Ignorance is not always bliss... If a loved one or a friend of mine believed she has a STD but she is afraid to get tested--I would encourage her to find out for sure. There are many types of STDs, and along with that, there are many different microorganisms or viruses that can cause them. So, if it were a bacterial STD, a benefit of knowing is that an antibiotic could treat and cure it. If it were viral in nature, there may be a drug that inhibits the progression or symptomology of the infection--another benefit of knowing what is going on.
If she refuses to find out for sure, I would also tell her that she is taking her life into her own hands--she is placing herself at risk for pelvic inflammatory disease (painful), infertility, cancer (from HPV) and possibly death. That might be a scare tactic, but it might be what she needs.
It would also be important for her to realize that she is placing her partners' at risk as well. She would need to inform her partners so that they could seek help or treatment. She would also need to be reminded of the importance of protection to decrease her risk of transmitting or becoming infected with a STD.
Hopefully I would be convincing enough to help her overcome her fear or the realization of that fear. There is hope with STDs.
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2 comments:
I agree with you. Knowing is the only way to be safe. If she does have an STD, she will need to contacting her partners is another issue. I agree. It is very important (and the responsible thing) for her to inform the people she has been active with.
Miriam,
Should you ever be placed in this predicament, you would be a very resourceful individual and hopefully convincing enough to encourage your friend to go for testing and follow through with the recommended treatment. You could also volunteer to take your friend for testing to be there physically for support! Great post.
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