In Singapore, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are often still surrounded in mystery. While the internet and other resources are available for anyone to learn about STDs, some Singaporeans are still ill-informed about STDs, especially since it is a topic that will definitely not appear in the dinner table conversation of a conservative Asian family. It is tough for the parents of Singaporean teenagers to educate their children on the subject as they may not understand STDs themselves. Many Singaporeans thus have questions regarding STDs. As a trusted std clinic in singapore, our doctors receive many questions and queries during clinic consultations. Here are a few of the most common questions STDs, specifically about how they transfer and what methods are effective in preventing STDs.
Are STDs only transferred when there is penetrative sex (vaginal/anal sex)?
No. Many Singaporeans have the preconceived notion that STDs would not be transferred if they only have oral sex. However, there are quite a few STDs that can be transferred from person to person through oral sex. These include: gonorrhea, herpes (especially when sores are present in the mouth or throat) and syphilis. Abstaining from vaginal/anal sex only is not a foolproof method in preventing STDs. This also means that you should still have std testing in Singapore even if you’ve only had oral sex.
My boyfriend and I were having unprotected sex but we stopped before he reached orgasm. How likely am I to have contracted an STD from him?
STDs can be transferred from person to person via sexual fluids. This includes vaginal fluids, seminal fluids, but also pre-seminal fluids, i.e. the fluids that are released from the penis prior to ejaculation. When having unprotected intercourse, pre-seminal fluids can be transferred from person to person, thus causing the STD to also transfer.
Is there any surefire way to prevent getting infected with an STD?
The only way to prevent an STD is to abstain from sex altogether. Even with contraceptive methods, such as condoms, there is still a slim chance that you may contract an STD. If abstinence is not possible, we recommend getting an STD test in Singapore approximately once every 6 months, in order to ensure that you do not have any STDs. In the meantime, remember to always put on condoms when having sex, and get vaccinated for STDs such as Hepatitis A and B.
Is it possible to contract an STD despite not having vaginal, anal or oral sex?
Yes, it is. Some STDs can spread by way of coming into direct contact with sores (herpes and syphilis) or through the transfer of blood (HIV). This means that even if you and your partner are only performing sexual acts involving only the hands, such as mutual masturbation, you may still come into contact with an STD. However, the chances are extremely slim as long as you do not spot anything strange about your partner’s private parts.
Also, remember to wash your hands before and after sex, to ensure they are completely clean before you perform other activities such as eating.
