Herpes and Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) are sexually transmitted diseases that still carry a burden of shame and misunderstanding.
The efforts of pharmaceutical companies, medical professionals, support groups, and health professionals to educate the public have improved awareness to some extent.
However, there is still a long way to go in the battle to eliminate stereotypes.
A social stigma is a preconceived judgment that people place on other people.
It is usually based on inaccurate facts and myths.
Stigmas serve no useful role in our society other than to condemn someone for something that they may or may not have done.
It places a value equation on a person's character that can cause severe emotional damage.
The stigma is real.
According to an online survey published by WebMD, genital herpes was ranked as the second highest sexually transmitted disease associated with social stigma.
It was second only to HIV, which tops the list as the most repulsive.
People who did not have genital herpes said that they would avoid having a relationship with someone who does.
HPV is also associated with serious misconceptions and myths.
As the virus responsible for genital warts, people assume all sorts of crazy things about it.
One such idea is that HPV is a disease of prostitutes; only morally corrupt individuals contract it.
The truth is that someone can have only one sexual partner throughout their lifetime and still get it.
For women with HPV, this creates a scenario that is not only damaging to self-esteem, but can pose a serious risk to their health.
Some strains of HPV cause cervical cancer, and the embarrassment can trigger a delay in seeking diagnose and treatment.
What is the solution to the vast wasteland of people who are dedicated to believing the falsehoods that surround sexually transmitted diseases?The answer to an informed and tolerant society lies in education.
Sharing scientifically based facts about genital herpes and HPV can help stop the madness.
Regardless of whether or not someone has one of these viruses, they can make a difference in the prevalence of STDs.
Sharing information about what genital herpes and genital warts are, how people contact them, and how common these diseases are, is a positive thing.
In the process, they might just make a change in the life of someone who is feeling worthless and alone.
There is an abundance of resources available for learning about herpes and HPV.
Love H, Style is dedicated to creating a supportive environment for informing the public and teaching valuable coping skills.
Regardless of the chosen tool, everyone should do his or her part to eliminate the hurtful cycle of hate.
Become an advocate and make a difference in the world.