Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are sometimes called Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). STDs are passed from person to person through bodily fluids, including fluids expelled during sexual intercourse. Common types of STDs include herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). PMS makes sufferers uncomfortable and can have serious effects on long-term health, even some types of STDs can cause death. However, there are steps you can take to drastically reduce your chances of contracting an STD. You can physically protect yourself if you have safe sex.
Step
Part 1 of 4: Be Careful in Choosing a Sexual Partner
Step 1. Try to resist sexual desire
The surest way to avoid STDs is not to have sex. Sexual activity here includes vaginal sex, oral sex, and anal sex.
- Refraining from lust is the most appropriate option for unmarried people, but some people find this option unrealistic or undesirable. If you are sexually active, there are many ways to reduce your risk of infection.
- Keep in mind that abstinence is usually less effective than more comprehensive forms of sex education. Even if you're not currently married, you still need to educate yourself about safe sex practices in preparation.
Step 2. Try to be monogamous
The safest sexual activities are those with only one person. Make sure that you and your partner have had an STD test before having sex. If you and your partner are uninfected and are both faithful to one partner, the risk of infection is very low.
Step 3. Consider having few sex partners, if for some reason monogamy is not your thing
The fewer sex partners you have, the lower your risk of contracting an STD. You may also want to consider whether your sex partner has a partner other than you. The fewer sex partners you have, the lower your risk of contracting an STD.
Step 4. Have sex with a partner who has undergone the test
Before having sex with someone, make sure he or she has had a thorough STD check with a doctor. Most STDs can be tested, and many are treatable. If your partner is positive for STDs, don't have sex until treatment is complete. You can resume sexual intercourse after your doctor confirms it is safe.
Be aware that genital herpes cannot be tested for and that the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) cannot be tested in men
Step 5. Ask your partner about their sexual health
Communication is key to protecting yourself from STDs. Share your health and sexual history openly, and make sure your partner does the same. Don't have sex with people who are uncommunicative or angry if you bring them up to discuss sexual health. Safe sex requires the consent of both parties.
Step 6. Maintain full awareness during sexual activity
Drinking alcohol reduces self-control. This can lead you to make bad decisions, such as not using a shield, which you wouldn't have done if you were sober. Alcohol and drugs also increase the risk of condom breakage because you are less likely to use them correctly. Make sure you are conscious enough to make healthy choices during sex.
Step 7. Stay away from drugs
Drugs, like alcohol, can reduce self-control and lead to bad decisions or condom breakage. Injecting drugs can also spread certain STDs because body fluids are exchanged when needles are shared.
AIDS and hepatitis have been shown to be spread through the use of the same needle
Step 8. Establish safe sex rules with your partner
Before having sex, make sure you and your partner agree on safe sex practices. If you only want to have sex with condoms, make it clear to your partner. You and your partner should be both supportive in trying to stay healthy in a sexual relationship.
Step 9. Don't have sex with a partner who has PMS symptoms
Some types of STDs, such as genital herpes, tend to spread when symptoms appear. If your partner has open sores, rashes, or discharge, he or she may have STDs and the STDs are more likely to spread. If you see anything suspicious, hold back until your partner is treated by a doctor.
Part 2 of 4: Having Sex with a Protector
Step 1. Recognize that all forms of sex carry a risk of STDs
Vaginal, oral, and anal sex can spread STDs. Although oral sex with a condom has the lowest risk of all sexual activity, no sex is 100% "safe". But you can protect yourself to significantly reduce your risk of STDs.
Step 2. Recognize that existing forms of protection are not fully effective
Certain types of protection such as male condoms, female condoms, and dental dams can greatly reduce the risk of STD infection. However, the risk is still there even if it is very small. Consult a doctor if you have any questions about the effectiveness of the shield.
Step 3. Recognize the difference between pregnancy control and STD prevention
Some forms of STD prevention can also prevent pregnancy, such as the male condom. However, there are many types of birth control that have no effect on STD transmission. Keep in mind that birth control that doesn't restrict contact, such as birth control pills, IUDs, or spermicides, will not prevent STD transmission.
Step 4. Purchase a latex condom that says "disease protection" on the package
Most condoms are made of latex and are effective at preventing STDs. However, there are several types of condoms that are usually labeled "natural" made of other materials, such as sheepskin. These non-latex condoms may prevent pregnancy, but do not prevent STD transmission. To be safe, make sure you buy a condom that explicitly states "disease protection" on the packaging.
Step 5. Use condoms correctly and consistently
Condoms are very effective and reliable as long as they are used correctly. Condoms can be purchased at most drug and grocery stores, sex supply stores, or are available free of charge at some hospitals and clinics. Use a condom every time you have sex because condoms can only prevent disease if used consistently.
- The male condom is used on the penis and must be worn before penetration. Male condoms can be used for vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Carefully unpack (do not use teeth or scissors), position it with the coiled side facing opposite you, grasp the end, and carefully unroll it. Check it for holes or tears, and if you think the condom will tear, remove it immediately. Also use lubricant so that the condom does not tear due to friction. When you have finished intercourse, remove the penis (holding the condom still in place) before the erection stops and carefully dispose of the condom. Never use a condom that has been used again.
- There are also female condoms. The female condom can be inserted before a woman's penetration into her vagina, just below the cervix. The female condom is inserted like inserting a tampon. You may find it difficult to find female condoms, but they are usually available in hospitals and clinics. Female condoms are made of latex or polyurethane material. These condoms are especially useful for women who want to take responsibility for controlling their pregnancy or preventing STDs. Polyurethane condoms can be used by women who are allergic to latex or who wish to use an oil-based lubricant.
Step 6. Use one condom for one intercourse
Never use a "double" condom. For example, men should not use more than one condom. And male condoms and female condoms should not be used at the same time during intercourse. Using more than one condom during sex increases the chances of the condom breaking or leaking so it's no safer than using one condom correctly.
Step 7. Make sure the condom you are using has not expired
Check the expiration date on the condom packaging. Only use condoms that have not expired as expired condoms are more likely to break when used.
Step 8. Do not store condoms in hot or sunny places
Condoms are less likely to break if stored in a cool, dry place such as a cupboard drawer. Condoms stored in hot or sunny places such as cars or purses should be changed frequently to ensure they don't tear when used.
Step 9. Use a dental dam
Dental dam is a latex that is used to protect against STDs such as herpes during oral sex on the female genitalia or anus. Dental dams help protect vulnerable oral tissues from infection. Dental dams can be purchased at places that also sell condoms. If you don't have one, in an emergency you can also use microwave-safe plastic wrap or snip the condom open.
Step 10. Wear medical gloves
Wear latex gloves when doing hand stimulation. This will protect you and your partner if you have a cut on your hand that you're not aware of, as it could carry an infection. Latex gloves can also be made into dental dams.
Step 11. Use protection on all sexual aids
In addition to the protection above, also use protection on all sexual aids that you share with other people, such as dildos and others. Many STDs are transmitted through unhygienic sexual aids. Clean and disinfect sexual aids after each use. Condoms can also be used on dildos and vibrators. Use a new, still sealed condom each time. Many sexual aids also provide cleansing instructions that you can follow.
Step 12. Do not use oil-based lubricants on latex products
Oil-based lubricants such as mineral oil or petroleum jelly can tear condoms and latex dental dams and damage them. Therefore, only use water-based lubricants. Most lubricants state on the packaging whether they can be used with condoms or dental dams.
Some condoms are equipped with lubricant
Part 3 of 4: Undergoing Preventive Medical Treatment
Step 1. Get vaccinated
There are vaccinations available for several sexually transmitted diseases. For example, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Talk to your doctor about getting you and your child vaccinated at the recommended age to protect sexual health.
Infants are recommended to receive hepatitis A and B vaccines and children aged 11 or 12 years are recommended to receive the HPV vaccine. However, adults who have never received a vaccination can consult a doctor to receive the vaccine
Step 2. Consider getting circumcised if you haven't already
Studies show that circumcised men have a lower risk of contracting STDs, including HIV infection. If you are a man at high risk of contracting an STD, consider circumcision to reduce the chance of infection.
Step 3. Take Truvada if you are at high risk of contracting HIV
Truvada is a new drug that helps reduce the chances of contracting HIV. If you fall into a high-risk group for HIV, talk to your doctor about Truvada. For example, Truvada can help protect the health of a person whose partner is HIV positive or a sex worker.
Note that taking Truvada alone is not sufficient to prevent HIV infection. Always use a condom when having sex with an HIV-positive partner, even if you are also taking Truvada
Step 4. Avoid using douches
Douches (chemicals and soaps used to wash the inside of the vagina) can kill bacteria which helps prevent the spread of STDs. The bacteria in the mucous membranes act as protection against STDs and you need to keep those good bacteria healthy.
Part 4 of 4: Taking Tests Regularly
Step 1. Recognize the common PMS symptoms
Not all STDs show symptoms. However, there are some indicators that you or your partner may have an STD and should see a doctor. Common symptoms include:
- Sores and lumps around the vagina, penis, or rectum.
- Pain when urinating.
- Pain during sex.
- Unusual or foul-smelling discharge from the vagina or penis.
- Vaginal bleeding is not uncommon.
Step 2. Know that most STDs are treatable
Don't avoid your doctor if you're worried about contracting an STD. Many STDs can be treated and even completely cured, if detected early. Be honest and open with your doctor, and ask about appropriate treatment options.
Step 3. Determine if you fall into a high-risk group
While everyone should get tested regularly to check for possible STDs, there are certain demographic groups that should be tested more frequently. The group includes:
- Pregnant women or women trying to get pregnant.
- People who have HIV. People with HIV are more susceptible to contracting other STDs.
- People who have sex with partners who are HIV positive.
- Men who have sex with other men.
- Sexually active women under the age of 25. This group should have more frequent chlamydia testing.
- Sexually active women over the age of 21 need an HPV test.
- People born between 1945 and 1965 have a higher risk of contracting hepatitis C.
- Other high-risk groups are people who have more than one partner, have one partner who sleeps with more than one person, use prostitution, use certain drugs, have unprotected sex, have a history of STDs or STIs, or were born from parents who suffer from certain STDs.
Step 4. Take regular tests
Get tested every 3–6 months if you are at high risk and every 1–3 years if you are at low risk. Everyone who is sexually active is at risk, so even if you're monogamous, it's a good idea to get tested every few years. By protecting yourself and addressing the problem before it spreads to others, you help reduce the spread of STDs in the population as a whole. You protect everyone by protecting yourself.
- Tests become even more important when you have a new sexual partner.
- Tests available are tests for HIV, syphilis, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and hepatitis B.
Step 5. Provide samples of blood, urine, and vaginal fluids
Doctors usually do a PMS test with a physical exam and test your blood and urine. If your genitals are sore or have discharge, the fluid may also be tested.
Step 6. Ask your partner to take the test
Encourage your partner to get tested too. Emphasize that this is the best decision for both of you to stay safe. It's not that you don't trust him or that you can't be trusted either. It just means smart decisions.
Step 7. Look for free services if you need them
If you can't afford a checkup or don't have health insurance, seek out a free screening service if you're worried you've been infected with an STD. There are many places that provide free test services. You can consult to find a free test service in the following places:
- Local Health Department or Office
- School or house of worship
- Community clinic
- Internet
- local hospital
Step 8. Don't be shy
There's no need to feel embarrassed about getting checked out for PMS. This is a good, smart and healthy decision for both you and those around you. If everyone had regular tests, the spread of STDs would be much less. You should be proud to have done something to protect society.
Step 9. Be aware that not all STDs can be tested
For example, genital herpes and HPV in men cannot be tested. Even if your doctor confirms that you are healthy, you should still use a condom when having sex.
Step 10. Follow the doctor's instructions
If your doctor says it's not safe for you to have sex, follow the instructions. For example, people who have genital herpes should not have sex when herpes appears. Continue sex only when the doctor says it is safe.
Step 11. Tell the results of the diagnosis to the partner
If an STD test reveals an infection, tell your current and ex-spouse to have them tested too. If you don't want to share this privately, there are some clinics that provide anonymous services to convey this kind of information.
Warning
- Check condoms before use. Install it properly and use a water-based lubricant. Condoms are very effective but only when used properly.
- Even if you are proficient at using protection, you are still at risk of contracting STDs.
- Types of birth control that don't block contact like birth control pills or IUDs can't protect you from STDs and STIs. If you are at risk of infection, use condoms or other methods of protection in addition to birth control pills.
- Some people are allergic to latex. Check before you use a latex protector for the first time. If you or your partner are allergic to latex, there are other protective options you can use. More and more non-latex protection methods are now available. Even if they are not available, try to avoid behaviors that increase the likelihood of disease transmission until alternatives are found.
- Keep in mind that not all STDs show symptoms. You or your partner may not be aware of an STD. Consult your doctor if you are concerned about the possibility of being exposed to STDs even if you feel fine.
