The Importance of Sex Education
Sex Education is very important to understanding the detrimental issues that sexual transmitted diseases can present to the individual, couple, and family unit.
Follow the pages to the additional Centers for Disease Control and Prevention links to learn more on how you can protect yourself from Sexually Transmitted Diseases and unwanted pregnancies.
This page includes information about sexually transmitted disease (STD) prevention, testing, and resources.
Center of Disease Control (CDC) - Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD's) Information
How You Can Prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases!!!!!
Get the Facts
Arm yourself with basic information about STDs:
How are these diseases spread? How can you protect yourself? What are the treatment options? Learn the answers to these questions by reading the STD Fact Sheets.
Also: view “The Lowdown on how to Prevent STDs” infographic.
Protect Yourself
You have the facts; now protect yourself and your sexual partners.
Abstinence
The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have sex (i.e., anal, vaginal or oral).
Vaccination
Vaccines are safe, effective, and recommended ways to prevent hepatitis B and HPV. HPV vaccination is recommended for preteens ages 11 or 12 (or can start at age 9) and everyone through age 26, if not vaccinated already. Vaccination is not recommended for everyone older than age 26 years. However, some adults age 27 through 45 years who are not already vaccinated may decide to get the HPV vaccine after speaking with their doctor about their risk for new HPV infections and the possible benefits of vaccination. HPV vaccination in this age range provides less benefit as more people have already been exposed to HPV. You should also get vaccinated for hepatitis B if you were not vaccinated when you were younger.
Reduce Number of Sex Partners
Reducing your number of sex partners can decrease your risk for STDs. It is still important that you and your partner get tested, and that you share your test results with one another.
Mutual Monogamy
Mutual monogamy means that you agree to be sexually active with only one person, who has agreed to be sexually active only with you. Being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner is one of the most reliable ways to avoid STDs. But you must both be certain you are not infected with STDs. It is important to have an open and honest conversation with your partner.
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Use Condoms
Correct and consistent use of the male latex condom is highly effective in reducing STD transmission. Use a condom every time you have anal, vaginal, or oral sex.
If you have latex allergies, synthetic non-latex condoms can be used. But it is important to note that these condoms have higher breakage rates than latex condoms. Natural membrane condoms are not recommended for STD prevention.