It doesn’t matter what sex you are or who you’re having sex with, if you’re having sex you need to be careful of STDs. Many STDs don’t have symptoms so most people don’t even know they have them. That’s why it’s important to get tested. Testing is confidential and often free. If you are living with an STD and don’t know, you could be at risk of developing serious health conditions, not to mention at risk of giving the infection to your partners.
Lucky for you, April is STD Awareness Month so we’re here to tell you everything you need to know about protecting yourself from STDs! There are many different types of STD’s, check out our pages on chlamydia, gonorrhea, hepatitis B, herpes, HIV (AIDS), HPV & genital warts, syphilis and trichomoniasis to find out the ins-and-outs of each infection. One thing’s for sure though- if you're sexually active, the only way to protect yourself from STDs is to use protection.
There are a lot of birth control methods out there that can help prevent unintended pregnancies but condoms are the only method that also prevents STDS.
There are two different types of condoms:
- The male/external condom
- The female/internal Condom.
The male/external condom is a thin covering that fits over an erect penis. It can be used during vaginal, oral or anal sex and can come in a variety of colors, flavors, sizes and materials. Condoms are easy to carry around, can be found in many places – from gas stations to vending machines- and can be bought by any person of any age. Interested in getting free condoms? We can help you find either the closest clinic to you, or send them right to your door!
The female/internal condom is thin, but strong. When inserted into the vagina or anus it can be used by both men and women for safe vaginal and anal sex. It is disposable, easily accessible, and can be inserted up to 8 hours before having sex. Many clinics give them away for free, but they can also be purchased by people of all ages.
If you are having sex, you may be at risk of STDS. Make sure you are protecting yourself by using protection. STDs may not always show symptoms, but it doesn’t mean they’re not there! Learn more about the different types of STDs, and find out where your nearest clinic is so you can get tested.