Practicing safe sex is essential—not only to protect yourself but also your partner. In Taichung, a 23-year-old man who believed that “wearing a condom is a male humiliation” developed severe symptoms after having sex with seven girlfriends without protection. He went to Dajia Li General Hospital when his penis showed signs of discoloration, pus, and oozing. Fortunately, doctors confirmed that he did not have a sexually transmitted infection (STI); instead, he was diagnosed with bacterial and fungal infections.
Dr. Huang Pin-Rui, a urologist who treated the patient, explained that the man was stylish, over 170 cm tall, and maintained multiple relationships, but never used condoms. When asked about the risks of unprotected sex, the man reportedly replied, “Wearing a condom is a male humiliation—why should I wear one?”
The man’s condition was serious. Half of the glans and foreskin were inflamed, discolored, and oozing blood-tinged pus, with the infection lasting at least two weeks. After debridement and bacterial cultures, doctors confirmed bacterial and fungal infections, while tests for syphilis, gonorrhea, HIV, and chlamydia were all negative. Due to the severity of the infection, Dr. Huang recommended hospitalization and antibiotic treatment.
Surprisingly, after discharge, the patient asked when he could resume sexual activity, prompting Dr. Huang to warn that engaging in unprotected sex could still result in future STIs.
With the Qixi Festival (Chinese Valentine’s Day) around the corner, the Ministry of Health and Welfare also reminded the public to insist on full use of condoms during sexual activity, preferably with water-based lubricants, to protect against infections. They recommend at least one HIV test for anyone sexually active, and for those engaging in unprotected sex or at higher risk—such as with multiple partners, sharing needles, or using addictive substances—screening every 3–6 months is advised to monitor and safeguard one’s health.
