3 Sexual Health Practices To Keep You Free From STDs

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that are transmitted from person to person through sexual contact. Every person is at risk of contracting an STD as long as they have had sexual intercourse with another person, regardless of the gender of the partner. However, there are some practices that can help to reduce the risks of contracting STDs. These practices are recommended by medical practitioners at STD clinics in Singapore and will definitely help reduce your worries of contracting an STD. Here are three sexual health practices that will help keep you free from STDs.

Always wear protection

For any sexual activity involving penetration, wearing a condom is the most important step in protecting yourself from STDs. A condom provides a physical barrier that prevents sexual fluids from transferring between partners, which means that no diseases can transfer should a condom be used correctly. However, a condom is not a 100% failsafe against STDs. Condoms can break due to the friction of sexual intercourse. Condoms can also be used incorrectly. To ensure the best condom usage, check the expiry date before wearing the condom and ensure that it is worn on the correct side. Then, use plenty of lubrication to reduce the friction on the condom. Never wear two condoms at once. With proper condom usage, the likelihood of contracting an STD is almost negligible. Using a condom is a safe and affordable way of preventing STDs.

Avoid the use of alcohol and drugs

Having sexual intercourse while drunk or after taking drugs is extremely dangerous to your sexual health. When under the influence of such substances, you may be unable to make decisions to protect yourself from STDs, such as properly putting on a condom before engaging in sexual activities. Sex may also be much less pleasant and it becomes harder to communicate with your partner while having sex. If at all possible, steer away from substances that can impair your judgement whenever you intend on having sex. That way, you will never make a mistake that could result in contracting an STD.

Understand your partner’s sexual history

Sex comes from many different experiences, from one-night stands to sex between monogamous couples. The risks of contracting an STD will thus vary depending on the parties’ various sexual histories. If someone has had more sex with more people, then that person is more likely to have contracted an STD. Speaking to your sexual partner and understanding their past sexual history will be able to help you evaluate whether you want to proceed with the sexual activity. It may also be wise to go for an STD testing in Singapore together before having sex, as that can form the foundation for a long-lasting and trusting relationship.

Conclusion

Follow these three tips and your risks of contracting an STD can be lowered significantly. If you think you may have contracted an STD, please do visit an HIV clinic in Singapore within 24 hours after the exposure. For more information, do contact Elyon Clinic at 6802 7208.