Valentine’s Day is a day full of love and romance. On Valentine’s Day, you are expected to show your significant other or “Valentine” how much you really love and appreciate them. Whether it’s dinner and a movie or assorted chocolates, roses, and a cute card, it’s the thought that counts.
After the romantic Valentine’s Day festivities, some love birds will find a quiet comfy place to unwind. And on a day filled with so much love and compassion, some love making is destined to happen, but always remember safe sex is great sex. Even when you are in the “moment”, remember to think about your health as well as your partners.
Sexually transmitted diseases or STIs are very prevalent in our generation. There are 20 million new cases of STIs a year in the United States, with young adults aged 15-24 accounting for 50% of all cases. Which means we as young and responsible adults need to take sex more seriously. Aside from getting your yearly STI testing, having protected sex is the key.
So before diving into the deep sea of love, make sure you are prepared. Here are some things you can do to protect yourself from the dangers of sex:
Condoms:
Male condoms- A condom is a fairly thin covering made of latex, plastic, or animal membrane that is placed and rolled down over an erect penis. Male condoms prevent semen and other sexual and bodily fluids from coming in contact with entering a woman’s vagina.
Female Condoms- A female condom is a lubricated polyurethane or plastic tube that is inserted into a woman’s vagina before sex. There are two flexible rings at each end; one end of the tube is closed. Like a male condom, a female condom is used to protect the vagina from semen and any other sexual fluids that can cause both infection and pregnancy.
Condoms come in many colors, shapes, sizes and even flavors. Condoms are one of the easiest and most accessable forms of contraception. Condoms can be found at your local grocery store or any convenient store. They also aren’t very pricey and are sold in bulk.
Don’t be afraid to ask:
Before engaging in sexual activity with your partner, don’t be afraid to ask him or her if they have had or had any STIs or if they have been tested. Or even if they had maybe had sex with someone who may have had a STI. If you don’t ask, you may be setting yourself up for more than what you bargained for.
Keep your eyes open:
Most of us are not trained doctors but looking for obvious signs of STIs can be a great tip before having sex. Knowing the signs and symptoms of the most common forms of infection can benefit both you and your partner and lessen the chances of spreading or contracting a disease.
So this Valentine’s Day, before you unleash your undying love, remember to protect yourself! #HCXO