STDs, or sexually transmitted diseases, can greatly weaken the body and those infected could eventually pass on from it. Some common STDs are genital herpes, chlamydia, gonorrhea and HIV. STDs, like the name suggests, are usually transferred from person to person through sexual contact. Some STDs are transferred through sexual fluids (e.g. seminal, vaginal and anal fluids) and some can be transferred only if you come into contact with infected areas, such as the herpes sore.
In Singapore, STDs are seldom talked about because sex is such a taboo topic. Adults avoid discussing it with their children, and so some teenagers and young adults begin engaging in sexual experiences without first understanding the possible consequences. This can be dangerous for their health, as they could possibly contract an STD during their first sexual encounter, especially if they don’t know how to prevent STDs.
As a reputable STD clinic in Singapore, here is our take on some precautions that can be taken whenever you are engaging in sexual activities.
Be conscious while having sex
The most dangerous times to be having sex are when you are intoxicated, or “high”. In that state, you may not be fully aware of everything that you are doing. You may also not have the energy or the consciousness to say “no” to anything that seems dangerous or makes you uncomfortable. As such, you should prevent yourself from turning drunk after a wild night of partying, by limiting your alcohol intake. You should also be in the company of people you trust – so you would not be taken advantage of, should the situation go awry. Enjoy sex while you are conscious and have taken the necessary precautions against STDs. You’ll be able to better appreciate the physical intimacy of your partner, and you won’t have to worry about any unwanted pregnancies or STDs that could arise from the encounter.
Always use condoms when engaging in penetrative sex
Even if you are a woman on contraceptive pills, the condom should always be worn on the penis. This is because a few STDs can still be transferred from one party to another despite the use of pills – such as HIV and chlamydia. Condoms act as a barrier between the two parties, preventing sexual fluids from one to enter the other, effectively negating chances of contracting STDs.
Do also ensure that the condom is properly worn, as condoms that are worn wrongly are very susceptible to being torn by friction during the sexual encounter. Feel free to use additional lubrication if you find that the movement during sex could cause the condom to tear. If a condom breaks during the encounter, you should replace it with a new one immediately – though there is a small chance that an STD would have transferred already.
Get tested for STDs frequently
Preventing STDs may not always be foolproof. You never know if your previous sexual encounters were completely safe. This is why you should get STD testing once in a while, to ensure that you are at the pink of your sexual health. STD testing is also a good opportunity for you to clarify with experienced doctors on how safe your sexual health practices have been. Consider visiting an STD clinic about once or twice a year, more if you have had riskier encounters. Testing early is also the best way for you to get access to medicines that can help you cure or cope with the STD. For more information on testing, you can browse our website.
Conclusion
While preventing STDs may seem troublesome, it can save you a lot of time and money on healthcare in the future. Follow these tips to ensure that you are always sexually healthy.