Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and barrier protection measures
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases that are spread through various body fluids (blood, semen, vaginal secretions) and are most commonly contracted during sexual intercourse (oral, anal or vaginal). However, certain STIs (e.g. Hepatitis B or Human Papillomavirus) can also be transmitted in other ways, e.g. an infected mother can pass it on to her foetus during pregnancy or childbirth, and it is also possible to be infected by drug use or by the use of syringes that are already infected. More information on STIs can be found here.
The most important thing to know about STIs is that very often they don’t show any symptoms for a long time (or ever!), so it’s important to remember that the only reliable way to know if you’re infected is to get tested. This can be done at any health facility.
How to prevent STIs?
The only completely reliable way to avoid STIs is not to have sex, but if you do decide to have sex, it’s important to realise that there is a good chance of avoiding infection through responsible contraceptive use.
What helps make sex safer?
Contraceptives that provide a physical barrier: male or female condoms and barrier films for oral sex.
No other contraceptive (e.g. the contraceptive pill, hormonal coils, etc.) can protect against STIs because it does not provide a physical barrier. Bearing in mind the fact that STIs are spread through body fluids, we need to understand that in order to prevent infection, it is necessary to create a physical barrier that prevents the mixing of body fluids.
How do I know if my partner is infected?
Chat. Sex isn’t just a physical relationship – in order to make your sex life both physically and emotionally safer, more joyful and enjoyable, it’s important to remember to talk.
