Prevention for STDs

Prevention is vital in the case of STIs that cannot be cured (Herpes & HIV). Avoidance of contact with the fluids and body parts of an infected person is an effective preventive method. Condoms are useful in most cases. If used correctly, it reduces the risk of contact. Testing for STIs before initiating or resuming sexual activity with a partner is ideal.

Vaccination- Certain types of viral STIs like Hepatitis A & B and Herpes have vaccines that protect against the diseases. Vaccines are also available for certain kinds of HPV.

Condoms- Condoms are effective only if properly used. They prevent infection only in the areas that they cover. Exposed areas can still get infected by STDs. Diseases like HIV cannot pass through unbroken skin, requiring contact with body fluids to be transmitted. Use of condoms can effectively prevent the transmission of HIV between partners. However, if open wounds or broken skin is present on the body during sexual contact, the risk of STD transmission increases. Latex condoms are effective in preventing the transmission of STDs, as the pores of latex condoms are so small that even virus’ are too large to pass through.