Did you know that most STIs are asymptomatic? It’s true!
Abstinence
Abstinence is one way to prevent and stop the spread of HIV/STIs. If abstinence worked as the most solid solution, Arizona would not be No. 2 in the nation for syphilis. There are things occurring in our bodies naturally that can thwart even the most robust abstinence plan. They are our hormones and pheromones.
Hormones and Pheromones
That’s right! Our internal and external chemistry can take charge way more than we realize. Hormones regulate our bodily systems, including reproduction. Pheromones are chemical substances produced and released into the environment by animals and insects. As humans and mammals, we release these chemicals without our knowledge or consent. When released, these chemicals interact with the chemistry of others in our species. Have you ever been so crazy attracted to someone to whom you would not ordinarily be attracted? Those are your pheromones talking! Your chemistry can interact with their chemistry without your knowledge, and this can have a negative impact on any abstinence plan!
Masturbation
Masturbation is a definite STI-free way to enjoy an orgasm. A simple Google search on the benefits of masturbation will provide you hours of good reading on the subject. Masturbation has many health benefits, including the following: better sleep, less stress, more oxygen to your brain, relaxation, relief of menstrual cramps, improved pelvic wall strength and a better understanding of yourself.
Prophylaxis
People need to understand the proper use of prophylaxis, also known as condoms. Today’s condoms are more than one size fits all. They come in different sizes, materials, colors, flavors and some even glow in the dark! There are female condoms and dental dams so everyone can be equally protected while expressing themselves. Female condoms can also be used for anal sex.
Lube
Lube, glorious lube, is an important part of STI prevention. That’s right, lube used during any sexual acts, intercourse or masturbation reduces friction, and reducing friction also reduces the microscopic tearing that can occur during sex. These microscopic tears are the pathways microorganisms and pathogens use to enter your body. Lube can also be a pleasure enhancer, increasing sensation with condom use.
PEP
Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. PEP is an amazing prevention tool that has helped thousands of people avoid getting HIV. Being treated with PEP means one is taking a medication that can stop the HIV infection of a person after a high-risk exposure to HIV. We have a short window of time to get this life-saving medication to a person – a mere 72 hours. That means we have 72 hours from the time of the high-risk exposure to get a person the medication in their mouth. This is not 72 hours for an appointment, it is 72 hours to get the medication into the person’s system, and the earlier the better. If taken once each day for 28 days, PEP medication will stop the HIV transmission. Fabulous!
PrEP
Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis is another tool that is highly effective in stopping the transmission of HIV in people who are considered high-risk for contracting the virus. Although it is true that you can contract HIV having unprotected sex even one time, anyone who is considered high-risk for contracting the virus should be on the daily regimen of one pill a day to keep HIV away! Don’t let the worry of not being able to get the pills prescribed to you or being able to afford it stand in your way. There are many ways underinsured or even uninsured people can receive PrEP.
Regular STI/HIV Screening
Yes, getting tested and having a dialogue about your sexual health is a great prevention tool. Did you know that most STIs are asymptomatic? It’s true! It is estimated that 50-75% of people with chlamydia do not even know they have it. We recommend making an annual STI/HIV test a part of your annual health examination. So many STIs and HIV transmissions could be avoided if medical providers would do this and if patients knew to ask for it.
Talking
As funny as it might sound, talking about STIs is a form of prevention. Some people in their younger years contract STIs. In very young and naïve minds, people think lightning will not strike twice. We beg to differ! The reality is, if you engage in unprotected sex (unless you’re in a committed monogamous relationship and you both have been tested and cleared) you will cross paths with an STI. Having unprotected sex is like spinning an STI roulette wheel prior to engagement. Which STI do you want, because you have many options. Unfortunately, this isn’t a gameshow, and you cannot choose which door will open. You are going to get the one or ones that you’re going to get – period.
So, let’s focus on how to enjoy our sex lives, take necessary action for our sexual health and avoid catching an STI! Prevention, prevention and did I mention prevention? I hope you have learned something and are encouraged to use all the prevention tools available.
This is Hedda Fay reminding you to love yourself and your parts! FBN
By Hedda Fay
Hedda Fay is the community outreach and program developer for Northland Cares. In a former life, she worked in law enforcement and public mental health. Her passion today is educating people about their sexual health and prevention services to the community. Northland Cares is located at 3112 Clearwater Drive, Ste. A, in Prescott. For more information, call 928-776-4612.
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