Safe sex — more than a catchphrase
How much do you know about protecting yourself and your partner from sexually transmitted infections, or STIs? Is safe sex something that’s not on your radar? Our San Antonio OBGYNs explain how to have safer sex to protect yourself and your partner from infections, such as chlamydia, herpes, gonorrhea or HIV.
What are sexually transmitted infections?
STIs, also known in the past as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are infections that people transmit to their partners during sexual contact. STIs are common and easily spread. The following circumstances increase your risk of getting an infection.
- If you or your partner have had sex with more than one partner
- Sex with a partner who has an STI
- If you have a medical history of sexually transmitted infections
- Injecting drugs or having a partner who does so
Almost every woman needs to protect herself during sexual contact at some point in her life, so learning about safe sex is important for everyone.
Symptoms of STIs
In many cases, sexually transmitted infections don’t cause symptoms in the early stages. Coming to see our San Antonio OBGYNs for annual wellness visits is one way to ensure that our team finds and treats infections in the early stages. Here are some STI symptoms you might notice.
- Vaginal discharge
- Vaginal itching or irritation
- Pain or burning when you urinate
- Lower abdominal, pelvic or back pain
How to practice safe sex
The keys to safe sex are awareness and preparedness. First, familiarize yourself with what you need to do to protect yourself. Next, be sure to practice those steps every time you have sexual contact. Here’s what you need to know.
- Get to know your sexual partner and his or her history before you have sexual contact.
- Limit the exchange of bodily fluids by using condoms and dental dams.
- Get your hepatitis B and HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccines.
- See our OBGYNs for regular STI testing.
- Avoid drinking too much alcohol or using illegal drugs because they increase the chances of participation in risky behavior.
Safe sex is possible when you follow safety guidelines.
Our San Antonio OBGYNs provide a safe space for women to talk about STIs
If you suspect that you may have a sexually transmitted infection, see our OBGYNs. Our team will envelop you with support while providing education and treatment. Contact us for an appointment with one of our caring San Antonio OBGYNs.