Can the Pill Keep Me Safe From STDs?

Is birth control effective in preventing STDs? While the birth control pill is a common and very efficient method of pregnancy prevention, the idea that it can keep you from developing an STD or STI is one of many STD myths. When used appropriately, the pill is not only a very efficient form of birth control, but it also helps regulate periods, reduce acne, alleviate menstrual cramps, and provides various other health advantages, including PCOS treatment. The pill, however, will not stop you from developing an STD or STI.

STD-Preventive Contraception

Most kinds of birth control, including IUDs, patches, and shots, in addition to the pill, do not help guard against STDs because they do not create the essential physical barrier between you and your partner, enabling potential exposure and transmission of infected bodily fluids between partners. Get STD Test and Novelty Clinic in Dubai without any appointment.

Physical prophylactics, such as condoms, are the only kind of birth control that helps protect against STDs. Exterior condoms (usually worn by men) and internal condoms (generally worn by women) help protect against STDs during penetrative sex by providing a vital protective physical barrier between couples. Dental dams (usually used during oral intercourse) are another excellent method of lowering the risk of developing a STI.

Because most STDs transmit through infected blood, sperm, and other genital fluids, condoms and dental dams, when used properly, dramatically minimize the risk of transmission for many STDs. Even with perfect use, they are not 100% effective at protecting you from any sexually transmitted disease or infection.

Certain STDs, such as genital herpes, syphilis, and HPV, can be passed from person to person via skin-to-skin contact. Condoms and dental dams are less effective in preventing transmission in this scenario because they leave a lot of skin exposed and vulnerable to transfer or contraction.

In the case of HPV, a vaccination has been developed to protect against specific strains of HPV that frequently cause cervical cancer and genital warts. While getting vaccinated against HPV is an important preventative precaution for all sexually active individuals since it dramatically reduces the risk of catching these more harmful strains of the virus, it’s crucial to realize that the vaccination does not protect against all strains of the virus. Even if you are immunized, you can get and spread less hazardous types of HPV.

How to Avoid STDs

While there are preventative and protective steps you may take to reduce your risks of developing an STD, none are 100% effective. Yet, if your goal is to have safer sex, as it should be, there are still actions you can take to ensure you and your partners have the safest experience possible.

Some variables, such as having numerous sexual partners at the same time and/or having intercourse without any sort of protection, can raise your chances of developing an STD. Whether you’re in a committed relationship or have several sexual partners, there’s always a risk of STD exposure if you’re not communicating honestly with your partner(s), and vice versa. It is critical to have open dialogues with your spouse about your sexual health and sexual health status (s). While starting these talks may feel uncomfortable and embarrassing, they are necessary and will only lead to safer, and hence more enjoyable, sex.

Being tested on a regular basis is even more crucial than having honest chats with your partners. Many STDs are asymptomatic, which means that a person can have and actively spread an STD despite exhibiting no symptoms and believing they do not have an STD. Untreated and undetected STDs can occasionally lead to additional more serious health concerns and complications, in addition to accidentally transferring an STD. It is best to get tested if you suspect you have been exposed to or got an STD, or even if you are unsure. STD testing is quick, simple, and painless, and it is the only definite way to know if you don’t have an STD.

Conclusion

So, does birth control prevent STDs? While the pill is an excellent method of birth control, it does not protect you against sexually transmitted diseases or infections. It is critical to take charge of your sexual health by implementing strategies that lower your STD risk (e.g. condoms and dental dams). But, keep in mind that even these precautions may not completely eliminate your risk. As a result, it’s always best to have fun, stay safe, and get tested on a regular basis.