Three practices proven to lower the risk of becoming infected with an STI are: using condoms correctly every time you have sex, limiting your number of sexual partners and choosing mutual monogamy, and getting regularly tested and treated (and vaccinated where appropriate).

Condom use every time

Using a condom the right way, every time you have vaginal, anal, or oral sex, significantly reduces the risk of many STIs by providing a barrier against infected fluids and mucosal surfaces. Health agencies emphasize correct and consistent condom use as one of the most effective day‑to‑day strategies for safer sex.

Fewer partners and monogamy

Having fewer sexual partners lowers the chance of encountering someone with an STI, which directly reduces overall risk. Being in a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and does not have an STI further decreases exposure opportunities.

Testing, treatment, and vaccines

Regular STI screening means infections can be detected and treated early, which protects both you and your partners from ongoing transmission. Vaccination against infections such as HPV and hepatitis B also reduces the risk of acquiring those specific STIs and their complications.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.