Listen, we all know STIs are no laughing matter and are taken very seriously by many. In 2023 alone, there were 1.3 million people newly diagnosed with HIV, according to the UN. safe sex
Living with HIV is not an easy task, especially for Black women, as it can damage the immune system and lead to an untimely death. That is why it’s so dangerous for people to engage in unprotected sex.
Based on a Nature Microbiology study, it is risky for Black women to have unprotected sex because their anatomy exposes them to a higher risk of STIs.The study cites a woman’s anatomy as the reason.
However, that is not the only risk, so read on as we go over three reasons why safe sex is so important for Black women.
3 Reasons Why Safe Sex Is So Important for Black Women
1. Black Women Are at Higher Risk Than Most
Black women, especially young Black women, are at a higher risk of contracting HIV than the rest of the population. This discrepancy is mainly because of a Black woman’s socioeconomic status, as it is well documented that those who live in less affluent conditions are more susceptible.
The CDC reports that it is primarily these factors making it harder on young Black women:
- Racism
- Stigma
- Homophobia
- Poverty
- Healthcare barriers
These conditions have only worsened in recent years, which is why it is more important than ever for young Black women to practice safe sex. They must do their best to ignore peer pressure and disregard the stigma of being “a prude” to avoid living with HIV, among other STDs.
RELATED: New Anti-STD Panties Approved by FDA
2. A New Study Shows Women Are More Susceptible to STIs
As mentioned earlier, a new study has shown that women are more susceptible to STIs due to their anatomy. Women can contract diseases like gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and HPV much easier than men because thin tissue lines their lady parts.
This new study highlights why condoms, male and female versions, are essential for preventing mishaps. The contraceptive will prevent any unsightly diseases from penetrating the thin vaginal mucosa inside of young women.
While condoms aren’t perfect, solid evidence suggests they are close to a hundred percent effective against transmitting STDs. Given this new study, settling for close to perfect is better than risking your future health.
Don’t be afraid to bring up the protection conversation with the potential partner. If anything, the results of this new study should be scarier than having an “awkward” conversation with a potential sex partner.
RELATED: 3 Reasons To Try The Female Condom
3. Roe V Wade Has Made Safe Sex More Prevalent
Roe v Wade may have been a blow to women’s rights everywhere, but it has increased general interest in having protected sex. The idea that some will not have the option of abortion will make them more careful when having sex.
This decision will undoubtedly have a ripple effect on Black women and even men because the increased use of prophylactics will lower the risk of transferring any STIs. Therefore, reducing the chance that you will have sex with someone who has an STI.
Of course, if you live in a state with pretty stout protections for abortions, you won’t need to worry about that problem. However, it does give young Black women another reason they can tell their partner why they need to practice safe sex.
RELATED: Why Black Women Will be Most Affected by Roe v. Wade Being Overturned
What Does This Mean for Black Women Moving Forward?
Based on this new study and the Supreme Court overturning Roe v Wade, Black women need to be more careful than ever when engaging in sexual behavior. They can easily contract STIs because of their thin genitalia, and they may not have the Planned Parenthood option from years prior.
But, in light of ongoing studies, staggering statistics, and overturned court decisions, it is much easier than ever to present a solid case for your partner to practice safe sex.
African American deaths due to HIV were the highest they had ever been in 2020, at a staggering 19.1 people per 100,000.
That was almost four times more than Hispanic/Latino and over six times more than the white/caucasian death rate. Stats like that are more than enough to convince someone to wrap it up before they do their business.
