I’m pretty sure you are familiar with this popular saying, “Health is wealth”. Let’s take a deeper look into this.
Health means a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, and not merely the absence of diseases.
With the definition above, I’m sure you can only agree that your health is a superpower that has to be kept in good order. Infants, toddlers, adolescents, youth, and the aged are meant to keep a close eye on their health.
But permit me to say that, you should pay delicate attention to your health as a young person because we are tomorrow’s parents. You may also want to get acquainted with the term “young persons”.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “young persons denote those between age 10-24.”
We live in a world where diseases affect the greater part of young persons, and a large number of these diseases concern our reproductive system. As young people, we could enjoy 100% good health, including our reproductive health, male and female alike.👌
Reproductive health refers to the physical and emotional well-being of adolescents including their ability to remain free from unwanted pregnancies, unsafe abortions, Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) including HIV/AIDS, and all forms of sexual violence and coercion.
It is a key strategy for promoting safe sexual behavior among teens and youths. Education on reproductive health cannot be overemphasized as there is an increase in the cases of people living with sexually transmitted diseases of all forms. Let’s take a look at some proof.
According to statistics, about 38.4 million people were living with HIV globally at the end of 2021 and about 650,000 people died of HIV-related illnesses worldwide in 2021. An estimated 0.7% of youths and adults aged 15-49 years worldwide are living with HIV.
Now, HIV is the most dreaded sexually transmitted disease, and you may think you can’t possibly be a victim. Well… HIV is just one of the many STDs out there. There are a lot of other sexually transmitted diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and other parasites. Some of these diseases are Chlamydia, Genital Herpes, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Pubic lice, and so on. Some of these can be cured while others cannot.
STDs caused by viruses such as Genital Herpes, HIV, Hepatitis, and Human Papillomavirus(HPV) cannot be cured. The individual is infected for life and will always be at risk of infecting their sexual partners. However, treatment for these viruses can significantly reduce the risk of passing on the infection and can reduce or eliminate symptoms. On the other hand, STDs caused by bacteria, yeast, or other parasites can be cured using appropriate medication.
Focus on your reproductive health and work on preventing these diseases rather than seeking a cure. It is very understandable that as young adults we are curious about exploring our bodies, but we must do it with caution. STD carriers don’t wear bands on their heads or any other means of identification showing that they are infected.
HERE ARE SOME PRACTICAL WAYS TO AVOID THESE DISEASES:
📍Abstaining from sex remains the most effective way to avoid STDs.
📍However, the use of condoms is advised for partners, alongside regular check-ups. I don’t think it’s too much asking that your partner be screened before engaging in any intercourse with him or her.
📍Having multiple sexual partners is a complete no-no. It exposes you to a series of infections that could completely damage your reproductive organs.
📍You could also consider using preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP).
PrEP are drugs used to reduce the risk of HIV infection in people who are at very high risk.
📍Lastly, if you notice any unusual signs in your body, do not hesitate to seek help. Visit any nearby hospital facility and request immediate treatment.
Remember, these sexually transmitted diseases are transmissible. Yes, they can be transferred from mother to child and from person to person. So why not take preventive measures now to avoid further complications in the life of your unborn?
A wealthy life begins with your beautiful health!
Take care of it!
Written By: Osunwa Lilian and Covenant Olade
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