#4: Not getting your vaccines
One of the more surprising unsafe sex practices is engaging in sex without vaccinations against STIs. While there’s no vaccine that can protect you from all sexually transmitted diseases, some vaccines can safely and effectively prevent Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and HPV infections.
Hepatitis A and B cause liver inflammation and can produce symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, tiredness, and fever. When left untreated, it also increases the person’s risk of developing liver scarring (cirrhosis). HPV, on the other hand, is the leading cause of cervical cancer in women and is linked to genital warts.
Talk to your doctors about the following:
HPV vaccine. Pre-teens aged 9 to 12 years old can start with their HPV vaccinations. If you missed it during that time, you could get it through the ages of 13 to 26.
Get Hepatitis A and B vaccines. Most of us got our Hepatitis A and B vaccines when we were still babies. But if you haven’t received it yet, consult your doctor. There are available Hepatitis A/B combination vaccines given in 3 doses over 6 months.
#5: Not taking the time to get to know your partner
Another entry in the list of unsafe sex practices is not knowing the sexual history of your sex partner. You and your partner should be honest about any factors that can put either of you at risk, such as:
- Past and current sexual behaviors, like being with multiple partners and engaging in unprotected sex
- Health condition (do you or your partner have STIs?)
- Recreational habits, including alcohol and/or drug abuse
Having multiple sexual partners is considered high-risk sexual behavior because it increases your risk of contracting STIs. Meanwhile, taking alcohol and drugs before intercourse reduces your ability to make good sexual decisions.
Sharing this information will help you and your partner make informed choices about the kind of sexual activity you want to engage in and the precautions that the two of you need to take.
What should I do if I have unprotected sex?
If you knowingly or unknowingly engage in unsafe sex, remember the following:
- Don’t douche, as it doesn’t “wash away” the infection and might irritate the vagina and heighten the risk of STIs
- Get you and your partner tested for STIs
- Consult your doctor if you are experiencing unexplained genitourinary symptoms
Key takeaways
Sex is more enjoyable when it’s safe and done with someone you trust. That way, you don’t have to worry about unwanted outcomes like STIs or pregnancy. Stand your ground and don’t give in when a sexual partner is pressuring you into unsafe sex. Remember that the best solution to any health-related problem is prevention.
Learn more about Sexual Wellness here.
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