Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs are infections that spread through sexual contact. Many STDs go unnoticed because they do not show any symptoms, especially in women.

STDs could cause severe health problems when left untreated, including infertility, cancer, and AIDS. Knowing your risk of getting an STD can help you take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and your partner. The following six questions could help you assess your risk of getting an STD:.

Question 1: How many partners have you had in the past year?

The more sexual partners you have, the higher your risk of getting an STD. Having multiple partners increases your chances of having unprotected sex and acquiring an STD. It is advisable to limit your sexual partners to one and always practice safe sex.

Question 2: Have you ever had unprotected sex?

STDs transmit through sexual fluids, including semen, vaginal fluids, and blood. Having unprotected sex even once with an infected partner could put you at risk of getting an STD. Always use a condom or other barrier method during intercourse.

Question 3: Have you ever had an STD in the past?

If you have had an STD in the past, including gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, syphilis, or HPV, you could be at risk of getting that same infection again or acquiring another STD.

Some STDs do not have a cure, but they are treatable, and early diagnosis can prevent severe health complications. Regular testing can detect any STD and help you receive timely medical care.

Question 4: Have you ever shared needles or injected drugs?

Drug use is a common cause of transmission of bloodborne STDs like HIV and hepatitis B and C. Using contaminated needles or injecting drugs with an infected partner puts you at risk of getting these infections.

Related Article Are You at Risk? Take This STD Test

Avoid using drugs, and if you must, do not share needles or other paraphernalia. Seek help and support to quit drug use and avoid risks of STDs and other health issues.

Question 5: Have you or your partner been diagnosed with an STD recently?

If you or your partner has recently been diagnosed with an STD, you need to abstain from sex until you complete the treatment course and tests show no infection.

Having sex with an infected partner or having multiple partners concurrently while treating an STD puts you and your partners at risk of contracting or spreading the infection. Always get tested and treated for any STD and inform your sexual partners about your health status to prevent further transmission.

Question 6: Have you had a recent sexual encounter with a new or unknown partner?

Having a sexual encounter with a new or unknown partner increases your risk of getting an STD. You may not be aware of their sexual history or STD status. Always use protection during the first few instances of sexual contact with a new partner.

Avoid engaging in risky sexual activities like group sex or sex with multiple partners, as they can lead to STDs and other complications.

Results:

Based on your responses to these questions, your risk of getting an STD appears to be:.