There is nothing sexier than practicing safe sex and knowing when to get tested for STDs/HIV!
- Communicate with your partner - you don’t have to discuss every relationship you’ve ever had, but if you have a history with STDs, it’s important to let your partner know so you can discuss how to best protect each other.
- Practice safe sex - condoms (external and internal) are the only form of birth control that protects against STDs and HIV. Find out where you can get free condoms near you.
- Get tested - if you are sexually active, you should get tested at least once a year, or every time you have a new sex partner. Many STDs do not have symptoms, so the only way that you can know for sure is to get tested. Do you know where the nearest clinic is?
Always be prepared! Choosing to engage sexually means that you are opening yourself up to many possibilities, so know your partner, know where to get tested, and always have condoms on hand!