Sexually transmitted diseases, also known as STDs, are more common than we’d like to think. In a world which is getting more and more involved in hook up culture that is open to having more than one sexual partner, sometimes even simultaneously, it is bound to potentially attract diseases and infections from people you have sex with. While the best cure for any problem is its prevention, you can also use some measures to avoid contracting sexual diseases from someone you just met.

One of the leading causes of STDs is unprotected sex and frequent sex with multiple partners. The problem with STD symptoms is that they can often pass off as regular allergies or flu. However, it is only later on that you will realize that something more sinister is on the play. Due to its near miss STD symptoms, it is important to get yourself diagnosed at an STD Clinic from time to time, especially if you are very sexually active and break prevention rules often.

Speaking of these rules, here are some things you need to keep in mind about preventing STDs.

• The holy grail of safe sex is to always use condoms, for men, and to always insist on condoms, for women. Avoid having unprotected sex with anyone who has complained about genital soreness or discharge in the past. While this is not the sort of thing you will learn about someone you just met, it is better to always be safe than to be sorry. The only time it is acceptable to have unprotected sex is when you only sex with one partner and have been physically engaged for at least six months. There is no harm however in asking to your partner to get tested for STDs.
• Whenever you have sex, only use latex condoms and any lubricant should only be water-based. While condoms do not provide 100% protection against disease or pregnancy, they do offer most promising security against these problems.
• Never share underclothing with anyone. It is not only unsanitary but also unsafe as you may end up getting the other’s person’s bacteria if they have it. The same is with towels. These should always be used individually.
• Always make it a practice to wash up before and after intercourse. It is not only for the prevention of STD, it is also for your personal hygiene.
• Don’t be in denial about HIV. This deadly disease can be controlled if it is detected in its early stages. HIV symptoms can be very misleading. So if you are someone who is into drug abuse or unprotected sex, you must get tested for HIV immediately. HIV PEP treatment is available at Shim Clinic for suspected exposure to the virus.

The best way to prevent STDs is to have safe sex and safe sex means only engaging with partners you can trust.