test you for STDs. Until next time, don't forget to visit me at omaze.org or go to my YouTube channel to watch more. Bye!