SHARE

Sponsored Content

This article is part of a paid Content Partnership with the advertiser, HRHCare Community Health. Daily Voice has no involvement in the writing of the article and the statements and opinions contained in it are solely those of the advertiser.

To learn more about Content Partnerships, click here.

Hrhcare Gives The Lowdown On Sexually Transmitted Infections

Talking about sexually transmitted infections (STIs), sometimes known as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), can often be awkward! But if you are sexually active, knowing the facts about STI prevention is very important to keep you and your partner safe and in good health.

Asma Khan, MD

Asma Khan, MD

Photo Credit: HRHCare Urgent Care

So, let’s get started!

What are STIs?

STIs are infections that are spread through sexual contact. Other than colds and flu, STIs are the most common contagious infections in the United States. Some of the most well-known STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, genital herpes, syphilis and human papillomavirus (HPV).

STIs can cause considerable damage to your body, including death in some extreme cases. Sometimes a person with an STI will not show any symptoms, but his or her health can still be affected. Most STIs can be treated and cured, though some cannot.

STI Risk Factors

The following factors increase the risk of getting an STI:

• Having more than one sexual partner

• Having a partner who has had more than one sexual partner

• Having sex with someone who has an STI

• A previous history of STIs

• Use of intravenous drugs (injected into a vein)

• A partner who uses intravenous drugs

STI Prevention

Fortunately, there are many things you can do to reduce your risk of getting an STI:

• Know your partner’s sexual history, and his or her current STI status.

• Use a latex condom every time you have sex. Having unprotected sex with an infected partner poses a very high risk of getting an STI.

• Avoid any sexual practices that tear or break the skin. Even small cuts that do not bleed can let germs pass back and forth.

• Get immunized! Talk to your provider about vaccinations that help prevent hepatitis B and some types of HPV.

STIs: What You Need to Know

Staying safe when you’re having sex is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Anyone who has sexual contact – vaginal, anal or oral – with another person may get an STI. Knowing your partner’s sexual history is as important as knowing your own. The more partners you have, the higher your risk of getting an STI.

Before having sex with someone, make sure you both get tested for STIs. If there is any question around your or your current partner’s STI status, you should both get tested as soon as possible.

Stay safe, and remember that prevention is the key to a healthier life!

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE