Behavioral habits to help you prevent STDs

Behavioral habits to help you prevent STDs

Sexually transmitted infections are the most common diseases in the US. STDs can affect anyone, but they are most common in sexually active youths and young adults; between the ages of 15-24. 

Most STIs spread through anal, vaginal, or oral sex, but some spread through skin-skin contact. They, therefore, are common in genitalia, but sometimes you can get them in the anus, face, and mouth. 

 Most STDs are asymptomatic- they don’t usually show signs and symptoms, so many people spread these infections to their partners without knowing, especially in the early stages. This has seen a high number of cases of STIs in the US and beyond. Although many online clinics offer faster results for STD testing, many people still don’t yearly go for STD testing, which CDC recommends. 

So the question is, how can you avoid contracting STIs? The surest way to prevent an STI is to abstain from sexual activity. But, if you can’t avoid sex, regular STD testing and good behaviors regarding sexual activities can be in handy. Let’s dive into behavioral habits that can help you and your partner prevent STDS.

Regular STD testing

If you cannot abstain, then the best way to prevent STDs is through regular STD screening. Experts recommend having STD testing annually, but if you have multiple partners, you should do it more often. Knowing your STD status and that of your partner will help you make a rational decision when you want to have sex on whether to use a condom or not.

A monogamous and honest relationship

If you can’t abstain, the best bet to avoid STDs is to be in a monogamous and honest relationship. You should discuss your decision with your partner and the benefits this will bring you. 

But, still, you need to go for regular checkups just in case. 

Avoid sharing towels and underclothes.

Some STDs can spread just through contact with the fluid of an infected person. These fluids can stick in underwear or towel when you share them; you can risk contracting an STI. 

Don’t have sex under the influence of alcohol or any drug

We all know that alcohol and drug abuse impairs our judgment, so you’re advised not to drink and drive. When under the influence, you will not make good decisions, and you might have unprotected sex, which can be risky regarding STDs. 

Wash sex toys before and after use

It is advisable to avoid sharing sex toys, but if you can’t avoid it, ensure that before and after use, you thoroughly wash the sex toys with soap to completely get rid of the body fluids that might remain in these objects. 

Avoid skin-to-skin contact

Some STDs like syphilis and genital herpes spread through skin-to-skin contact, and to avoid contracting such diseases, avoid skin-to-skin contact. 

Conclusion

Knowing how to prevent the spread of STDs is the first step to preventing these contagious infections. And if you are sexually active, you should follow these behavioral habits to help you and your partner avoid STDs.

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