Practicing safe sex is vital to preventing STDS. This includes knowing your partner, their preferences, and their sexual history, as well as using proper safe-sex practices. Risky sexual behaviors, whether they be your own or that of a partner, increase your likelihood of contracting an STD.   You can prevent and/or reduce your risk of contracting an STD via the following methods:   ● Use condoms. Ensure that you are using appropriately fitted and sized male latex condoms when engaging in sexual activities, as this will reduce STD transmission. Latex condoms break less often when compared to other materials, however, there are alternative options for those that have a latex allergy. ● Regular STD testing with any partners. If you have a new partner, get tested for STDs together before getting sexually active and share your results. This ensures that both of you are protected and safe before going any further. ● Get vaccinated. You can get immunized for some forms of STDs, such as HPV and Hepatitis B. Getting immunized reduces your risk of catching certain STDs, although it does protect against all of them. ● Abstinence. Abstaining from vaginal, oral, and/or anal sex is the most reliable way to prevent infection. Some people practice abstinence over the long term or until they and their partner have been thoroughly tested for STDs to ensure safety.