Preventing STDs

There are still a number of common misconceptions about STDs. While vaginal and anal sex are the highest-risk sexual activities, it’s also possible to contract an STD through oral sex and touching an infected area. You can also contract an STD by sharing needles.

How can you protect yourself against diseases like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and HIV? Regular check-ups are always a wise choice. So is a barrier method of contraception.

Do keep the following in mind:

• Enjoy the parties you go to, but avoid having sex while partying. Your judgment may be impaired.

• A person may not have any outward signs of having an STD, but not all diseases will be visible to the eye.

• STDs don’t discriminate. That means a person can be well-presented and can still carry a sexually transmittable disease.

• Remember STDs can affect long-term health and the ability to conceive.

• Keep an open channel of communication with your partner. Always talk protection before sex.

Women sometimes feel pressured to give in to their partner’s sexual demands. But this is your body – it’s your right to be protected.