Five Steps to a Healthier Sex Life

1. Use a condom every time you have sexual intercourse!

Latex condoms offer the best protection against sexually transmitted infections for people having sexual intercourse.

Condoms work!

In a 1987-1991 study of couples in which one partner had HIV, all 123 couples who used condoms every time for four years prevented transmission of HIV. In 122 couples who did not use condoms every time, 12 partners became infected.

A similar 1993 study showed that using condoms every time prevented HIV transmission for all but two out of 171 women with male partners with HIV. However, eight out of 55 women whose partners didn't use condoms every time became infected.

2. Talk with your partners before the heat of passion, and use a condom every time!

Partners should care about each other and be interested in one another's pleasure, comfort, and health.

Be open. Let your partner know your health concerns and sexual health history, and encourage your partner to be open, too.

Be direct. Talk about your sexual needs and expectations.

Be persistent. Don't let your partner remain silent on these issues.

3. Keep medically fit, and use a condom every time!

· Have a checkup for sexually transmitted infections every year.

· Protect your immune system. Eat well, get enough rest, and limit your use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs.

4. If you think you or your partner has a sexually transmitted infection ...

· See a clinician for testing, diagnosis, and treatment.

· Find out if your partner(s) need to be examined and treated, too.

· Use all the medication that is prescribed—symptoms often disappear before an infection is cured.

· Do not take anyone else's medicine, and do not share yours.

· Do not have sex until your infection is under control ... then use a condom every time!

5. Stay in charge, and use a condom every time! .

Alcohol and other drugs weaken good judgment and self-control. Don't let them jeopardize your self-control.