Sexual health is an essential aspect of our lives and maintaining it means being informed and responsible. A concern that often arises is the risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STD) when engaging in sexual activities with someone who may be infected.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss how likely you are to get an STD from an infected person, giving you the information and reassurance you need to make informed decisions about your sexual health.
Understanding STDs
STDs are infections that are usually transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex. They can also be spread through skin-to-skin contact, sharing sex toys, and sharing needles when injecting drugs intravenously. Some of the more common STDs include:
Not all sexual contact leads to the transmission of STDs and not all STDs are easily transmitted. The likelihood of contracting an STD depends on several factors, including the type of infection, the sexual practices involved, and the precautions taken.
Factors influencing the transmission of STDs
There are many factors that can affect the likelihood that an infected person will develop an STD.
The STD type
Different STDs have different transmission rates. Some are more contagious than others.
For example, herpes and syphilis can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, while HIV requires the exchange of certain bodily fluids such as blood, semen, vaginal secretions, or breast milk.
Certain types of sexual acts can also make transmission more or less likely. Anal sex, for example, puts the recipient at greater risk of contracting an infection. This is because the rectum and anus can be more easily torn during intercourse, making transmission more likely.
Safe sex practices
Using barrier methods such as condoms and dental dams greatly reduces the risk of STD transmission. Condoms are effective at preventing the spread of many STDs, but may not be as effective against infections that can be spread through skin-to-skin contact, such as herpes or HPV. However, they do provide a level of protection.
It is important to note that condoms, while effective in reducing the risk of getting an STD, do not guarantee that it will not be transmitted. You can wear a condom while having sex with an infected person and still get an STD.
Partner status
Knowing your partner’s STD status can help you make informed decisions. If both you and your partner have been tested and are free of STDs, your risk is significantly lower. Open and honest communication is key.
Frequency of intercourse
Engaging in sexual activities with multiple partners or frequent unprotected sex can increase your risk. Reducing the number of sexual partners and practicing safe sex can reduce your chances of getting an STD.
Vaccination
Some STDs, such as HPV, can be prevented through vaccination. Talk to your healthcare provider to determine if vaccines are recommended for you.
Confirmation and accountability
Anyone can contract an STD and it is not a reflection of a person’s character or choices. It’s about biology and risk factors. If you discover that you or your partner have an STD, it’s important not to blame, but rather to seek medical advice and think about how to manage the situation together.
If you are concerned about your sexual health, here are some steps you can take:
Try yourself
Regular STD testing, even when you don’t have symptoms, can help you learn your status and make informed decisions.
Use protection
Consistently use barrier methods such as condoms or dental dams to reduce the risk of STD transmission.
COMMUNICATE
Open and honest communication with your sexual partners is essential. Discuss your sexual health, try together, and make decisions about your sexual activities based on this information.
Seek professional guidance
If you’re unsure about anything related to STDs, don’t hesitate to call the number above to speak to one of Better2Know’s Sexual Health Advisors. They can provide guidance so you can access the best testing options available.
Final thoughts
Understanding the likelihood of contracting an STD from an infected person involves a combination of factors, and the risk can vary widely.
However, practicing safe sex, getting tested and engaging in open communication with your partners can significantly reduce your risk and ensure a healthier, more responsible approach to sexual health. Your sexual health is an important aspect of your overall well-being, so approach it with care.
If you think you may have an STD, get tested with Better2Know. Call the number above to speak to one of our Sexual Health Consultants. They will help you determine which STD test, screen, and clinic may be right for you.
