Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can be life-altering. Even without sexual intercourse, it’s possible to contract and spread many of them. Understanding what the most common ones are and how to prevent them can make it easier to focus on your sexual health and stay safe in your sex life.
Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea has been around for centuries, more than 700,000 people contract it each year in the United States. The bacterium affects the mucus membrane of the reproductive tract. Many men and women are asymptomatic, but genital discharge may occur. Because it’s possible for someone to not even know they have gonorrhea, testing is crucial to protect your health whenever you engage with a new partner or multiple partners.
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is a bacteria that can cause a burning sensation during urination and possible genital discharge. STD testing is one of the easiest ways to identify its presence, so you can receive treatment. The CDC recommends sexually active women 24 and younger should be screened every year.
Herpes
Herpes is considered to be one of the more contagious STDs, and there are two viral strains that can cause an outbreak. Whether it’s HSV-1 or HSV-2, it can be transmitted through sexual acts and kissing. Cold sores, fever blisters, and genital sores are common with an outbreak.
Syphilis
Syphilis is passed through coming into direct contact with a chancre (a syphilis sore). Often, the sores go unnoticed until they advance to infection. If left untreated, the disease can affect skin, joints, blood vessels, and more. It can be spread through kissing when someone has visible sores.
HIV
HIV is spread through bodily fluids, so the best way to prevent its spread is to undergo STD testing before engaging in oral sex or intercourse with a new partner. HIV is not spread through kissing, but avoid intimacy if you or your partner have any cuts or open sores in your mouth.
Preventing STDs
A good rule is to get tested for STDs before engaging with a new sexual partner and asking for them to do the same. This will allow you to protect your health. Remember, it’s okay to have boundaries around your sex life, even if someone else doesn’t share the same ones.
You should also always use protection when engaging in physical intimacy with a partner if you don’t know their sexual history. Remember that only condoms reduce the risk of STDs, not birth control.
Take The Lead in Your Sexual Health
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