5 Ways To Prevent Stds At Texas Tech

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As a student at Texas Tech, it's essential to prioritize your health and well-being, especially when it comes to preventing the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). With the rise of STD cases among young adults, it's crucial to take proactive steps to protect yourself and your partners. Here are five ways to prevent STDs at Texas Tech:

Sexual health is a vital aspect of overall wellness, and it's essential to take responsibility for your own health. By being informed, taking preventive measures, and practicing safe sex, you can significantly reduce the risk of contracting an STD. In this article, we'll delve into the five ways to prevent STDs at Texas Tech, providing you with the knowledge and tools you need to stay safe and healthy.

Understanding STDs

Before we dive into the prevention methods, it's essential to understand what STDs are and how they're transmitted. STDs are infections that are primarily spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Some common types of STDs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, and syphilis.

STDs can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites, and they can have severe consequences if left untreated. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there were over 2 million reported cases of chlamydia and gonorrhea in the United States in 2020, with young adults aged 15-24 accounting for nearly half of these cases.

5 Ways to Prevent STDs at Texas Tech

Now that we've covered the basics of STDs, let's move on to the five ways to prevent them at Texas Tech:

1. Practice Safe Sex

The most effective way to prevent STDs is to practice safe sex. This means using protection every time you engage in sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Condoms and dental dams can significantly reduce the risk of STD transmission.

When choosing a condom, make sure it's latex or polyurethane, as these materials provide the best protection against STDs. It's also essential to use a new condom for each act of sex and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper use.

2. Get Tested Regularly

Regular testing is crucial in preventing the spread of STDs. The CDC recommends that all sexually active individuals get tested at least once a year, and more frequently if they have multiple partners or engage in high-risk behaviors.

At Texas Tech, you can get tested for STDs at the Student Health Services clinic. They offer confidential and affordable testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, and syphilis.

3. Use Protection for Oral Sex

Oral sex can also transmit STDs, including herpes, gonorrhea, and chlamydia. Using protection during oral sex can significantly reduce the risk of STD transmission.

Dental dams and condoms can be used as barriers during oral sex. You can also use a piece of plastic wrap or a latex glove as a barrier.

4. Limit Your Number of Partners

Having multiple partners can increase your risk of contracting an STD. By limiting your number of partners, you can reduce the risk of STD transmission.

It's also essential to know your partner's sexual history and to discuss safe sex practices before engaging in any sexual activity.

5. Get Vaccinated

Certain vaccines, such as the HPV vaccine, can protect against STDs. The HPV vaccine is recommended for all individuals aged 11-26, and it can protect against certain types of HPV that can cause genital warts and cervical cancer.

At Texas Tech, you can get vaccinated against HPV at the Student Health Services clinic.

Conclusion

Preventing STDs at Texas Tech requires a combination of knowledge, safe sex practices, and regular testing. By following these five ways to prevent STDs, you can significantly reduce the risk of contracting an STD and protect your overall health and well-being.

Remember, it's always better to be safe than sorry. If you have any questions or concerns about STD prevention, don't hesitate to reach out to the Student Health Services clinic or a trusted healthcare provider.