When it comes to sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), prevention is key. If you or your partner has an STD, it's important to talk about it and take steps to protect yourselves. Here are some tips on how to have a productive conversation with your partner and practice safe sex.If you and your partner decide to have sex, it's essential to use condoms and practice safe sex. Condoms are the only way to protect yourself and your partner from STDs when you have vaginal or anal sex.
Using condoms on the penis or other barriers (such as a dental barrier) on the vulva or anus also makes oral sex safer. You should not have sex again until you and your sexual partner have completed treatment. If you are given a single dose of medication, you should wait seven days after taking the medication before having sex. If you are given medicines for seven days, wait until you finish all the doses before having sex. It's also important to keep in mind that some STDs can be transmitted through non-sexual contact, such as using medicines intravenously or passing them from mother to baby during delivery. When it comes to talking to your partner about an STD, it's important to be open and honest.
The most helpful thing you can do is to listen to your partner's concerns and fears and offer them information about the STD. It's also important to remember that a person who knows they have an STD is more likely to know their sexual health. That's why doctors recommend that people who have sex (or who have had sex in the past) get tested for sexually transmitted diseases. Notify your partner(s) immediately so that they can see a doctor for testing and treatment, if needed. If you think you have an STD or have questions about STDs, talk to a doctor, sexual health clinic, or student health center.
