We’ve heard the tale before. A friend of a friend contracted herpes or gonorrhoea from sitting on the toilet seat of a public washroom. The story seems plausible enough and we’re left feeling somewhat horrified the next time we absolutely have to use the loo when we’re out in public.
Now, let’s debunk this myth once and for all: NO, you cannot contract a sexually transmitted infection (STI) from a toilet seat. Not now, not ever!
Sexual health expert Professor Basil Donovan says germs that cause STIs usually can’t survive long after leaving the human body. This also means STI germs cannot live or reproduce on inanimate objects such as toilet seats, eating utensils or in swimming pools. Phew!
So this begs the question, how did the myth begin in the first place?
Like many old wives’ tales, it might have started off as a cautionary way to remind others about the importance of hygiene – hence the warning against using a dirty toilet and picking up something like an STI. Unfortunately, the story stuck.
The myth could also have been perpetuated by cheating spouses, who used it as a convenient excuse to explain the STI they contracted – after all, it is easier to blame a toilet seat than own up to one’s unfaithfulness.
If STIs don’t transmit through toilet seats, how does it really spread?
STIs are infections that are normally passed from one person to another through sexual contact. Sexual contact could include anything from kissing and touching to vaginal and anal sex involving the genitals, mouth and/or anus.
Some STIs are transmitted through blood. A distinct and separate organism (bacteria, virus, fungus or protozoa) causes each STI.
STIs most commonly transmitted through sex
In 2010, a noticeable shift was detected in how STIs were transmitted. Research revealed that more cases of STIs were transmitted through sex than through the sharing of needles among drug addicts.
In 2015, 78.1% of new HIV cases were transmitted sexually and only 17% involved drug addicts.
Therefore, if you’re sexually active, it is important to observe these guidelines:
• If you notice or feel a difference in the region of your genitals, mouth or anus, seek medical attention immediately – even if it is just for peace of mind. Things to look out for include redness, pain, swelling, a burning sensation, itchiness, soreness, rashes and bumps.
• Practise safe sex. Use a condom even though it does not offer 100% protection from contracting an STI.
• Get checked often if you are sexually active with multiple partners. Most hospitals and even small clinics in Malaysia offer STI screening.
Admittedly, there is a strong social stigma associated with STI patients. People often assume that having an STI means the end to one’s love and social life. But remember, contracting an STI is NOT the end of the world.
Even for incurable forms of STIs such as HIV and herpes, there are plenty of drugs available to reduce the symptoms and improve the quality of a patient’s life.
Besides getting medical help, it is also important to seek out counselling services and therapies to understand the condition better, boost your self-esteem and feel better about yourself and who you are.
Remember, STIs can be transmitted in many ways but toilet seats are not one of them. While there are many reasons not to use the toilet seat of a public restroom, the possibility of contracting an STI is definitely not one of them.
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DISCLAIMER: The information in this article is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You are encouraged to confirm any information obtained here with other sources, and review all information with your physician. Please do not disregard professional medical advice or delay treatment because of something you have read here. FMT is not responsible and liable for any damage caused through information obtained here.