4 safe sex practices to help avoid STDs

Simply put, having any type of sex introduces the risk of STDs.

However, the good news is that there are plenty of ways that you can be sexual and stay safe! In this blog we discuss the top 4 ways that you can reduce your risk of contracting an STD.

What Is Safe Sex?

Safe sex is a term when two (or more) people take specific precautions during sexual acitivites to reduce the risk of passing on or contracting sexually transmitted diseases or infections (STDs/STIs). 

How do you get STDs?

Sexually transmitted diseases are passed from person to person during any form of oral, anal or vaginal sex. In fact, there are lots of different STDS; some are carried in bodily fluids such as semen, vaginal fluids and your blood whereas others can be transmitted just through skin contact. 

Here are 4 ways that you can reduce your risk of getting infected with an STD:

1. Wear a condom

The best and most obvious safe sex practice to avoid STDs is to wear a condom. By using a condom correctly during sex, you effectivley reduce your risk of contracting an STD.  Although using a condom will not compleltley rule out contracting anything, it is always a good idea to wear one, especially if you do not know your partner’s sexual history. There are various options available, including latex and non-latex condoms, however it's important to note that synthetic non-latex condoms have a higher tendency to break. 

2. Limit number of sexual partners

Although it may seem pretty obvious, it’s definitely important to mention. Limiting the number of sexual partners you have considerbaly reduces the risk of getting an STD. However, limiting the number of sex partners may not suit everyobdys sex life, and there are other ways to protect yourself such as getting tested regulalry and encouraging the same for your partners.

3. Honest communication

This can be awkward for many people, but communicating openly with your partner about your sexual past is an important step in reducing your risk of an STD. It’s easier said than done, but being honest with your sexual partners about your past and any test results can be a really important safe sex praxctice.

4. Maintain good hygiene before and after sex

STDs are most commonly spread via sexual contact and through bodily fluids. And as mentioned, wearing a condom is probably the most practical way to avoid contracting an STD, but maintaining good hygiene can further decrease your risk.

Washing your hands before engaging in any sexual activity and doing the same after sex, may help prevent you contracting any sexually transmitted diseases. It’s also recommended to urinate after sex, as it helps to flush out any bacteria that is in your body, thus reduces your risk of an STD. Little things such as using your own towels and not sharing underwear can definitely help with prevention too.