Prevention methods for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) include:

• Correctly using a male latex or polyurethane condom with every act of vaginal intercourse, anal intercourse and oral sex (mouth-to-genital contact). Although male latex condoms are not 100 percent effective, they significantly reduce the risk of transmission. Female condoms offer some protection from STDs, but are not as effective as male latex condoms. Condoms do not provide protection against sores on areas not covered by the condom. Using a water based lubricant with condoms will reduce breakage.
  
  
• Refusing to have sex with someone who will not wear a condom.
  
  
• Washing the vagina with soap and water after sexual activity. This may help to eliminate parasites and bacteria that may have entered the vagina.
  
  
• Urinating after sexual activity. This may help to eliminate bacteria that may have entered the urethra.
  
  
• Performing regular genital self-examinations to become familiar with the normal appearance of the genitals. This knowledge will help to identify any symptoms that may develop if a person is exposed to an STD.
  
  
• Abstaining from sex during menstruation. During menstruation, women who have HIV/AIDS are more infectious and women who do not have the disease are more likely to become infected. Using a condom during menstruation can reduce this risk.
  
  
• Avoiding douching. Douching removes the protective bacteria normally found in the vagina. As a result, a woman is more likely to become infected by an STD.
  
  
• Avoiding anal intercourse. The rectum and anus contain a large amount of bacteria. Contact with these bacteria can cause STDs in both women and men. In addition, the mouth, vagina and penis should not be exposed to any object that has been in contact with an anus or rectum. If anal intercourse is preferred, a male latex condom should always be used.
  
  
• Using caution when sharing sex toys. Because STDs can be transmitted through shared bodily fluids, individuals should use condoms with sex toys when appropriate.

The only 100 percent effective way of preventing STDs is abstinence (not engaging in any form of sexual activity at all). For people who choose to participate in sexual activity, the risk can be lowered by using condoms and limiting their number of sexual partners. The risk is significantly lowered by having one sexual partner who does not have any other sexual partners and who does not have an STD.

In addition, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the first human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine last year. The vaccine offers protection against two types of HPV that cause the majority of cell changes (dysplasia) that lead to cervical cancer. The federal Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended the vaccine series be given to 11-12 year old girls, but it added that it could be started as early as nine years old if necessary. Ideally, the vaccine should be given before females are sexually-active. Their recommendations also include giving the vaccine to women aged 13 to 25 years because of its protective benefits. The vaccine is considered to be the best prevention method of genital HPV for females.

Women also are encouraged to discuss their sexual history with their sexual partner and to ask their partner about their history. These discussions are important regardless of gender. Women who have sex with women are also at risk for STDs. Partners should also discuss drug habits, and whether testing for STDs is necessary. These screening tests can be conducted during routine medical check-ups. Testing is particularly important at the beginning of a new sexual relationship. 

Because a partner may be dishonest about their drug use, sexual history or the fact they have been tested, women are encouraged to look for signs and symptoms of STDs on their partner. Although many STDs do not always have noticeable symptoms, a woman should never engage in sexual activity with a partner who is visibly showing symptoms of an STD. In addition, women are encouraged to abstain from engaging in sexual activity with a partner who is being treated for a curable STD. The disease may be transmitted at any time until the course of treatment is complete.