|
Great question—we’re sure a lot of other students wonder about this.
Let’s divide the answer up into three parts: the world, the United States, and here at Barnard.
For the whole wide world and the whole of the US we’re referencing statistics from the Planned
Parenthood website, which is a great resource for STI (sexually transmitted infection) info.
HPV, human papilloma virus, is the most widespread STI in the world. Here in the
US alone an estimated 20 million people have HPV and over 5 million people contract it every year.
Interestingly though, HPV is not the most common STI in the United States. Rather, Chlamydia is.
And what about here at Barnard? Health Services does not keep statistics but HPV seems to be the
most commonly diagnosed STI at the College.
The most important thing to know about these STIs and STIs in general is that they
are often asymptomatic, meaning that it’s very difficult to be 100% sure that you don’t have one.
If you make the choice to be sexually active the safest thing you can do is always use condoms and
dental dams. Always. Condoms and dental dams really are your best protection (other than abstinence!)
against STIs. For more information on barrier methods, from how to make a dental damn in a pinch to
how to properly put on a condom, stop by the Well-Woman office in 119 Reid or call us at ext.43063.
We’re always happy to answer any and all questions. Always!
| 
