How to Practice Safe Sex to Prevent STDs and HIV
by: Dr. Paul Chang, General Practitioner, Regis Medical
What is Safe Sex?
Safe sex, or sometimes referred to as “safer sex”, refers to practices that reduce your risk of getting STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases), as well as preventing pregnancy. STDs include HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), herpes, and syphilis. There remains some risk, even though it is called safe sex. Safe sex involves using protection during every sexual encounter, including:
- Oral sex with a condom or dental dam
- Vaginal sex with a male or female condom
- Anal sex with a male or female condom
Safe sex also involves getting tested for STIs and practicing mutual monogamy. Keeping an eye out for sores, blisters, rashes or discharge is important as well. For safe sex to work, it is essential to engage in open and honest communication with sexual partners, to ensure that both parties understand and agree with the steps being taken to protect against STIs and pregnancy.
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What is HIV and STDs?
HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) refers to a virus that attacks the immune system. In doing so, the patient becomes vulnerable to other infections and diseases due to their weakened system. If left untreated, HIV can lead to the development of AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). HIV is a type of STD, meaning that it can be passed from person to person via contact with certain bodily fluids of a HIV patient. This most commonly happens during unprotected sex, or through sharing injection drug equipment.
When the HIV virus has severely damaged your immune system, the disease progresses to AIDS. AIDS causes your body to be vulnerable to potentially life-threatening infections and illnesses as a result of a failing immune system. AIDS cannot be passed from person to person, but the HIV virus can still be transmitted.
STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases), sometimes referred to as STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) refer to diseases that are passed from person to person via vaginal, oral, or anal sex. In very rare occurrences, these diseases can also be spread via intimate physical contact, such as heavy petting. In some cases, STDs will not have apparent symptoms, especially in the early stages.
Common Types of HIV and STDs in Singapore
Types of HIV
There are two main types of HIV, HIV-1 and HIV-2. However, HIV-2 is much more uncommon, typically only found in a smaller number of people, mostly located within West Africa. Therefore, the term “HIV” is usually used to refer to HIV-1, especially in Singapore’s context.
Common examples of STDs in Singapore include:
- Chlamydia, a bacterial infection causing pain or discharge from the genitals. Left untreated, chlamydia can affect the fertility of a woman.
- Gonorrhoea, a bacterial infection causing pain or discharge from the genitals, as well as fever or stomach pain. Left untreated, gonorrhoea can lead to serious health problems.
- Herpes, a viral infection causing sores or blisters on or around the genitals or the mouth. This is a very common STD and many patients are unaware that they have it.
- Human papillomavirus (HPV), a viral infection causing genital warts and even cancer.
- Syphilis, a bacterial infection causing sores, rashes and other symptoms. Left untreated, syphilis can even cause damage to organs such as the heart and brain, which may be life-threatening.
Why is safe sex important?
Safe sex is important because it helps to prevent STDs from being transmitted between people, as well as unintended pregnancies. STDs can lead to serious health consequences, especially when untreated. These can include infertility, cancer, and in rare cases, even death. In addition, STDs can be asymptomatic, meaning that they do not show any symptoms. This makes screening for STDs extremely important. Unintended pregnancies can have a huge impact on one’s life, both financially and emotionally. If you are not ready or intending to have a child, you may want to consider practicing safe sex. Finally, practicing safe sex helps you make informed decisions about your own sexual health and well-being.
How to practice safe sex in Singapore
Condoms are an essential part of safe sex as they are the only type of contraceptive method that offers protection against STDs. However, this is only true when condoms are used correctly and consistently. Condoms also come in different types. Latex and polyurethane condoms are effective in prevent STDs as well as unintended pregnancies. Lambskin condoms, on the other hand, are effective in preventing pregnancies but do not protect against STDs. To ensure that you are properly protected, it is important to use condoms properly. Steps you can take to do so are:
- Checking the expiration date
- Storing them properly
- Following the instructions of use
- Do not reuse any condoms
- Use a new condom for every act of intercourse
- Use the right lubricant
While condoms are effective in protecting against STDs, their effectiveness is not 100%. This means there is still a small chance of getting an STD even while using a condom. To further reduce your risk of contracting STDs, having a monogamous and faithful relationship is an ideal option. If you choose to engage in sexual activities with multiple partners, it is advised that you go for regular screening for STDs to keep yourself safe. You will also want to keep a look out for any sores, blisters, rashes or discharge, as these could be warning signs of an STD.
In addition, if you do not intend to have a child but choose not to use a condom during intercourse, it is advised that you make use of other contraceptive methods to avoid unwanted pregnancies. There are many different types of contraceptives available in Singapore and being educated about them will help you make an informed decision when it comes to your sexual health.
What to do if you suspect you have STDs or HIV?
If you suspect you have any form of STDs, it is vital that you get tested immediately. Early detection is crucial as many STDs can be treated effectively in their early stages, even for STDs such as HIV that is uncurable. By treating STDs early, the chances of serious complications can be greatly reduced. Symptoms can also be effectively managed or minimised. This is especially crucial for those with HIV, as timely treatment can prevent progression to AIDS.
You should visit a healthcare provider, who will prescribe you the appropriate tests based on the symptoms you have. If diagnosed, they will also be able to prescribe appropriate treatment. In addition, you should inform your sexual partners so that they can get tested and treated if necessary.
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