How to Prevent STDs

Multiple strategies together provide the best STD prevention.

Barrier Methods

• Condoms: reduce STD risk by 80–90%
• Dental dams for oral sex
• Condoms do NOT fully protect against herpes and HPV (skin-to-skin spread)

Vaccines

• HPV vaccine: prevents 90%+ of HPV cancers
• Hepatitis B vaccine: 95%+ effective
• Hepatitis A vaccine: recommended for at-risk groups

Medication

• PrEP: daily pill prevents HIV (99%+ effective)
• PEP: emergency prevention within 72 hours of exposure

Behavioral

• Regular testing (know your status)
• Mutual monogamy
• Communicate with partners about testing
• Avoid douching
• Limit number of partners

Testing Schedule

• Under 25: annually
• Multiple partners: every 3–6 months
• New relationship: both partners test before unprotected sex
• Pregnant: first prenatal visit