The awareness about sexual health among youngsters is increasing nowadays. They are exposed to information that helps them be aware of issues related to sex namely hygiene and protection (safe sexual practices). But in-spite of this, the incidence of sexually transmitted diseases remains very high among young people in India.
This is especially true among college going students. A lot of these students are sexually active and a lot of them are involved with multiple partners. The atmosphere and the need to experiment in this age group can be a breeding ground for the transmission of various types of STD’s.
Partying is a very common part of the college scene, with consumption of alcohol and drugs being commonplace. These diminish the thinking capacity and lowers inhibitions to sometimes such levels that it can lead the user to make some decisions, especially when it comes to sex , which they may regret later.
Unfortunately the sense of embarrassment is the key reason why a lot of youngsters don’t get themselves tested for STD’s even after their indiscretions. Another reason why they don’t feel the need to test is because a lot of sufferers of STD’s don’t show the actual symptoms till its too late.
Lack of STD testing clinics and facilities is also a factor for such low levels of testing for sexually transmitted diseases.
It’s important for the young generation of today to realize that it is imperative for them to test for STD’s if they are sexually active, as early detection of these diseases is a key factor for successful treatment of the same.
There is a need for more government and private testing clinics to be available and these clinics should emphasize that the privacy of the person is protected as this is a major roadblock for most young people who want to get themselves tested.