Does abstinence have a failure rate?
YES!
SO:
Even if you choose abstinence, it is best to be informed about the next-best protections from STDs and unwanted pregnancy.
Body fluids like blood, semen and vaginal fluid can pass AIDS/HIV, Herpes, and all the other STIs
Here’s how not to get them:
Abstinence is one option, but like all of the options it has a failure rate. Just because you think you will not have sex does not mean that you won’t. Many circumstances cause people to change their minds quickly. Choosing Abstinence does not mean that you don’t need to learn about safer sex practices. Safer sex is a large social issue, and its benefits can only be reaped when everyone is educated. Choosing your own method of safer sex is a personal choice – a choice that you can only be better at making by learning more!
Choose your sexual partners cautiously. Talk to them about their sexual history. Ask them what they think of condoms.
Get tested for STIs frequently. If you have a disease, disclose it to future partners.
Get tested with your partner if you are in a monogamous relationship. You must be tested 2 times over a 6 month period to determine whether you have contracted a Sexually transmitted disease.
A gynecological exam does NOT test for all STIs. You must take a blood test to test for HIV/AIDS and other diseases.
Condoms are considered the best method of disease control. Be sure you use them properly. Condoms must be in place before any genital contact occurs in order to prevent disease. Condoms may not prevent against diseases like herpes and syphillus, but they are 98% effective in AIDS prevention.
Condoms are also used on sex toys to keep them clean. If you share a sex toy, be sure to put a fresh condom on. Bodily fluids on the outside of the condom could spread disease.
Use condoms and dental dams when engaging in oral sex ( the exception is if you and your partner have both been tested for ALL STIs 2 times over a period of 6 months and are monogamous)
The “female condom” is not strictly for females it is a receptive condom. It can be used in the vagina or anus.
Birth control comes in a variety of forms. Even if you do not have regular health care, you may be able to get birth control through planned parenthood or through a program in your state. There are affordable options.
Is an emergency contraceptive – only for use if you have had an accident (like a ripped condom) Plan B can help prevent a pregnancy but it does NOT prevent disease.
If you have suspected STD exposure, seek emergency care immediately.
There has been some development of anti-AIDS drugs that can work within the few hours after an accident
If you have been raped or sexually asaulted:
Seek emergency care immediately. Most hospitals have discreet units especially for victims of sexual assault.
Rape is an issue for people of all sexes, genders, sexual orientations, ethnicities, and socio-economic backgrounds. Most rapes are perpetrated by a person the victim knows. No is No. Even if you have been making out, if you say no to sex and are forced to perform sexual activity, that is rape.
The best protection for yourself in any instance of rape is to seek immediate medical attention in an Emergency Room. This allows you to prevent pregnancy, prevent some STD contraction, and alleviate and vaginal, anal, or bodily trauma. It also is the only sure way to document legal evidence of the rape if you choose to press charges against the perpetrator at a later date.
Remember, you are not alone. Many women and men have survived sexual assault. There are people that understand your feelings and concerns and are available to help you.
Sexual health doesn’t end at sex:
Urinary Tract Infections:
Many women develop urinary tract infections as a side effect of sexual activity. Learn more about them and how to prevent them
Menstrual health:
It is important to learn about and know your cycle. Being aware of how much and how often you menstruate can be an important tool in diagnosing menstrual and reproductive ailments. You can also learn about alieving cramps and discomfort during your period.
Tampons, pads, the environment and toxins
Many women’s hygiene products are made with less than desirable products. Dioxins (chemicals used as bleach) enters your body through tampons and disposable pads it is unclear what effect these may have on your body, but bleaches are highly toxic, so you may want to reconsider what you put inside or close to your body.
Many women find other alternatives like the diva cup, natural sea sponges or or re-usable cloth pads to be more comfortable and convenient.
Be Safer and informed!
This posting is not intended to replace comprehensive sex education. The poster is not a certified sex education or health care professional.
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