Sexual health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and practising safe sex is critical to avoiding sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). While sex is a natural part of life, it comes with responsibilities to protect yourself and your partner. Here are some easy-to-follow tips to ensure safe sex and minimise the risk of STDs:
Use protection every time
Condoms are amongst the most effective ways to protect yourself from sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. Always use a new condom for every sexual activity, whether it’s vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Make sure to use condoms correctly and check for tears or expiration dates before use.
Get tested regularly
Regular STD testing is crucial, primarily if you or your partner have multiple sexual partners. Many STDs don’t show symptoms immediately, so testing helps identify infections early and allows for timely treatment. Encourage your partner to get tested as well.
Limit the number of sexual partners
Having several sexual partners increases the risk of contracting STDs. Staying in a monogamous relationship with an individual who has tested negative for STDs is one of the safest ways to lessen your risk.
Communicate openly with your partner
Honest communication with your partner about past infections, sexual health and STD testing is essential. Discuss boundaries, protection methods, and any health concerns before engaging in sexual activity.
Avoid high-risk behaviours
Certain behaviours, like sharing needles or having sex under any influence of alcohol or drugs, can increase the risk of STDs. Avoid situations where decision-making might be impaired, as this could lead to unsafe sexual practices.
Consider vaccinations
Vaccines are available for some STDs, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and hepatitis B. Getting vaccinated may significantly reduce the risk of contracting these infections. Consult a healthcare professional to know more about available vaccines.
Practice good hygiene
Maintaining proper hygiene before, during and after sexual activity can help lessen the risk of infections. Wash your hands and genital areas thoroughly and ensure that sex toys are cleaned properly after each use.
Use dental dams for oral sex
Dental dams are thin, square sheets of latex or polyurethane that act as a barrier during oral sex. It helps protect against the transmission of STDs, including herpes and gonorrhoea.
Know the symptoms of STDs
Educate yourself about common STD symptoms, such as unusual discharge, itching, sores, or pain during urination. If you notice any of the mentioned symptoms, seek medical advice immediately. However, remember that some STDs may not show symptoms at all.
Avoid douche products
Douching can impact the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina, building the risk of infections. To perform safe sex, stick to gentle cleaning methods and avoid harsh products.
Conclusion
Safe sex is about being informed, prepared, and responsible. By following the above tips, you can majorly reduce the risk of STDs while maintaining a healthy and satisfying sexual relationship. Remember, protecting yourself and your partner is a shared responsibility, and seeking medical advice when needed is a vital part of sexual health.
