HIV/STI Fact or Fiction

Front

You can tell if someone has an STI by looking at them.

Back

Fiction

Answer explanation

It is fiction that you can tell if someone has an STI just by looking at them. Many STIs can be asymptomatic, meaning a person may not show visible signs or symptoms, making it impossible to determine their status visually.

Front

You can get an STI the first time you have sex.

Back

Fact

Answer explanation

It is a fact that you can get an STI the first time you have sex, as STIs can be transmitted through sexual contact regardless of experience. Therefore, practicing safe sex is important from the very first encounter.

Front

Birth control pills protect against STIs.

Back

Fiction

Answer explanation

Birth control pills do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They are designed to prevent pregnancy, not to provide any barrier against STIs, making the statement fiction.

Front

If both partners are virgins (they have not had sexual intercourse), they can’t get an STI.

Back

Fiction

Answer explanation

The statement is fiction because STIs can be transmitted through non-intercourse activities, such as oral sex or skin-to-skin contact. Therefore, being a virgin does not guarantee immunity from STIs.

Front

You can get an STI from a toilet seat.

Back

Fiction

Answer explanation

You cannot get an STI from a toilet seat because STIs are transmitted through direct sexual contact, not through surfaces. Therefore, the statement is fiction.

Front

Condoms are very effective at preventing most STIs.

Back

Fact

Answer explanation

Condoms are designed to create a barrier that reduces the risk of transmitting most sexually transmitted infections (STIs), making the statement a fact.

Front

If you don’t have symptoms, you don’t have an STI.

Back

Fiction

Answer explanation

This statement is fiction because many STIs can be asymptomatic, meaning a person can be infected without showing symptoms. Regular testing is important for sexual health, regardless of symptom presence.

Front

Getting tested once means you’re safe forever.

Back

Fiction

Answer explanation

Getting tested once does not guarantee lifelong safety. Infections can occur after testing, so regular testing is essential for ongoing safety.

Front

You can get an STI from oral sex.

Back

Fact

Answer explanation

It is a fact that you can get a sexually transmitted infection (STI) from oral sex. Certain STIs can be transmitted through oral contact with infected genital areas, making this statement true.

Front

HIV can be managed with medicine so people can live long, healthy lives.

Back

Fact

Answer explanation

HIV can be effectively managed with antiretroviral therapy, allowing individuals to maintain their health and live long lives. Therefore, the statement is a fact.