“Good, open communication between partners is always key”, states Stephanie. Abstinence is the best way of preventing STDs. However, if you opt to engage in any kind of sexual activity, there are risky behaviors that can be avoided and steps to follow to ensure the best practices are taking place. According to the experts at ID Care, sexually active individuals should:
practice safe sex by using a condom
get tested for STDs regularly in addition to a pap smear
have open and honest communication with your partner
have sex with a partner that agrees to only have sex with you
get the HPV vaccine (female ages 9 – 26) as well as the Hepatitis B vaccine
avoid high risk behaviors including multiple partners, drug use, and alcohol use