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 public 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
Public hair, Brazilian waxes, and infection risk
Vaginal health and the microbiome
Why knowing your status makes you a safer partner
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 – Dr. Park’s journey from condom costume to STI expert
07:00 – HPV: The common cold of the genitals
14:00 – Herpes myths, realities, and disclosure strategies
22:00 – Oral sex and STI transmission risks
26:00 – Public hair grooming and infection risk
31:00 – Vaginal microbiome and bacterial balance
36:00 – Listener Q&A: Real STI concerns answered
41:00 – 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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