I’m a doctor – here’s 6 common sex myths and why you must never rely on the ‘pulling out’ method
A DOCTOR has busted six common sex myths amid concerns more teenagers are having sex than ever.
Dr Donald Grant, of The Independent Pharmacy, said medics are “particularly concerned” about teens losing their virginity believing information they find on social media.
He said sex education at schools “is not adequately preparing them for the experience”, leading many to turn to apps like TikTok to gain information — which is often wrong.
A poll by Superdrug showed six in 10 youngsters have read sex misinformation online, with one in 10 acting on it.
And with one in six Brits now having sex from as young as 16, according to a survey by YouGov, Dr Grant has taken it upon himself to correct some misconceptions.
Myth: It’s all about size
With more teenagers exposed to more and more porn on the internet, many young men feel insecure about the size of their manhood.
However, Dr Grant warned having too large a member can cause pain in women, especially if you’re not sufficiently prepared.
He said: “Vaginas are capable of stretching a great deal, particularly during sex and childbirth – so a large penis causing pain during sex is unlikely, though possible.
“Discomfort can, on rare occasions, occur when a penis is deep and makes contact with the cervix – this is because the cervix has nerve endings that can cause a sensation of pain.”
Sex without sufficient lubrication can also cause pain because of friction, so he recommends partners warm up properly and use lube if necessary.
Dr Grant said: “Make sure to engage in foreplay before penetration to build arousal and help to reduce any discomfort.”
Myth: The ‘pull-out’ method is safe
Memes about men’s ‘pull-out game’ are rife on social media, but encouraging the practise could be dangerous.
It involves removing the penis just before ejaculation, with the aim of preventing pregnancy.
However, Dr Grant said this not only risks being ineffective as a contraception, but also increases the chances of STIs compared to using a condom.
He said: “As a medical professional, I wouldn’t recommend pulling out as an effective method of contraception because it does not protect against STIs.
“Also pre-ejaculate — fluid before ejaculation — contains sperm.
“Importantly, female partners have almost no control over pulling out, relying on male partners to not get caught in the moment and withdraw in good time.”
Myth: Your first time won’t be painful
They say you always remember your first time, but Dr Grant warned this could be for the wrong reasons.
Pain or discomfort are common for women when they have sex for the first time, although this doesn’t always have to be the case.
Bleeding can also occur when the hymen breaks, but this shouldn’t be anything to worry about, he said.
Dr Grant said: “Everybody is different and their experience will vary depending on the size and thickness of their hymen.
“For people who do experience pain or bleeding the first time they have sex, my advice is to communicate this with your partner, stop if you feel uncomfortable or take things slowly if you feel happy to continue.
“Know that this is a very normal experience for people having sex for the first time.”
Myth: Oral sex can’t spread STIs
While oral sex can’t result in pregnancy, that doesn’t mean it does not come with risks, Dr Grant warned.
In fact it is actually “one of the most common ways” STIs, he said.
Dr Grant said: “Gonorrhoea, genital herpes, syphilis, and human papillomavirus are thought to be the most common STIs spread through oral sex.
“There are various ways to reduce the risk including wearing a condom or using a dental dam – this is a very thin plastic square that covers a vagina or anus during oral sex.
“You should also get regular STI tests if you’re sexually active to ensure you’re in the clear.”
Myth: Getting contraception is expensive or embarrassing
Buying condoms or the pill at a pharmacy can be daunting for some, putting them off using contraception.
But Dr Grant said it doesn’t have to be that way.
Both are available for free on the NHS and can be acquired discreetly.
Dr Grant said: “I recommend using the NHS free condom service to find a nearby location.
“Similarly, oral contraceptive pills can be sourced from local or online pharmacies, your GP, and various other clinics.
“When distributing or prescribing contraception to young people, these medical practices won’t inform your parents or carers providing they believe you are safe and understand the contraception and the choices you’re making.”
Myth: Getting advice for STIs is difficult
Similarly, many people are put off being tested for STIs because they feel embarrassed.
Dr Grant said there is no need to worry, though, because testing “is generally quick and straightforward”.
He said: “While understandable young people may feel a little anxious, the staff at GP surgeries and sexual health clinics will never judge you.
“They see all kinds of infections and listen to people in the same position as yourself every single day.
“STIs can affect anyone and everyone, whether through relationships between the same or opposite gender.
“If you don’t get checked out, you risk the infection getting worse or transmitting it to other partners.”