International Youth Day 2024: Top 3 Tips To Prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases Among Youngsters: Expert Weighs In

According to a National Institutes of Health (NIH) report, the prevalence of sexual intercourse among those aged between 14-15 is higher than those aged 12 to 13. Stepping into youth exposes you to sexual practices. Not having proper education on sexually transmitted diseases and how to avoid them can put you at a higher risk of developing them. As we observed International Youth Day 2024 on August 12, it's important to gain some necessary knowledge to safeguard our health.

“STDs (Sexually transmitted diseases) are transferred from one person to another through sexual contact. They are also popular as Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). These infections are usually spread during vaginal, oral, or anal sex,” shared Dr Chirag Bhandari, Founder of the Institute of Andrology and Sexual Health (IASH). He further helped us understand the necessary steps one can take to prevent sexually transmitted diseases.

Tips To Prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases Among Youngsters

Here are some preventive measures that you can follow for your safety and health:

Use Condoms & Dental Dams

“The first preventive measure I’ve added to this list is to use condoms and dental dams every time you are having vaginal, anal, or oral sex. This highly reduces your risk of contracting an STD. Condoms help in avoiding the exchange of bodily fluids that contain bacteria or viruses that cause STDs,” said Dr Chirag.

Image Courtesy: MedicalNewsToday

Don't Miss: Oral Sex Can Increase Risk Of Cancer; Here's How To Prevent It

Vaccination

Hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and Human papillomavirus are some common vaccines available for preventing STIs. Dr Chirag said, “You can consult with a professional healthcare specialist for the best advice, with this you can determine which vaccines are appropriate based on your individual age, health history and risk factors.”

Image Courtesy: Harvard Health

Don't Miss: Here's How Poor Menstrual Hygiene Can Lead To STIs/STDs And Affect Your Love Life

Avoid Risky Behaviours

Engaging in risky sexual behaviour can pose health risks to you and your partner. To minimise these risks, consider reducing your number of sexual partners and avoid having sex under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This can help prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and promote safer sexual experiences.

Herzindagi.com is Jagran New Media's gender and lifestyle vertical, catering to women of all age groups, helping them remain updated, on-trend and aware. To improve our performance and understand our readers' interests better, we have created this poll. This will take 2 minutes of your time, do help us out. Click here to fill out the form.