How to protect yourself against STIs

Let's get intimate for a sec. We all fancy a bit of romancing, don’t we? There's the thrill, the passion, the immense joy... But hang on a minute, let's not get too carried away. Along with the fireworks, there’s a sneaky bunch known as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Dodgy things, they can be silent but deadly. So, dear reader, let's dive deep into how you can have a fab time whilst keeping yourself safe. The LOVE Team's got your back!

STI transmission: how does it work?

To battle the baddies, you've got to know where they lurk:

During intimate encounters: Be it the traditional, oral or backdoor action, unprotected moments are prime time for STIs. You see, germs, bugs, and some nasty critters can hitch a ride in our bodily fluids (think: sperm, lady juices, blood, and even sometimes saliva). The moment these come in touch with our intimate spots, bingo! Transmission central.

Blood's the culprit: Ailments like HIV and Hepatitis B and C are chummy with our blood. Risky scenarios include mingling with open wounds, sharing needles (say NO to drugs, kiddos!), and dodgy medical tools.

During motherhood moments: Some STIs (hello, HIV, Hepatitis B, syphilis, HPV) can pass from mum to bub during pregnancy, childbirth or breastfeeding. Mums-to-be, a cheeky check-up is a bright idea!

Your safety toolkit

The classics:

External condoms: Gents, these are your best mates against most STIs. Made of latex (or polyurethane for those who get itchy with latex), they catch the little swimmers, keeping the juices from mingling. Safe and sound!

Regular check-ups: If your love life's a bustling metropolis, pop by for regular STI screenings. Many STIs are sneaky and silent. Nip 'em in the bud or manage them well if they've come to stay.

The Unsung Heroes:

Dental dams: Imagine a thin latex shield guarding the lady parts or the rear entrance during oral action or rimming. Voilà! Protection against STIs.
Internal condoms: Once labelled for the ladies, these nifty things can be popped into the front or back door. They're like bodyguards for your bits.
Spotless hygiene: Keep it pristine, folks. Fresh undies and a clean sweep of your love toys post-playtime is the way to go.
Vaccination station: Consider jabs against Hepatitis A, B and the pesky HPV. The earlier the better - teen years are prime time.
TasP and PrEP: Med marvels for HIV prevention. TasP keeps the viral load of HIV-positive folks super low, making transmission almost a myth. PrEP? It's for those at high risk, shielding them from getting the virus.

Mix and match these safety tools for the ultimate protection. Because why settle for just the classics?

Heads Up!

Birth control methods like coils, implants or pills? They're ace for family planning but zip for STI protection.

Safe adventures, lovely lot!