Don’t risk your sexual health

Are you in a steamy relationship with a new partner you have just met or have multiple sexual partners? If you are not sure of your partner’s sexual health status, you are advised to always use a condom. Read on to know why a condom is a must.

Many people have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) which they may not be aware of, or are aware of but have not sought medical attention. You are responsible for your own health so take care of your sexual health and don’t gamble with it. You should never have unprotected sex unless you know your partner well enough to be privy to his sexual history and health status.

Using a condom is the best way of protecting yourself from STIs. Also remember that infections such as Chlamydia can increase your risk of infertility, and you may have problems later in life when you want to start a family. Despite all the information available and knowledge of the consequences of STIs such as HIV, many women shy away from asking their partner to use a condom.

Some women feel that mentioning condoms at the first moment of passion when you are out on a date can make it look as if you want to have sex, when neither partner really knows what will happen later. Not only that, many women fear it may make them look “easy to get” when they talk about condoms at the first mention of sex. Whether sex will take place or not, make sure your partner knows that if you ever have sex, he must use a condom.

While discussing condoms may be an awkward conversation, especially with someone you don’t know very well or a steady partner you are not too sure about his sexual health status, it is still the best bet for protection against STIs. Put on before sex, a condom acts as an effective barrier, preventing infections spreading and is also a family planning method, though not 100 percent effective. So, not only will it guard your sexual health, a condom may also help you avoid unwanted pregnancy. Condoms are also vital for safeguarding after your fertility, as Chlamydia is often symptom-free and you may never know you have it until the time you are trying for a child, which may be too late. It is important for every sexually active woman to have regular gynaecological tests, as these can help detect various problems early and treatment offered in good time.