Ep 4. Sexpocalypse

As society evolved throughout history, human sexuality played a pivotal role in shaping the world we know today. In the fourth episode of How Sex Changed the World, Sexpocalypse, we explore how sexually transmitted infections (STIs) have impacted human civilization and how we have tried to prevent their spread.

The episode opens with a brief history of syphilis, an STI that ravaged Europe in the 16th century, and how the disease eventually spread to the Americas after Christopher Columbus's arrival. Through interviews with historians and medical experts, we learn about the physical and societal consequences of syphilis, including widespread panic, lost productivity, and a rise in prostitution.

We also delve into the ways people tried to prevent and treat syphilis. The show examines everything from herbal remedies to harsh treatments like mercury, which could cause more harm than good. We learn about the development of antibiotics and the discovery of penicillin, which revolutionized the treatment of STIs and saved countless lives.

However, despite advances in medicine, STIs continue to pose a threat to public health. The episode explores the current state of STI rates in the US, highlighting the uptick in cases of syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia in recent years. We learn about the reasons behind the increase, including decreased funding for public health initiatives and a lack of sex education in schools.

The show also touches on the stigma that still surrounds STIs, with many people feeling ashamed or embarrassed to talk about their experiences. We hear from individuals who have contracted STIs and how they have navigated relationships and sexual health.

The episode ends on a hopeful note, as we learn about new developments in STI prevention, including vaccines and advances in at-home testing. We also see how activists and organizations are working to reduce the stigma surrounding STIs and to make information and resources more widely available.

Overall, Sexpocalypse is a thought-provoking look at how STIs have shaped human history and continue to impact our society today. The episode provides valuable insight into the challenges we face in preventing the spread of STIs and emphasizes the importance of education and destigmatization in improving sexual health.