Having unprotected sex can result in sexually transmitted infections (STIs) that threaten your health and readiness as a Warfighter. In the short term, STIs may cause discomfort that makes it harder to do your job. Over time, untreated STIs can cause permanent damage to your body that may affect operational performance. While all sexual contact comes with risk, you can take action to protect yourself from STIs.

Have honest, open discussions with new partners: Talk to your partner about their previous sexual behavior, including STI history, before engaging in any type of sexual activity. Ask if they currently have other sexual partners, what STI prevention methods they use, and when they were last tested for STIs. Consider using the 5 Ps of healthy sexual communication as a guide to help keep you and your partner safe from STIs.

Always use condoms: Correct AND consistent use of condoms significantly reduces the risk of getting or spreading HIV and other STIs. Use a condom every time you have sex, especially if you don’t know your partner’s STI status or sexual history. You can get condoms at a variety of stores and health care locations. Learn more about condom use.

Limit your number of sexual partners: The more sexual partners you have, the higher your risk of contracting an STI. You are also more likely to have a partner who is unaware of their STI status, which could put you at risk. Being with a mutually monogamous uninfected partner is the best way to prevent STIs if you are sexually active.

Avoid alcohol and other substances: Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs can impair your judgement. This can lead to risky sexual behaviors, like not using protection and sleeping with a higher number of people. Remain sober when planning to have sex, especially if it is not with a trusted partner.

Get tested for STIs regularly: Many STIs do not have symptoms, so getting tested is the only way to know if you have one. Knowing your STI status ensures that you are able to control and treat the infection before it causes serious health problems. It’s also important that your partner gets tested and you are both aware of each other’s results. Learn more about STI testing.

Get vaccinated for STIs: Vaccination against hepatitis B and humanpapillomavirus (HPV) is recommended for most people. The vaccines are safe and can protect you from the health problems associated with these STIs. You can recieve the HPV vaccine at most military health facilities or by scheduling an appointment with your health care provider.

Consider doxy PEP: Doxycycline post-exposure prophylaxis, or doxy PEP, is a medicine that can reduce your risk of getting certain STIs when taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex. It’s recommended for those at higher STI risk, including men who have sex with men and those with a recent history of infection. Talk to your military health care provider about whether doxy PEP is right for you.

Talk to your health care provider about HIV PrEP: HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis, or HIV PrEP, is a preventive medicine that significantly lowers your risk of contracting HIV when taken as directed. PrEP is recommended for people at increased HIV risk, such as those who have a partner living with HIV. Your military health care provider will prescribe PrEP as needed, along with follow-up testing to ensure it remains safe and effective for you to use.

Keep in mind that abstaining from oral, vaginal and anal sex altogether is the only way to be completely protected from the transmission of HIV and other STIs.
Your mission readiness depends on your ability to protect yourself from STIs. Being honest with new partners and your health care team is a great place to start. To learn more about your STI risk and recommended prevention methods, visit your military health clinic or talk to a trusted provider.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, Dial 988 then Press 1. 

 

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