Ilumistream health
STD Precautions #1: Protecting Against STDs
One out of two sexually active individuals will contract a genital infection during their lives. For this reason a smart preventative approach to sex is vital.
[Alice W. Ko, M.D., Obstetrics & Gynecology, Doctors of the World, John Hopkins]
Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs are consequences of many sexually encounters. The only way that you insure that you do not contract an STD is abstinence. But for many people, cutting out sex is not an option they choose. For this reason some people have sex monogamously with only one partner who may or may not be STD free. Be honest with your partner about your sexual history and ask that he or she is honest with you.
If you do take on a new sexual partner, talk to a doctor about getting tested for STDs before you have sex. You should do this with every new partner or if you suspect a regular partner is engaging in sex outside of your relationship. You can further reduce of contracting an STD by keeping your partners bodily fluids out of your body and asking your partner to do the same.
The male latex condom or the female condom can provide some protection during sexual activity. When used correctly both male and female condoms can reduce the transmission of HIV, Gonorrhea, Syphilis, Chlamydia, and Trichomoniasis. They can also offer the limited protection against other STDs like HPV and Herpes.
In general condoms are more effective at protecting against diseases transmitted through bodily secretions like HIV than those transmitted by skin to skin contact like HPV. But it is important to keep in mind that wearing a condom is like wearing a raincoat on a rainy day. You can still get wet.
For a condom to be effective, it must be put on correctly before any sexual contact is made. Unwrap the package and hold the condom up to the light. Make sure that there are no reaps or tears in the latex. Then unroll the condom over the erect penis to the penis’ base. Leave about half an inch of space in the tip of the condom for semen. Immediately after ejaculation. Hold the condoms rim at the base of the penis and exit your partner.
While the female condom is not as effective as the male condom at preventing STDs, it can be used in people who are allergic to latex. The female condom looks like a tube with two rings, insert the inner ring into the vagina as far as it can go leaving the outer ring outside. After sex, remove the condom before standing up by gently pulling it out of the vagina. Talk to your doctor and your partner about getting tested about STDs and about ways to protect yourselves.
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