What are the best practices for maintaining sexual health?

Best Practices for Maintaining Sexual Health

Consistent and correct condom use combined with regular STI screening are the most effective strategies for maintaining sexual health and preventing sexually transmitted infections. 1

Risk Reduction Strategies

Barrier Methods

• Condoms: When used consistently and correctly, condoms are highly effective in preventing various STIs, including HIV 1

  • Use a new condom with each sexual encounter
  • Handle carefully to avoid damage
  • Apply before any genital contact
  • Ensure no air is trapped in the tip
  • Use adequate lubrication
  • Use only water-based lubricants with latex condoms (oil-based lubricants weaken latex)
  • Hold firmly at the base during withdrawal while the penis is still erect 1

• Female condoms: Provide an alternative barrier method, though clinical data on STI prevention is limited 1

• Other barriers: For oral sex on women or anal rimming, dental dams can reduce transmission risk 1

Sexual Behavior Modifications

• Limit number of sexual partners 1
• Get tested for STIs, including HIV, before initiating sexual activity with a new partner 1
• Avoid sexual contact with partners showing signs of STIs 1
• Consider lower-risk sexual activities like mutual masturbation which poses significantly lower infection risk 2
• Postpone sexual debut when appropriate (especially for adolescents) 1

Regular Screening and Healthcare

Screening Recommendations

• All sexually active adolescents should receive high-intensity behavioral counseling for STI prevention 1
• Adults at increased risk for STIs should receive behavioral counseling 1
• Persons diagnosed with an STI should be considered at increased risk for subsequent STIs 1

Healthcare-Seeking Behaviors

• Seek prompt medical attention for symptoms of potential STIs 1
• Take medications as directed and complete full treatment courses 1
• Return for follow-up evaluations as recommended 1
• Abstain from sexual activity during treatment for STIs 1

Special Population Considerations

Women Who Have Sex with Women

• Education about STI risks is essential as transmission between women is possible 1
• Use barrier methods (condoms on sex toys, gloves, dental dams) 1
• Avoid sharing sex paraphernalia 1

Adolescents

• Counseling on sexual behaviors to prevent STIs is recommended beginning at age 12 years 1
• Annual well-woman visits provide excellent opportunities for counseling about maintaining sexual health 1

Higher-Risk Individuals

• One-on-one structured discussions with trained healthcare providers are recommended for individuals at high risk for STIs 1
• Gender-tailored and culturally appropriate interventions can help reduce risk-taking behaviors 1

Communication and Partner Involvement

• Encourage partners to be evaluated and treated when an STI is diagnosed 1
• Discuss sexual history openly with healthcare providers 1
• Use principles of motivational interviewing to promote safer sex practices 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Inconsistent condom use: Condom failure usually results from inconsistent or incorrect use rather than product failure (breakage rates are <2% when properly used) 1

2. Assuming low risk: Many people incorrectly assume they or their partners are at low risk for STIs 1

3. Delaying treatment: Early detection and treatment of lower genital tract infections is crucial in preventing complications like PID 1

4. Neglecting partner notification: Failure to inform partners about an STI diagnosis perpetuates transmission cycles 1

5. Using oil-based lubricants with latex condoms: This weakens the latex and increases risk of breakage 1

By implementing these evidence-based practices, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of acquiring or transmitting STIs while maintaining sexual health and wellbeing.