STD Prevention Tips for College Students

There are 20 million new sexually transmitted disease (STD) cases every year in the United States, and nearly half of them are teens and young adults between the ages of 15 to 24.

Right now, about one of every four college students has an active STD – a statistic that’s concerning because many STDs don’t show symptoms. So if you are sexually active, the only way to know for sure that you don’t have an STD is to get tested regularly.

The good news is, STDs are preventable! In order to stay safe, young adults should educate themselves about how to have “safer sex” and what resources are available for STD testing and treatment.

How do I have “safer” sex?

Safe sex is sometimes referred to as “safer sex” because condoms and other barrier methods may not be 100% effective in preventing STIs. Still, here are ways to have safer sex and lower your chances of getting (or giving) an STD:

•  Use condoms every time you have intercourse
•  Use other forms of contraception to prevent pregnancy
•  Limit partners to minimize exposure
• Get tested regularly for STDs
•  Avoid drugs and alcohol that affect your decision making
•  Communicate openly with your partner

Why should I use a protective barrier during sex?

The use of protective barriers during oral, vaginal or anal sex can help prevent the spread of STDs. Some common examples of these are:

• Condoms – The two most common types of condoms used to cover the penis during sex are latex and plastic/non-latex.
•  Female condoms – Despite the name, any gender can use them, they are placed inside the vagina or anus.
• Dental dams – A dental dam is a thin, flexible piece of latex or polyurethane placed over the vagina or anus for protection during oral sex.
  It’s important to use a new protective barrier every time you engage in sexual activity, and be sure to check it for rips, discoloration, or if it’s expired. Many campus health centers provide free condoms and other contraceptives to students. Just ask!

Should I discuss my sexual history with my partner?

Talk openly with your partner about your sexual health, needs, and what you want to explore sexually. Your partner deserves to know your full sexual health history. Have an open and honest conversation to help your partner make an informed decision about sex. If someone makes you feel uncomfortable or pressures you to have sex, tell them.

Can vaccinations prevent STDs?

Yes, there are vaccinations available to prevent and limit the spread of certain STDs, including Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Vaccinations are available until a patient is 26 years old if they are not already vaccinated. You should still use a protective barrier during sex, as there are many STDS and vaccines do not protect against all of them. Ask your vybe provider to learn more.

When should I get tested for an STD?

If you are sexually active, get tested routinely every few months to protect yourself and others. Many people with STDs do not exhibit symptoms. When left undiagnosed and untreated, they can negatively affect your health. Testing keeps everyone safe, get tested when:

• Before/after engaging in sexual activity with a new partner
•  If a sexual partner tests positive for an STD
•  If you’re experiencing any symptoms
• Every couple of months since STDs can take time to show up on a test.

Put STD testing on your college schedule

While most STDs are treatable, they can have long-term consequences on your health, including fertility issues and increasing the risk of cancer.

All vybe urgent care centers can diagnose and treat a wide range of illnesses, including STDs. We can also help patients get started on PrEP while they look for an ongoing PrEP provider.

vybe accepts both self-pay and insurance for confidential STD testing and we are open 7 days a week and extended hours. To know for sure if you have an STD, just get tested, walk in or schedule an appointment at your local vybe urgent care today.

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