Several STD myths are popular among young adults

Many people, especially adolescents, may have heard false information about what sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are or how people can get them.

In 2008, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that while teenagers between the ages of 15 and 19 years old make up 25 percent of the sexually active population, they also account for nearly half of new STD cases every year.

STDs are not always outwardly noticeable. Neither medical professionals nor sex partners can always tell if a person has an STD without proper testing.

Many teens believe that they cannot contract STDs through oral sex, but the viruses or bacteria that cause STDs can enter the body through tiny cuts or tears in the mouth and anus, as well as the genitals, according to the Nemours Foundation.

Contrary to popular belief, one cannot contract herpes from contact with a toilet seat. Herpes is only shared through skin-to-skin contact, according to the American Social Health Association, and is unable to survive outside of the body on a cold, hard surface.

To help slow the spread of STDs, individuals can utilize safe sex practices and get tested using online testing services.