How Do I Prevent an STI?

"How do i prevent an STI" page header

 

"i don't want to get a sexually transmitted infection!"
"Look at the resources below for information!"

 

Abstinence

The most reliable way to avoid infection is to not have sex (i.e., anal, vaginal, or oral). Infections live in the secretions and membranes of these body parts.

Vaccinations

Vaccines are safe, effective, and highly recommended ways to prevent STIs. There are immunizations for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and HPV. Check your immunization record if you need an update, make an appointment for vaccines at Health Services or call your health insurance company for resources.

Reduce the Number of Sex Partners

Reducing your number of sex partners decreases your risk for STIs.

Consider having sexual activity with only one partner

Being sexually active with only one partner who has agreed to be sexually active only with you decreases your risk of getting an STI.

Use Condoms

Using condoms the right way and using them every time you have anal, vaginal, or oral sex. Check if you are using these the right way - latex external condom (on penis) or internal condom (in vagina or rectum) or dental dam (protecting your mouth during vaginal or anal sex).

Know your STI status – get tested

Knowing your STI status is a critical step to stopping STI transmission in our community. If you know you are infected, you can take steps to protect yourself and your partners.

Many STIs are asymptomatic, so you don’t know if you have one unless you get tested. Be open and honest with your sex partner about preventing STIs.

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If you have had an unwanted sexual encounter or believe you have experienced sexual assault, first know that it is not your fault, and we are here to support you. 

We strongly encourage that you meet with a confidential Campus Advocate at Safer and seek medical care from Health Services or a local medical provider. If you have experienced harm within the last 7 days, you may have additional medical and reporting options. Medical providers in California are mandated to report injuries as a result of assault or abuse to law enforcement. If you have questions about this, please work with your Advocate and/or medical provider to determine how to best meet your medical needs. 

Sources: Centers for Disease Control, 2021 STI, 2023 Hepatitis B and C; California Department of Public Health, 2022. 

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