Blue waffle disease is an internet hoax. Some claim it is a sexually transmitted infection that turns the vaginal area blue.
We will uncover the myth behind the internet hoax – “Blue waffle ” which has been said to be a sexually transmitted infection. Read on!
Myth Behind Blue Waffle
The concept of “blue waffle disease” is a fabrication. Despite the presence of photographic depictions depicting a blue-tinted vulva, there is no actual infection of this nature.
The people who disseminated this misinformation also assert that “blue waffle disease” leads to additional symptoms like vaginal itching, irritation, and abnormal discharge.
In 2018, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) documented 26 million new infections.
The organization highlights that individuals between 15 and 24 comprised nearly half of these infections.
Bacteria, viruses, or parasites have the potential to lead to STIs, a category encompassing over 20 distinct types as recognized by healthcare experts. Sexually active individuals can get an STI, but the notion of “blue waffle disease” is baseless.
The image that is often associated with blue waffle disease is actually a photoshopped image of a labia that has been infected with a real STI.
STIs With Similar Symptoms to Blue Waffle
Frequent sex is a natural and healthy part of life, but some sexual practices may cause discomfort.
While the vagina naturally generates lubrication, excessive sexual activity can result in vaginal dryness, which can cause discomfort due to increased friction during intercourse.
Aggressive sexual activity may lead to vaginal swelling and potentially tearing vaginal tissue, increasing the risk of developing vaginal infections due to cuts or tears.
The signs of certain genuine vaginal infections resemble the symptoms linked to the imaginary blue waffle disease. The Office on Women’s HealthTrusted Source Indicates that signs of a vaginal infection encompass:
- Unusual and smelly vaginal discharge.
- Swelling, itching, burning, and around the vagina.
- a burning sensation when urinating
- pains during sex
Read also: Blue Toilet Seat Pregnancy
Who Needs STI Testing?
Sexually active people would likely benefit from STI testing. It’s especially important if:
- You’re starting a sexual relationship with a new partner.
- You and a partner are about to start having sex without a condom or other barrier contraceptive methods.
- You regularly have sex with multiple partners.
- Your partner has had sex outside of the relationship or has multiple partners.
- You’re experiencing symptoms that might indicate the presence of an STI.
People in monogamous, long-term relationships may not need STI testing if they underwent screening before their relationship started.
However, many people don’t get screened. It’s important to rule out any STIs that do not produce obvious symptoms before they develop into more harmful complications.
STIs You Should Test For:
Seek a healthcare professional’s advice about the STIs for which testing would benefit you. Everyone has different sexual circumstances, and it’s best not to have too many concerns about STIs you’re unlikely to have.
A physician or healthcare professional might recommend testing that identifies the following:
- chlamydia>
- trichomoniasis
- gonorrhea
- HPV
- HIV
- hepatitis B>
- syphilis
Frequently Asked Questions
What is blue waffle disease?
It is a fictional STI that spread around the internet as a hoax. Proponents claimed it could give the vagina a blue tint and cause disfigurement.
How can I get blue waffle disease?
You can’t because it’s not real.
How do I know I have blue waffle disease?
You can be sure you don’t, as it’s entirely fictional.
Don’t dismiss all physical changes to your genitals, though, because they could be symptoms of a real STI. Redness and irritation, alongside itching and discharge with an odor, might result from vaginitis.
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Conclusion
Blue waffle disease does not exist. It is not an STI, and your genitals will not turn blue if you have sex.
However, if you notice changes on your genitals, such as bumps, sores, or discharge, see your healthcare provider. Symptoms like these could very well suggest an STI in need of testing and treatment.