Profriend's Support Site

• Not having sex is the best way to protect yourself from HIV/STDs.

• Having sex with only one uninfected partner who only has sex with you is also safe.

• Talk to your partner about past sex partners and about needle drug use. Don't have sex with someone who you think might have an STD.

• Before you have sex, look closely at your partner for any signs of STDs: a rash, a sore, warts, or discharge. If you see anything you are worried about DON'T HAVE SEX! (but just because you don't see anything doesn't mean they're healthy - you can't see HIV-AIDS and other STDs.)

• Use a condom for vaginal, anal and oral sex. Condoms will help protect you from STDs MOST of the time.

• Get checked for HIV/STDs regularly Ask your health care provider to help you decide how often and which tests you should have. Clinics like Planned Parenthood often offer free or low-cost services.

• Know the signs and symptoms of STDs. If you notice a symptom that worries you, get checked out right away.

• Don't wait to get tested and treated - some of these diseases can cause severe brain damage or death if left alone.

• If you find you have an STD, your recent and current partner(s) must get tested and treated too. Save others - tell them!

• If you have an STD, don't have sex until treatment is complete.