Sex Myths--Busted!

By Remy F.

One of the most talked about topics nowadays is sex.  The more talk that there is, the more opportunity there is for misinformation. And trust me, there are a lot of crazy sex myths that I’ve heard both in high school and now in college.  Here are some of the most common sex myths that unfortunately a lot of people believe. I’m busting these myths so you can have a safer and more pleasurable sex life, if and when you (and your partner) are ready. 

MYTH: Sex in the water prevents pregnancy.

Anytime that you have sex, regardless of the position or the location, you are at risk of getting pregnant or getting an STD.  If you would like to reduce your chance of getting pregnant, find out what type of birth control works best for you and use it every time!  Also, remember that the condom is the only method of birth control that protects against STDs so if you use another type of birth control, be sure to use a condom at the same time.

MYTH: The pullout method is an effective form of birth control.

According to Planned Parenthood, 27 out of 100 women will become pregnant each year if they only use the pull out method, also referred to as withdrawal, and do not time it perfectly each time.  Even if a man pulls out in time, pregnancy can still happen.  Pre-ejaculate or pre-cum does not contain sperm, but it can pick up enough sperm left in the urethra from a previous ejaculation to cause pregnancy. If you're serious about preventing pregnancy, you should always use another form of birth control. And again, remember that condoms are the only effective ways to prevent STDs.

MYTH: Men who have sex with men are always more prone to disease no matter what. 

The latest studies reveal that the population of young gay and bisexual men are showing the highest rates of new HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. The reasons behind this are complex and involve many different factors - such as the stigma that still exists around revealing sexual preference with the healthcare provider, or just requesting to be tested for these diseases. There are still many issues around having access to sensitive reproductive and sexual health care. The key thing to remember is that anyone can reduce their chance of getting an STD if they make sure that they (as well as their partners) get tested before engaging in sexual activity and use condoms each and every time they have sex. 

MYTH: Douching after sex helps prevent pregnancy and STDs.

If you have sex, unprotected or not, you are at risk of getting pregnant or an STD - cleaning out your vagina does not reduce these risks. In fact, according to The National Women’s Health Information Center, the natural bacteria found in the vagina keep it clean and healthy. Douching can disturb this healthy environment and can also even spread vaginal infections into the fallopian tubes, uterus, and ovaries.  Not only does douching not prevent pregnancy or STDs, it actually causes more harm than good. 

MYTH: You can’t get pregnant during your period.

Some women have long periods that overlap with the beginning of ovulation, which means that they can be fertile even though they are on their period.  Although it is more unlikely, it is definitely still possible especially if you’re not using a condom or birth control.  Be sure that whenever you engage in sexual intercourse you are using the proper protection to prevent both pregnancy (i.e. a safe, reliable birth control method) and to prevent STDs: condoms!