What Are STIs and How to Protect Yourself?

Sex education in school is apparently improving as the curriculum now includes more topics other than simply how babies are made, which was the most I learnt about sex at school. Unfortunately, most adults are ignorant as to what STIs really are and how to prevent them, yet the likelihood of them already having one without knowing it and getting infected in the future is high. It is never too late to educate yourself, so read on to find out what STIs are and how to protect yourself.

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Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are infections that are spread through sexual contact. These infections are extremely common because they spread very easily. Some STIs can be treated but some cannot be cured, meaning prevention is key.

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There are a number ways you can reduce your risk of getting an infection such as getting to know your sexual partners. Speak about your history of STIs, drug use and past sexual partners. The best way to be sure about both of your STI status, is to get tested. Fortunately, you can now get tested discreetly at your home with services that send Chlamydia Testing kits Bexley to your home.

The best way to protect yourself from STIs is to always use a condom whether it is oral, vaginal or anal sex. It is also important to know that certain types of sex are riskier than others. A sexual act that tears or breaks the skin increase your risk of being infected. Anal sex is the riskiest as tissues in the rectum break easily. Body fluids can carry STIs making any form of unprotected sexual contact with someone who is infected risky.

Lastly, you can get vaccines to protect you against hepatitis B and human papillomavirus (HPV).