Here's how you can prevent catching Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Infections spread during sexual acts are known as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Although there's no sure shot way to avoid catching STIs/STDs, following simple sexual health precautions while engaging in sexual activity can ensure safety for you and your partner. Among other infections, these include herpes, gonorrhea, and HIV. Here, find out more about STIs and how you can help yourself prevent catching these.
What are Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)?
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are contagious infections, spread through sexual contact. STIs are known to severely damage the body, and in rare cases- may lead to death. Notably, some of the STIs can be treated, while others can't.
How are STIs transmitted?
A person suffering from Sexually Transmitted Infection can pass it to another person by contact through skin, genitals, mouth, rectum, and body fluids, during sexual activities- vaginal, anal, or oral sex. STIs may or may not show any symptoms, depending on the type of infection.
How to reduce risk of STIs before engaging in sexual-acts
In order to reduce the risk of catching STIs, here are some general tips: 1) Limit your number of sexual partners. 2) Openly communicate with your partners about your and their sexual health histories. 3) Get tested, and make your partner get tested as well. 4) Get vaccinated against HPV and HBV. 5) Avoid engaging in sexual activity, under influence of alcohol or drugs.
How to practise safe sex
To practise safer sex, always use a latex or polyurethane-based condom during all forms of sexual activity, whether anal, vaginal, or oral. Apart, engaging in risky sexual practices, that may lead to skin tears or cuts, should be avoided. Anal sex is an example. Furthermore, cleansing and rinsing off the bodies after sex is also advised. Women must urinate post-sex to reduce UTI risk.
