Sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, are diseases that can be transmitted through sexual contact with another individual. It is similar to how the common cold can be transmitted through air particles – which is why you should always cover your mouth when you sneeze. However, with STDs, preventing transmission isn’t as easy, and may require multiple steps to ensure that you are always in the pink of your sexual health. This is especially true if you are sexually active and/or have multiple sexual partners. Here are three tips on how to prevent yourself from contracting STDs.
1. Know your STDs
Before a war, you must first study and know your enemies. The constant fight against STDs is similar. Before engaging in sexual activity, you should first arm yourself with the knowledge of different STDs, so you can gauge for yourself the risks you would be taking in each sexual encounter. This is important because STDs have different modes of transmission – some can be transmitted only through penetrative sex or contact with bodily fluids (HIV), while others can be transmitted through oral sex (gonorrhea, herpes or syphilis).
Each STD also has different methods of treatment, and show different symptoms. However, many will show symptoms in the genital area. Herpes, for example, will likely cause rashes and itches in the groin area, while syphilis can produce sores in the nether regions and the mouth. HIV-infected individuals may not even experience symptoms when they first get infected, other than a burning fever.
Ensuring that you understand the different STDs and their symptoms will help you be more wary of the possible risks, especially when you have a sexual encounter with a new partner.
2. Always have a condom with you
While STDs may all be different, one trait binds them all together – that they are transmitted through sexual contact. If sex is unavoidable, always ensure that there is some level of protection during the act. This is why a condom is an absolute essential whenever you have sex.
A condom is essentially a piece of rubber serves as a layer of protection and a barrier against direct sexual contact. It is worn over the penis before penetrative sex. Besides the typical function of serving as protection against pregnancy, a condom also ensures that bodily fluids such as seminal and vaginal fluids do not enter their partner, preventing the possible transfer of viruses.
While a condom is typically not worn when oral sex is performed, wearing a condom does help to reduce the risk of some STDs that can be transmitted through oral sex. It is recommended that a condom is worn if possible.
3. Get vaccinated
Advancements in medical technology has helped to develop vaccines for some STDs – namely HPV, Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B. Getting vaccinated for these STDs is extremely vital to your sexual health, as contracting these viruses can develop life-threatening complications such as cervical cancer and liver failure.
Do check your previous vaccination history to see if you have been previously vaccinated for these STDs. If not, you can get a vaccination at any STD clinic in Singapore.
