There are many types of diseases that can be spread through sexual contact with an infected person. They are commonly referred to as sexually transmitted diseases. The most common of these diseases are; HIV, gonorrhea, HPV, syphilis, hepatitis B, chlamydia, and herpes. There are several others, but these are the most common. These diseases are usually caused by either a bacterial, fungal or viral infection and may come with symptoms that can either be mild or severe. Chlamydia, for instance, rarely produces any symptoms. HIV, on the other hand, reduces immunity and can lead to severe weight loss. Most STDs normally cause pain during urination, blood in urine, pus from the penis or vagina, rushes in the pubic region and severe pain among other signs and symptoms. If you have any symptom that is linked to STIs, be sure to get tested and seek treatment. 

How to Avoid STDs

While STDs can easily be transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact, they can just as easily be avoided. While some of these diseases can be treated effectively, prevention is often the best cure. The following are some strategies for keeping STDs at bay:

i) Abstaining From Sex

You can only get STDs when you have sexual contact with an infected person. If you do not have any form of sexual contact with anyone, therefore, you cannot get an STD. If you have not found a suitable partner with whom you can practice mutual monogamy, it would be better for you to abstain from having any type of sexual contact.

ii) Practice Mutual Monogamy

Having a single sexual partner who has also chosen you as their only sex partner can help you keep STDs at bay. Therefore, you should sit down with your partner and come to an agreement to be faithful to each other by not having any other sexual partner. However, both of you should also get tested to confirm that you are both free of any sexually transmittable diseases before you start practicing mutual monogamy. 

iii) Use Condoms

It is important you learn how to use latex condoms properly and carry a few of them in your pocket or bag whenever you anticipate having sexual contact. The use of latex condoms when having sex can reduce the risk of getting infected with an STI. If you are not in a mutual monogamy relationship, or you don't know the status of your sexual partner, you should always use a latex condom. 

iv) Avoid Risky Sexual Behavior

When you have risky sexual behavior, such as group sex, having sexual contact with strangers you find at the bar or having sexual contact while intoxicated, you can significantly increase your chances of contracting an STI. Therefore, you should avoid these kinds of risky sexual behavior. 

v) Get Tested Regularly

While you can take all the necessary precautions, there is a chance that you may get infected by your partner. Therefore, it is recommended you get tested regularly to ensure you can get prompt medical attention if you are found to be infected. When you find a new partner, be sure to get tested before having any sexual contact whether anal, oral or vaginal.