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and Health
Sexually transmitted infections, or STIs, have become an epidemic in many parts of the world. Millions of people acquire an STI each year, and it is important to learn how to protect yourself and your partner from these diseases in order to stay healthy. Here are some tips for preventing STIs and maintaining your sexual health.
Get Tested Regularly
The only way to know for sure if you are infected with an STI is to get tested regularly. Depending on your sexual activity and other risk factors, you may need to get tested more often. You should also always ask your doctor for a screening for STIs during any physical exams.
Practice Safe Sex
Using condoms during sex can reduce your chances of getting an STI. Make sure they are consistently and correctly used, and never use the same condom more than once. Other methods, such as dental dams and female condoms, provide additional protection. In addition, using an effective birth control method can protect against pregnancy, which can be a side effect of certain STIs.
Avoid Risky Behaviors
Certain activities can increase your risk of getting an STI. These include having unprotected sex, having multiple partners, and using intravenous drugs. Limiting the number of partners you have and avoiding drugs can help reduce your risk.
Get Vaccinated
The best way to protect yourself from STI prevention is to get vaccinated. Vaccines are available for many common STIs, including HPV, hepatitis B, and herpes. Talk to your doctor about which vaccinations are right for you.
Maintain Open Communication
Having honest and open communication with your partner can help you stay responsible with your sexual health. Talk to each other about any past sexual partners, any risk factors, and any changes in sexual health. Knowing more can help you better protect yourself.
Protecting yourself from STIs is incredibly important for your sexual and overall health. Getting tested regularly, practicing safe sex, avoiding risky behaviors, getting vaccinated, and maintaining open communication are all excellent ways to reduce your risks of getting an STI.