Sexual health myths debunked
MANY myths about sexual intercourse and sexual health have been floating around, and obstetrician-gynaecologist (ObGyn) Dr Jordan Hardie says it is important for women to be informed to avoid possible complications, including infertility and unplanned pregnancy. Here are a few myths that he has debunked.
Abstinence will cause a woman to ‘dry up’
Some women have been told that not having sex will thin the vaginal muscles, cause the vagina to cease up and get tighter, and even result in lacerations and increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STI) when intercourse is resumed after a long hiatus. But Dr Hardie said the risk of vaginal lacerations (tears) are determined by the age of the patient, presence of oestrogen (female hormone), if the patient is pregnant or not, and if the intercourse is traumatic (rough).
“Abstinence will also not increase the risk of a woman contracting an STI. STIs are most commonly transmitted from unprotected intercourse. Also, abstinence from intercourse will not lead to or cause the vagina to ‘dry up’,” he said.
The garlic effect
The ObGyn added that another myth surrounding STIs is that any of them can be treated by placing garlic in the vagina. “This is false. Placing objects in the vagina may lead to worsening of the vaginal infection, foul odours, and serious infections of the blood requiring hospital admission and antibiotics,” he said. “Persons with an STI should see a medical doctor for treatment.”
Preventing pregnancy
Dr Hardie said a popular belief is that having sex with a woman while she is on her period will prevent pregnancy.
“This is false as sperm can survive in a woman’s genital tract after completion of the menses and lead to pregnancy,” he said.
The ObGyn added that many people also believe that douching after intercourse will prevent pregnancy. “Douching after unprotected intercourse may not prevent pregnancy and may increase a woman’s risk of having a vaginal discharge due to the change in the natural environment and pH of the vagina caused by some of the agents used to douche,” Dr Hardie said.
That blue soap advice
The ObGyn said many women have been told that washing the vagina with blue soap or using things like alum and creams will tighten it and cause the sexual experience to be more pleasurable.
“This is false. These creams do not tighten the vagina. These creams can cause drying out of the vagina and in some instances chemical burns,” said Dr Hardie.
