Health Services

Health Education

Sexual Health

Disease Prevention and Safer Sex

We have all heard that the only way to protect ourselves from sexually transmitted infections is to simply not have sex. While this statement may be true, it is not realistic for all of our students. Therefore, if you engage in sexual activity of any kind - oral, rectal, or vaginal intercourse - it is essential that you do so in a manner that protects you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, syphilis, and HIV can be transmitted through all types of sex. While only abstinence is 100% effective in preventing STI transmission, the following practices can help you to prevent getting or spreading an STI:

1. Before beginning a new intimate relationship, insist that both you and your partner be tested for STIs. Be aware that routine STI testing does not include tests for herpes or Human Pailloma Virus (HPV).
2. Maintain mutual monogamy in your intimate relationship.
3. Limit your number of lifetime sex partners.
4. Properly and consistently use latex condoms and/or dental dams in additional to prescription contraceptives (which don't protect against STIs). Condoms coated with spermicide are not more effective in preventing STI transmission than condoms without spermicide. A spermicide that causes irritation increases the risk of acquiring an STI if your partner is infected.
5. If you are being treated for an STI, follow your healthcare provider's instructions carefully for taking medications and ask when it is safe to engage in sexual activity again.
6. If you experience signs or symptoms of any STIs, visit a healthcare provider and do not engage in sexual activity until you know for sure.
7. If you are diagnosed with an STI, tell your partner so that he or she can be treated and avoid spreading it to others or back to yourself.