There are a number of myths going around on the internet, and we do fall for many of them, and it is not entirely our fault. The Internet does provide us with many useful ideas and, every once in a while, a myth that could really put us off.
That is where we come to your rescue, and through this blog, we aim to debunk a major one. Can you get STDs from the toilet seat? Read along to know the answer.
Can You Get An STD From The Toilet Seat?
When you go out, your biggest fear might be finding a good restroom. Clean, hygienic, and obviously used, but not too much. However, the moment we think about a public restroom, the image that comes to mind is not comforting at all. Even if it’s tidy, it is something strangers use, right? It could lead to an STD.
Certainly, the internet thinks so; it might be true. Then let us be the myth-busters. There is no actual scientific evidence that suggests that sitting on a toilet seat can cause STDs. STDs can be contracted by sexual contact or by exchanging needles with an infected person.
This means you need to be in direct contact with the person, and he or she should share bacteria, parasites, or viruses with you. Since neither of these happens when you use the same restroom, it cannot cause an STD.
Also Check: Why STD Education For Young Adults Is Important? Ensure A Safer Future
Other Reasons Why Toilet Seats Cannot Be Carriers Of STD
There are other reasons why toilet seats cannot be carriers of STD bacteria. Firstly, there is no chance of the bacteria or viruses surviving on a surface for a prolonged period of time. If you have an open wound, you might have a chance of being infected, but casual contact can change nothing.
Secondly, there is no conducive environment available on the toilet seat for bacteria to thrive. If the restrooms are disinfected regularly, bacteria, if any, would certainly perish. Lastly, skin or urine cannot carry the STD bacteria. They can only be transferred through body fluids and are often found in rectal or genital tissues.
Precautions To Take While Using Public Toilets
Though getting infected from a toilet seat is considerably low, that doesn’t mean you cannot use caution when using a public restroom. It is always advisable to keep in mind some pointers so that you can prevent getting affected by STDs.
- Avoid direct contact with surfaces: You can either use toilet seat covers or maybe tissue paper to cover the surface of the toilet seat before using it. This can protect you from rubbing off any fluids.
- Practice good hygiene: Every time you use a public restroom, make sure that you wash your hands for at least 20 seconds using soap and water.
- Use hand sanitizer: To add an extra layer of protection, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Remember to use hand sanitizer after washing your hands properly.
- Avoid touching your face: If you think your hands are unclean,n please refrain from touching your eyes, face, mouth, or nose to avoid the membranes.
- Choose clean restrooms: Make sure you use facilities that are clean and proper.
- Educate yourself: Read on what can or cannot harm you Know the causes and take precautions.
Read More: Recognizing The Hidden Symptoms Of Gonorrhea You Should Never Ignore
There are some additional strategies one could adopt to make themselves safe.
Additional Tips To Prevent STD
- Practice safe sex: As we know, the primary cause of STDs is unsafe sex. Use condoms.
- Get vaccinated: Some of the kinds of STIs have vaccines. The human papillomavirus has a vaccine that can be administered to males and females. Taking HPV vaccines can protect you from cancer as well. Hepatitis B also has a vaccine, and you should consider taking it.
- Know your partner better: Before having sexual relations, it is ideal to know more about your partner’s sexual history.
- Limit sexual partners: Multiple sexual partners can increase your risk of STIs.
- Get tested: Even if you have multiple partners, make sure you are tested.
- Avoid sharing needles: Don’t share needles at any cost. Always make sure you use a clean and fresh one.
- Consider PrEP: This is a medicine that could be taken by anyone who has a higher risk of exposure. Always let your health worker guide you.
- Regular health checkups: This means complete body checkups, including saliva, blood, and x-rays as well. This is important because sometimes STDs can present without symptoms.
