We all know how important it is to be aware of safe sex. Every health professional recommends the use of condoms not only because they protect you from pregnancy, but also because condoms reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases. Therefore, it is considered the safest option for use during sex. Because the biggest risk that arises from unprotected sex is the risk of STIs, or sexually transmitted diseases, which can prove fatal.

But if we tell you that the risk of STIs can be reduced despite unprotected sex, you will also be surprised. Yes… according to recent new research, something similar has come to light. Let’s find out what this research showed.

Unprotected sex and the risk of STIs

A clinical study presented at the 24th International AIDS Conference in Montreal, Canada, claims that an antibiotic called doxycycline, when taken after unprotected sex, can significantly reduce the risk of three bacterial sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia in high-risk groups.

Doxycycline reduced the chance of contracting sexually transmitted diseases such as gonorrhea and chlamydia by 60 percent in men who had sex with men. The antibiotic also seemed to be successful against syphilis, but there were not enough cases to give results.

How was the study done?

The study was conducted on 500 people, mostly gay men, as well as transgender women and others from different gender groups. Only those participants who had gonorrhea or chlamydia in the previous year were taken. Meanwhile, some in the group were on the pill for prophylaxis before exposure to HIV, and some carried HIV.

Two-thirds were given 200 mg doxycycline antibiotic tablets, while the rest were not. Participants were encouraged to take as many tablets as they needed. It depends on how much sexual activity they have had.

In the end, it was found that taking antibiotics reduced the risk of sexually transmitted diseases by 62 percent in the group living with HIV and by 66 percent in the group who acquired HIV.

Note : Many of the researchers involved in the study say that antibiotics should not be used after prolonged unprotected sex. It’s not safe.

So what can you do to avoid exposure to STDs or STDs?

Follow these tips to avoid contracting an STD, according to the CDC

diet – Absence of sex (including vaginal, oral or anal sex) is the easiest way to prevent infection.

Get vaccinated – Ask your doctor if you should get the HPV or hepatitis B vaccine.

have limited sexual partners Before having sex with a new partner, take the test together and share your results.

Practice Monogamy – This means that you and your partner only agree to be sexually active with each other.

Use a condom and a dental dam Consistent and correct use of latex condoms is very effective in reducing the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases.