Decreasing The Chance of Contracting an STI with Safe Sex Education
Research has shown that 20% of people in the United States have an STI. These numbers alone are reasons to push for safe sex education, along with the number of factors that can make one more susceptible to contracting one of these diseases. Where one lives, what one does, who they are, and who they love may all point to a heightened risk for sexually transmitted infections. Knowing your STD risk assessment can help you stay safe.
Those who live in the southern region of the United States and/or in larger metropolitan areas are at a heightened risk for contracting an STI, namely gonorrhea or syphilis. Additionally, choosing to have unprotected sex or sex without reliable protection methods can also increase one’s odds of infection. Even more unrelated lifestyle choices like using dating apps or substance use can increase risk, as these practices often involve unknown partners or impaired decision-making.
Ethnicity, age, income, background, and sexuality are also categories where research has found that the chance for infection differs. For example, uncircumcised men are less likely to acquire STIs, and younger people are more likely to report these infections than older people. The type of sex one is having also changes the level of risk, as anal intercourse is ten times more likely to result in an infection than vaginal intercourse.
Fortunately, there are several methods that one can use to lower the risk of infection or even completely prevent it. Abstinence, proper protection, testing, and vaccines are the most effective methods, helping to promote safe sex across the United States.
