There are many factors that contribute to one’s likelihood of contracting an STI or STD. Locality, lifestyle choices, background and sexuality are what mainly contribute to risk, all playing a role in understanding and promoting safe sex.
Different regions of the country hold different risk levels when it comes to contracting an STI and which type of STI one is most at risk for. Lifestyle choices are also to be considered: Having unprotected sex, becoming involved with multiple partners and even substance abuse can be detrimental, as the unknown and impaired decision making can be a deciding factor. One’s background may also dictate their risk for an STD. For example, women are at a greater risk for an STI than men, and circumcised men are less likely to contract an STI than uncircumcised men. Finally, sexuality and type of sex are also important factors to consider, as STDs affect and spread through homosexual and heterosexual couples differently.
Abstinence, testing, proper protection and vaccines are all great ways to promote safe sex and to curb the spread of STIs, helping to keep us and those around us safe.
