Strange Bedfellows: The Truth About STIs with Dr. Ina Park

In this essential episode of the Sex with Emily podcast, Dr. Emily sits down with Dr. Ina Park, associate professor at UCSF School of Medicine and author of "Strange Bedfellows: Adventures in the Science, History, and Surprising Secrets of STDs." From her early days as a peer educator dressed as a giant condom at UC Berkeley to becoming a leading expert in sexual health, Dr. Park brings both humor and expertise to one of the most stigmatized topics in sexual wellness.

We dive deep into the myths and realities surrounding STIs, exploring why HPV is truly "the common cold of the genitals" that nearly everyone will encounter, how herpes stigma far outweighs its actual health impact, and why people who know their status are actually safer partners than those who don't. Dr. Park shares fascinating insights about everything from The Bachelor's problematic STI testing to the connection between pubic hair grooming and infection risk.

This conversation tackles the shame and fear that keep us from having honest discussions about sexual health, while providing practical advice on testing, disclosure, and maintaining healthy relationships regardless of STI status. We also explore the vaginal microbiome, why some people are more susceptible to infections, and promising new treatments on the horizon.

Key Topics Covered:

HPV: Why it's unavoidable and how to think about it differently

Herpes disclosure and reducing transmission risk

The truth about oral sex and STI transmission

Pubic hair, Brazilian waxes, and infection risk

Vaginal health and the microbiome

Why knowing your status makes you a safer partner

Breaking down STI stigma and shame

Dr. Park's refreshing approach reminds us that STIs are simply part of being sexually active humans, and that knowledge, communication, and compassion are our best tools for sexual wellness.

Show Notes:

00:00:00 - Dr. Park's journey from condom costume to STI expert

07:00:00 - HPV: The common cold of the genitals

14:00:00 - Herpes myths, realities, and disclosure strategies

22:00:00 - Oral sex and STI transmission risks

26:00:00 - Pubic hair grooming and infection risk

31:00:00 - Vaginal microbiome and bacterial balance

36:00:00 - Listener Q&A: Real STI concerns answered

42:00:00 - Breaking stigma and having better conversations

This episode emphasizes that sexual health is part of overall wellness, and that honest, shame-free conversations about STIs can transform how we approach intimate relationships.

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