By Triuna.
This summer, I made a faithful trip to the health department for
birth control. I didn’t expect for it to be anything more than just a trip to
talk to some nurses and doctors.
Shortly after that trip, I learned I had a sexually transmitted
infection (STI). It is a truly embarrassing experience. I had to re-evaluate my
actions, my relationship, and the protection I used. It weighed heavily on me
that I actually had a STI. I felt like I made the biggest mistake of my life,
but the nurse that told me about my STI gave me the best advice. She told me,
“Stop crying. It’s curable. Yes it is a bad thing, but you already have
it. Now you know what not to do.” Those words floated around in my head
for a few moments – I realized she was right. A STI doesn’t make you. It’s what
you do after the STI that makes you. Anybody could’ve made the same mistake I
made. You just have take a deep breath, understand and accept your mistake, and
make the necessary changes to make sure it doesn’t happen again. You can’t beat
yourself up over-and-over about it.
Condoms are awesome. Get tested with your partner so you both
know you’re okay. Talk about having a monogamous relationship with your
partner. If it’s just a one-night thing, remember that condoms are
awesome!!
You are NOT a number or statistic because of your STI. Love
yourself regardless. Remember, we all make mistakes. This is not a road block
in your life. You can get past this.
