In many social contexts, unintended pregnancies are viewed with a unique urgency and stigma that often outweigh concerns about sexually transmitted infections (STIs). For young people, the fear of an unplanned pregnancy can feel more immediate and life-altering than the possibility of contracting an STI, even though STIs can have serious, sometimes life-long, health impacts if untreated. Pregnancy is often seen as a visible and tangible consequence with immediate social, financial, and emotional implications, while STIs, especially those without immediate symptoms, are less visible and therefore more easily overlooked.
Societal and cultural expectations play a significant role in shaping this perception. Pregnancy often comes with social consequences that impact educational and career opportunities, personal relationships, and reputation. Conversely, STIs are more easily hidden, and the perception that they are treatable or “curable” leads many young people to underestimate their severity. This fear gap may also be fueled by a lack of comprehensive sexual health education that provides balanced information on the risks of both pregnancy and STIs.
This episode unpacked these complex factors, shedding light on why pregnancy tends to be more feared than STIs and addressing the misconceptions that lead to risky behaviours. By exploring both societal pressures and health implications, the episode encourages young people to adopt a more holistic approach to sexual health.
Host: Mavis Aryee
Panellists: Samuel, Hannatu, Jemima, Kenneth, Ransford, Charles, Francisca, Nii Narh, Prince and King James,
Producer: Michael Tetteh Doku
Music
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