Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)are because of intimate contact with a partner living with an STI.
The more sexual partners you have, the more likely you are to be exposed to an STI.
But there are other risk factors as well.
Verywell / Theresa Chiechi
Some STIs are due to viruses, while others are due to bacteria.
However, people who are pregnant can also transmit some STIs via vertical transmission or through breast milk.
STD vs. STI
You may also hear the termsexually transmitted infection (STI).
Technically, there is a difference between the two.
STIs are infections that cause STDs.
For example, chlamydia (an STD) is brought on by a sexually transmittedChlamydia trachomatisbacterial infection.
However, in the context of your risk, you might consider the two terms interchangeable.
But itmay not offer protection against herpes and other infections spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Lifestyle Risk Factors
There are many things that you could do to protect yourself against STIs.
Here are common lifestyle risk factors forSTIsand what you should know about each.
First, young women are more biologically susceptible to STIs than older women.
Their bodies are smaller and they are more likely to experience tearing during intercourse.
Their cervixes also aren’t fully developed and aremore susceptible to infectionby chlamydia, gonorrhea, and other STIs.
This applies even if you are using birth control such asthe pillor anintrauterine rig (IUD).
Once protected from pregnancy, some people arereluctant to use condomsas part of their sexual routine.
Prescription birth control does not protect you from STIs.
Dual protection with the additional use of condoms is best.
A History of STIs
Having one STI frequently makes you more susceptible to infection by other STIs.
It’s easier for another pathogen to infect tissue that is already irritated, inflamed, or blistered.
Furthermore, people with multiple partners tend to have partners with multiple partners.
This is referred to as serial monogamy.
But monogamy is only an effective way to preventSTIs in long-term relationshipswhen both of you have tested negative.
Additionally, some tests aren’t reliable until you’ve been living with the STI for some time.
Unfortunately, many serially monogamous relationships don’t last long enough for that to be a viable option.
Alcohol Use
Drinking can be bad for your sexual health in many different ways.
Alcohol also lowers inhibitions.
Drugs may also make it easier for someone to pressure you into engaging in sexual behaviors.
Injection drug use, in particular, is associated with an increased risk of blood-borne pathogens such asHIVand hepatitis.
7 Tips For Preventing STDs
A Word From Verywell
STIs are largely preventable.
Frequently Asked Questions
STIs are very common, resulting in millions of new infections every year worldwide.
Some STIs show no symptoms, which is why prevention and testing are important.
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