Just Melancholy

My sister recently called me and urged me to get the vaccine shot for cervical cancer. I had seen the commercials and advertisements on TV, but I hadn’t considered getting the shot.

I was surprised to learn that Human Papillomavirus is the most common STD, affecting over 20 million Americans. It can cause cervical cancer, genital warts, and other types of cancer. Although there is no “cure” for HPV, there are some things you can do to protect yourself from getting the virus. First, you can abstain from all sexual activity . Second, you can get regular Pap smears. Third, get the HPV vaccine. Fourth, limit the amount of sexual partners you have in your lifetime. Fifth, wear a condom because it can reduce your infection risk by about 70 percent.

I also found some common questions answered and an article about the new vaccination that is sweeping the world. Tell me what you think about this controversial subject.

…or better yet, abstinence.  It is truly the only way to ensure protection against a sexually transmitted disease, infection, or an unplanned pregnancy. 

You should always discuss safe sex with your partner, a health professional, or peer educator before you make the decision to have sex.  Not doing so can result in difficult, often devastating consequences. 

Never feel pressured into having sex, probably one of the worst reasons to justify such a big decision.  You should never have to compromise or your values or conform to social standards just to fit in or be part of the crowd.  If you do not want to have intercourse, be honest with your partner and stick to your decision.

Stay away from alcohol or drugs if you think things may get physical and go in a direction you do not want to.  Since substance abuse leads to impaired judgment, it will interfere with sound decision-making, which can lead to any number of consequences such as contracting an STD, date rape, or not using protection. 

Remember the buddy system from elementary school?  The same applies when you go out to a party or bar.  Go with friends and make sure you keep an eye out for each other.  Agree beforehand that you will let the other one know if you decide to leave and with whom.  Also, getting a second trusted opinion from a close friend could stop you from making a decision you most likely will regret later.

Respect everyone and the decisions they make.  Whether it is you or your partner that wants to abstain from sex, respect and support the decision.  There is no ideal age, unspoken rule, or point in a relationship where sex must take place.  Discuss and identify the reasons behind the decision and stick with it!