There is a lot of misinformation out there about sex. Getting good sexual information is the start of protecting your sexual health. Here are a few sexual misconceptions we can clear up for you. Knowledge is power, so here is some knowledge about some common sexual misconceptions and myths you might recognize.

• The pill protects you from STIs

The pill, in all its many kinds, only protects against pregnancy. Many still believe it offers protection against STIs, but this is false. To add to this, other forms of hormonal birth control like rings or patches do not protect against STI. Neither do IUDs.

• The "pull out" method works for avoiding pregnancy and STIs

Whether you are trying to avoid pregnancy or STIs, the pull out method is not effective. In most cases there is the issue of precum to potentially cause pregnancy, and any genital contact can cause the spread of STIs. It is also far too susceptible to human error in the heat of the moment to be reliable.

• Pap smears test for STI

Pap smears are important for sexual health. They, however, check for cervical cancer only and not STIs. Although you should be relieved to get the all clear on your paper smear, it is only one piece of the sexual health puzzle. STI testing is important if you are sexually active.

• You can contract STIs from toilet seats.

The bacteria or viruses that cause STIs cannot live outside the human body for long. STIs are spread through sexual contact only. This includes vaginal oral or anal sex, genital contact, and sharing toys.

• You cannot get STIs from oral sex

Any sexual contact can spread STIs. Herpes especially can be transmitted orally. You do not need to be showing symptoms of STIs to have one or pass it on through oral sex.

• HPV is only seen in women

Biological men can also contract HPV, and it can lead to cancer. It is a good idea to get vaccinated for HPV in your early teens and get tested regularly.

• Double condoms is double protection

This is untrue. Doubling up condoms makes it more likely they will both tear and put you and your partner at risk of pregnancy and STIs.

• You only have an STI if you show symptoms

Many people show no signs of STIs and are able to pass these infections on to a partner. Getting tested with each new sexual partner is the best way to know your status.

• You should only worry about STIs if you have multiple partners

If you are sexually active at all you should get tested with each new partner and regularly even if you have one partner.

• Some penises are too big for condoms

Condoms are amazingly stretchy. They can easily stretch to fit any size penis.

Misconceptions about sex and sexual health abound. Knowing the truth about your own sexual health can be a powerful thing. So take your power back and be proactive about your sexual health.

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