Infection Prevention Guide
Essential protocols and protective solutions for safer intimate encounters and health maintenance
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STI Protection
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STI Protection FAQs
Answers to essential questions about preventing sexually transmitted infections and practicing safer intimacy
What are the most effective STI prevention methods?
The most reliable STI prevention strategies include:
- Barrier Protection: Consistent and correct use of condoms (male/female) and dental dams
- Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP): Daily medication for HIV prevention
- Vaccinations: HPV and Hepatitis B vaccines
- Regular Testing: Comprehensive STI screenings every 3-6 months for sexually active individuals
- Mutual Monogamy: With partners who have tested negative
How often should I get tested for STIs?
Testing frequency depends on your sexual activity:
- Every 3-6 months: If you have multiple partners or engage in higher-risk behaviors
- Before new partners: Mutual testing before initiating sexual contact
- After unprotected sex: Especially with partners of unknown STI status
- Annually: For all sexually active individuals regardless of risk factors
"Approximately 1 in 5 people in the U.S. have an STI at any given time, yet many infections show no symptoms initially. Regular screening is critical for early detection." - CDC Report
Can STIs be transmitted through oral sex?
Yes, multiple STIs can spread through oral-genital contact:
- Herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2)
- Gonorrhea and Chlamydia (throat infections)
- Syphilis (through sores)
- HPV (linked to oral cancers)
What should I do after potential STI exposure?
Follow this immediate action plan:
- Seek PEP: For possible HIV exposure, start Post-Exposure Prophylaxis within 72 hours
- Get Tested: Schedule STI screening - note some tests require waiting periods
- Notify Partners: Inform recent partners about potential exposure
- Abstain Temporarily: Avoid sexual contact until receiving test results
- Document Symptoms: Track any unusual physical changes
"Emergency PEP reduces HIV infection risk by over 80% when started within 24 hours of exposure." - WHO Guidelines
Are there STI vaccines available?
Currently available vaccines protect against:
- HPV: Gardasil 9 protects against 9 cancer-causing strains (recommended for ages 9-45)
- Hepatitis B: 3-dose series provides lifetime immunity
- Hepatitis A: Often recommended for MSM communities
How do I discuss STI prevention with a new partner?
Use this framework for productive conversations:
- Choose Neutral Timing: Discuss before sexual situations arise
- Share Your Status: Disclose your most recent test results first
- Ask Open Questions: "When was your last full STI screening?"
- Establish Boundaries: Clearly state your protection requirements
- Make Testing Convenient: Suggest getting tested together
"Partners who discuss STI prevention before intimacy report 40% higher condom usage rates and more trusting relationships." - Journal of Sexual Medicine