Reducing the Risk for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

Objectives Quick review of STD/STIs Discuss ways to reduce risk for STDs Examine how condoms can reduce risk for STDs Discuss what increases and decreases condoms effectiveness

Quick Review STDs or STIs (I = infection) Transmitted by oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse Some are curable, others treatable Some common STDs Chlamydia Gonorrhea Syphilis Human Papilloma virus (HPV) Genital Herpes HIV

How can you decrease the risk of STDs? Abstinence: not engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal intercourse Use an FDA-approved method FDA: US Food and Drug Administration Oversees medications, food safety, cosmetics, medical and veterinary products and much more, including condoms

Condoms A barrier method that reduces the chance for exchange of body fluids It is rolled onto an erect penis and catches ejaculate (semen) To be effective, a new condom must be used with every act of intercourse

Do’s and Don’ts of Condom Use DO use a latex condom. DO use a condom each and every time. DO check the expiration date. DO check to make certain the wrapping is intact. DO use water-based or silicone-based lubricants, such as KY Jelly, Astroglide, or Eros.

Do’s and Don’ts (continued) DO NOT use a condom more than once. DO NOT use two condoms at the same time. The friction between the condoms may cause them to tear. DO NOT “flip” the condom. If the condom is placed upside down, a new condom must be used. DO NOT use oil-based lubricants (like petroleum jelly or baby oil). They can cause the condom to break.  DO NOT use a condom if the individual condom packet is ripped or expired.

Any questions?

Condom Line Up Need 11 volunteers As a group, discuss the appropriate steps to use a condom. Line up in order, from first step to last. Read aloud what is on your card. Does the remainder of the class agree that this is a correct way to use a condom? What are some common errors that occur with condom use? What other steps might one take to increase the effectiveness rate of a condom?

Steps of Condom Use Discuss safer sex Agree to have sex Choose and buy latex condoms Store in a cool, dry place Carefully remove condom from package, after checking expiration date Squeeze air from tip of condom, then place on head of penis Unroll condom onto erect penis before ANY sexual contact Have intercourse Hold onto the rim of the condom and withdraw the penis Carefully remove condom and throw it away Wash up

Create a Condom Ad A creative and appropriate name for your condom with two adjectives Explain what a condom is Three considerations for condom use (example, should be latex) Include a “Don’t” for condom use (example, store in wallet) Include color and visuals for appeal