Preventing STI's
By Leslie

Not having sex at all is the only 100 percent effective, fool-proof method of preventing pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. That's right, abstinence.

However, if you do have sex, please practice safer sex. Wearing a latex condom each and every time you have vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse will lower the risk of contracting an STI. Also, use a dental dam or another latex barrier if you are going to engage in oral sex. And remember that communication is key. Discuss condom use. Ask about your partner's sexual history and be honest about your own sexual history. Being open and honest about your and your partner's sexual history shows that you care about one another's health and well-being. For more tips on communicating, check out, "Get Your Talk On."

This feature was not meant to scare you, only to educate and raise awareness among youth. Have you ever heard the saying, "What you don't know won't hurt you?" Well, it ISN'T TRUE. Love yourself enough to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections. Cherish your life and your health. Check it out! If you suspect that you or your partner may have an STI, please see a physician for testing. Remember, if you are taking medication for an STI, you should avoid sexual intercourse until all medication has been taken and the STI has cleared up.

Questions?

For more information on sexually transmitted infections, you can call the following hotlines. All calls are confidential.

CDC National STD Hotline (English) - 1 (800) 342-2437 or 1 (800) 227-8922
CDC National STD Hotline (Spanish) - 1 (800) 344-7432
CDC National STD Hotline (TTY) - 1 (800) 243-7889
National Herpes Hotline - 1 (919) 361-8488