In modern life, relationships between individuals have become increasingly open and dynamic. Everyone naturally has their own life choices, including those regarding relationships and sexual activity. However, behind these choices lie important health aspects that are important to understand.
This article is not intended to be judgmental, but rather to encourage greater awareness of the health impacts that can arise from having more than one sexual partner within a given period. By understanding the risks, we can take wiser steps to protect ourselves.
Why Does This Need to Be Discussed?
The human body has a natural defense system to protect itself from germs and infections. However, sexual activity involves direct contact, which allows the exchange of bodily fluids. This is where the potential for disease transmission can occur.
The more frequently a person changes partners, the greater the risk of exposure to various infections that may go unnoticed. It's important to remember that many infections don't immediately show symptoms. This means a person can feel healthy while actually carrying certain germs.
Risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections
One of the main impacts of having multiple partners is an increased risk of sexually transmitted infections. These infections can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi.
Some infections can cause complaints such as:
- Pain when urinating
- Unusual discharge from the intimate area
- Small sores or lumps
- Itching or discomfort
However, many don't experience any symptoms at all. This is why many people often don't realize they've been infected.
If left untreated, the infection can persist in the body for a long time and cause more serious problems.
Impact on Reproductive Health
In women, some untreated infections can spread to the internal reproductive organs. This can affect future fertility. Furthermore, certain infections can increase the risk of cervical cell changes over time.
In men, infections can also cause problems with the reproductive tract and affect sperm quality if left untreated.
Can increase the risk of cervical cancer, if you change partners it can increase the chance of HPV infection which causes cervical cancer.
Not All Risks Are Visible from the Outside
One common misconception is judging someone's health based on their physical appearance. However, many infections cannot be detected by external examination alone.
A person can appear healthy, active, and fit but still carry certain infections. Therefore, regular health checkups are important, especially for those with more than one partner.
The Role of the Immune System
The body does have the ability to fight off some infections. However, not all germs can be easily eliminated. Some viruses can persist in the body for long periods and only cause problems after years.
An unhealthy lifestyle such as lack of sleep, excessive stress, or smoking habits can also weaken the immune system, thereby increasing the risk of infection.
Psychological Factors
Besides the physical impacts, there are also emotional and psychological aspects that are often overlooked. Unstable relationships or changing partners quickly can lead to mental stress, anxiety, or emotional uncertainty.
Everyone's experiences are different, but mental health remains an important part of overall health.
How to Reduce Risk?
Understanding the risks doesn't mean you have to be afraid. In fact, knowledge gives us the opportunity to better protect ourselves.
Some steps that can be taken include:
- Use protective equipment during intercourse.
- Have regular health checks.
- Be open with your partner about your health history.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle so that your immune system remains optimal.
These steps are not to limit life choices, but to ensure the body remains protected.
Education is the Key
Many people still feel this topic is taboo. However, accurate information can prevent many health problems. When people understand how infections spread and how to prevent them, the risk can be significantly reduced.
Talking about reproductive health openly shows concern for yourself and your partner.
Conclusion
Changing sexual partners is certainly a personal choice. However, from a health perspective, there are risks that need to be considered. The more partners you have, the greater your risk of contracting infections that may not be immediately apparent.
The good news is that most of these risks can be reduced with proper preventative measures and regular checkups. The body is a valuable asset that deserves careful care.
Article written by Dr. Handojo Tjandra, MD., MMed O&G (M'Sia)., Sp.OG (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist, EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).