Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common — so common that millions of Americans are diagnosed with new infections every year. Fortunately, most STDs can be effectively treated with medications, especially when caught early. But ideally, you want to do all you can to prevent infections in the first place.
As a leading provider of primary care, gynecological care, and HIV prevention therapies, Harbor Community Health Centers prioritizes sexual health and wellness, helping patients of all ages and all walks of life lead satisfying, fulfilling lives without compromising their health. Here, our team offers some real-life, practical tips to help you reduce your risk of STD infection.
They may not be the most popular birth control option, but when it comes to preventing STDs, they’re definitely one of the most effective. When used correctly — and consistently — condoms provide a barrier that significantly reduces exposure to the germs that cause STDs.
Plus, condoms are small, easy to carry, easy to use, and versatile enough to be used for different types of sexual activity. As noted, though, consistency is key — you can’t “skip” wearing a condom and expect the same level of protection against infections. Making condom use a habit every time you have sex is a powerful way to stay healthy for both you and your partner.
It makes sense: The more partners you have, the greater your chances of being exposed to an STD. Like condom use, limiting the number of sexual partners can be a powerful way to prevent infections.
While sexual freedom might sound appealing, it can definitely come with a lot of stress. Focusing on high-quality relationships helps build deep trust, increasing the likelihood that both partners will be committed to protecting each other’s sexual wellness in the long term.
Talking about sexual health can feel a little awkward, especially at the beginning of a relationship. But open communication is a vital part of staying healthy and preventing STDs — and from that angle, there’s a good chance your partner will be just as open and appreciative as you are.
Being upfront and open about sex helps set boundaries and establish best practices for STD prevention. When both partners are on the same page, it eliminates a lot of anxiety and makes it easier to maintain safe practices over time. And, of course, open communication supports healthier relationships in many other ways as well.
Some STDs, like HPV (human papillomavirus) and hepatitis B, can be prevented through vaccination. Considering a vaccine only takes a few moments, getting vaccinated is definitely one of the most straightforward steps you can take to prevent specific infections.
HPV vaccination, for example, drastically reduces your risk of certain types of cancer associated with HPV infection, while a hepatitis vaccine can help you avoid life-threatening liver failure.
STD testing is quick and straightforward — and it’s also one of the best ways to track your sexual health. While it may not prevent STD infection, it definitely raises your awareness, and it can help motivate you to take the other steps on this list as well.
STD testing methods differ based on the type of infection, your symptoms, your sexual activity, and other factors. Many tests use blood samples, but others may use a urine sample or a tiny sample of tissue or discharge for further analysis.
Having a drink or indulging in other substances might seem like a great way to relax before sex, especially if you want to feel less inhibited. But lowered inhibition can lead to rash decisions and poor planning — which in turn can lead to STD infection.
It’s always a good idea to limit or avoid substance use at any time, but it’s especially critical before sex. If there’s a chance you’ll wind up having sex, limit yourself to one drink and avoid other substances to preserve your decision-making ability — and your health and safety, too.
Preventing STD infection doesn’t mean avoiding intimacy or living like a monk. It means choosing practices that protect your health while allowing you to enjoy your relationships.
By making prevention part of your everyday choices, you can take control of your sexual health and your emotional wellness, too. To learn more about STD prevention or to schedule an STD test, call 310-547-0202 to request an appointment with the Harbor Community Health Centers team at one of our two locations in San Pedro, California, today.
