Preventing sexually transmitted infections

You can help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Steps that lower the risk of getting or spreading STIs are to:

• Get key vaccines. Vaccines can help prevent hepatitis B and human papillomavirus infections passed through sexual activity.
• Limit your number of sexual partners. You can lower your risk of STIs by having sex with just one partner who only has sex with you.
• Get tested for STIs. Both you and your partner should get tested by your healthcare professionals before you have sex for the first time. Talk with each other about your test results.
• Use medicine to help prevent HIV if needed. If you might be at risk of HIV, talk with your healthcare professional. You may be prescribed medicine called pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which lowers your risk.
• Use condoms. Make sure that you or your partner puts on a new condom every time you have sex.
• Don't drink too much alcohol or use street drugs. Having lots of alcohol or using illegal drugs can cloud judgment. Both raise the chances of risky sexual behavior that could lead to an STI.
• Consider not having sex. This is the surest way to prevent STIs. The choice not to have sex is called abstinence.