How to Reduce Your Risk of STIs

Jun 8, 2025 | blog, Sexual Health

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) have been a concern across many countries for centuries with specific documentations going back 500 years. These early records highlight their persistent effect on both society and the public health sector. They’re more common than you might think! A person with STI may not always show symptoms and because of this many young people may be unaware of their STI status until it gets to the later stages. The good news? STIs can be prevented. In this blog we will discuss simple proven ways to protect yourself and others.

  1. WRAP IT UP!

The proper and consistent usage of condoms is one of the most effective ways of preventing STIs, including HIV, Gonorrhea and Chlamydia. As a bonus it helps in preventing pregnancy too!

For the best outcome:

  • Use a new condom for every sexual intercourse. Never use two at once as that can potentially lead to breakage.
  • Put it on before ANY skin-to-skin or sexual contact
  • Both external (male) and internal (female) condoms are available. You can use whichever is preferred.
  • Watch how to guides or read the instructions on the box for proper application and usage.
  1. BE POSITIVE THAT YOU ARE NEGATIVE!

As previously mentioned some STIs don’t show any symptoms, with that being said it doesn’t mean that they aren’t harmful. For this reason you should:

  • Get tested at least once a year if you are sexually active.
  • If you have multiple partners or a new partner, test every 3-6 months.
  • Encourage your partner to get tested with you.
  • Testing is available at most public and private health care centers. The first step to protecting yours and your partner’s health, is knowing your status.
  • Routine STI testing usually includes:

HIV test – detects HIV
RPR or VDRL – for syphilis
NAAT test – for gonorrhea and chlamydia
Hepatitis B and C tests – for HBV and HCV
Pap smear with HPV test – for high-risk HPV (in women)
Not all clinics test for everything by default, so it helps to ask for a full STI panel.

  1. TALK THAT TALK BEFORE YOU UNLOCK THE SHOCK!

Bringing up the subject of STIs with a partner might feel uncomfortable at the start but once you do, it can be taken as a sign of respect and maturity.

You can broach the subject by asking:

  • When the last time was that they got tested,
  • If you can get tested together

Or making boundaries clear by saying:

  • That you would be having intercourse with condoms only

These conversations can build mutual trust and keep both parties safe.

  1. PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE!

This is one of the most effective methods for preventing transmission of certain diseases like HPV (Human papillomavirus) and HBV (Hepatitis B Virus). Therefore, we have:

  • HPV vaccine: It protects against human papillomavirus, which is a virus that can potentially lead to cervical cancer.
  • Hepatitis B vaccine: This is recommended for all unvaccinated, uninfected people who are sexually active.
  • Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health provides HPV vaccination for girls aged 9–14 as part of its national prevention program.
  1. KNOW WHAT’S NEW: Doxy-PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis)

Recent studies show that taking a single dose of Doxycycline (an antibiotic) can reduce the risk of any bacterial STI by 46%, with specific reductions of 65% for Chlamydia and 77% for Syphilis. However, this didn’t affect the risk of Gonorrhea infection.

Caution: Always talk to a health provider before using antibiotics this way.

Source: Epocrates 2024, WHO STI Guidelines

  • Where to Go for STI Services in Ethiopia

You can get confidential testing, counseling, and treatment at government local health centers and hospitals, Marie Stopes International, and private clinics.

Final Takeaway:

Protecting yourself from STIs shouldn’t take a backseat because of shame. You should prioritize your sexual health without restrictions.

Knowing this, use condoms, test regularly, ask questions, and if you haven’t yet, get vaccinated.

  • Take control of your health. Start with one small step today.

Written by – Bezawit Elias, 4th Year Medical Student 

True or False; Debunking 7 Common STI Myths

Jun 1, 2025 | blog, Sexual Health

In Ethiopia, widespread myths about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) continue to create unnecessary fear, stigma, and health risks. These misconceptions contribute to preventable infections, which lead to avoidable health complications. So today, let’s inform ourselves about common STI myths, how they harm us and how to deal with them.

 Myth 1: “STIs are only a concern for the uneducated or those in rural areas.”

 STIs affect individuals across all educational levels and geographic locations. Urban and educated populations are also at risk, particularly if they engage in unprotected sex. Anyone sexually active should prioritize safe practices, regardless of background.

 Myth 2: “Only promiscuous people get STIs.”

STIs can infect anyone sexually active, even with one partner, if precautions like condoms or regular testing are ignored. Having multiple sexual partners in itself does not increase the likelihood of contracting a sexually transmitted infection. It is the lack of proper protection and precautions, such as using condoms or getting tested regularly, that puts individuals at risk.

 Myth 3: “Condoms are not necessary in long-term relationships.”

Unless both partners have been tested and are monogamous, trust and commitment alone do not eliminate STI risks. If you’re in a long-term relationship and considering stopping condom use, both partners should get tested for STIs and have an open, honest conversation about exclusivity and sexual health before making that decision.

Myth 4: “Getting tested for STIs means you’re unfaithful or immoral.”

Testing is a critical part of staying healthy. Early STI detection prevents long-term complications and reduces spread. Open, honest and informed conversations help break the shame around testing, making it easier for people to seek care.

 Myth 5: “If I or my partner tested negative once, we’re both safe indefinitely.”

A negative STI test only reflects a person’s status at the time of testing. New exposures can occur, and some infections have window periods during which they may not be detectable. Test regularly, especially if sexually active with new partners, is recommended.

Myth 6: “You can’t get STIs from oral sex.”

While it is true that the risk of transmission is lower for oral sex compared to vaginal or anal sex, it is still possible to transmit certain STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes through oral sex. Only practice oral sex with tested and trusted partners, or utilize barrier contraceptives if available (eg. Dental dam).

Myth 7: “You can tell if someone has an STI by their appearance.”

Most STIs do not present visible symptoms, especially in the early stages. Relying on appearance to assess STI status is unreliable and unsafe. Never assume safety based on appearance, testing is essential.

Additional Misconceptions:

  • “Condoms ruin the mood or reduce sensation.” It’s common to hear that condoms reduce pleasure, but they are designed to be as thin and comfortable as possible while offering essential protection.
  • “STIs aren’t serious.”STIs can cause infertility, cancer or even be fatal, without proper management.
  • “Emergency contraceptives prevent STIs.”Contraceptive pills only prevent pregnancy, not STIs; condoms are needed for dual protection.

As a sexually active adult or adolescent, it’s important to stay informed, practice safe sex, and communicate openly with your partners. 

Written by :- Dr. Hosaena Gebru

 

If I can’t talk to my teacher about puberty, where do I go?

Mar 13, 2023 | blog, Mental Health

Dear Diary,

It’s been a month since my body began to change, and I’m feeling more and more uncomfortable in my own skin. My breasts are growing, and sometimes they get in the way when I’m running or playing sports. I worry that my classmates will make fun of me, and I don’t want to be embarrassed.

I’ve talked to my friend Hayat about these changes, but we’re both going through them at the same time, and we don’t know what to do. We even tried asking our science teacher for advice, but he didn’t seem interested in helping us.

Feeling lost and unsure, we came up with a wild idea. After school, we decided to visit the clinic near our house and see if they could help us. When we arrived, we found a kind nurse at the reception who listened to our concerns and answered our questions.

I learned today that sometimes we have to be brave and seek out answers to our questions, even if it means going outside of our comfort zone. It’s not easy to navigate these changes on my own, but I’m grateful to have Hayat by my side and to know that there are resources available to us.

As I close this entry, I’m reminded that growth can be uncomfortable, but it’s a natural part of life, and I’ll get through it one step at a time.

Yours truly,

What does it feel to be a woman

Mar 4, 2023 | blog, Mental Health

As I was walking back home from school, my mind was filled with conflicting emotions. We were asked in class what it feels like to be a woman. On one hand, I loved the little things that came with being a woman – the way I could style my hair, the way I could feel beautiful and confident. But on the other hand, the burden of societal expectations weighed heavily on me.

At home, I was expected to take on womanly duties – cleaning, cooking, and taking care of the household. Outside, people were constantly commenting on my appearance, making me feel self-conscious and uncomfortable. And at school, while I felt most like myself, I still struggled with the changes that puberty was bringing.

But despite all this, I knew that I could be strong and intelligent, just like I had always wanted to be. And as I entered my house, I was reminded of the love and support of those around me. My favorite teacher, who always made me feel safe, and my friends who laughed and joked with me – they were the ones who truly mattered.

And as I settled into my evening routine, I felt grateful for the little things that made me who I was. The way my hair fell in soft curls around my face, the way my favorite dress made me feel like a princess, the way my laughter filled the room. These were the things that truly made me happy, and I knew that no matter what the world threw my way, I could always hold onto them. 

Because at the end of the day, being a woman was about so much more than societal expectations – it was about being true to myself, and embracing all the little things that made me who I was.

Couples who use contraceptives have more sex !

Feb 24, 2023 | blog, Sexual Health

“From the moment I started using contraceptives, my fear of an unwanted pregnancy was vanquished. I could fully indulge in my sexual desires with my partner, enjoying the thrilling spontaneity that fueled our relationship. It was a liberating experience that shattered the long-held myths and misconceptions about contraception.” Tsgereda Hailu, 26

Although the link between contraception and sexual frequency may not always register as statistically significant, it’s crucial to understand that sexual activity and intimacy are fundamental components of a healthy and happy relationship. However, it’s important to recognize that various factors can influence our libido. Hormonal imbalances, lifestyle choices, and overall physical health can all play a role in our sexual appetite. Therefore, it’s essential to consider these factors when deciding on a contraceptive method, rather than solely focusing on its impact on sexual frequency.

“One key benefit of contraception is the peace of mind it provides regarding unwanted pregnancies. This freedom from anxiety and stress allowed me to fully embrace my sexual experiences and explore my desires without any apprehension.” mentions Meron Baye, 27

Additionally, using contraception allows for a more spontaneous sexual dynamic. With no fear of an unintended pregnancy, couples can experiment with different sexual positions and forms of foreplay without the need to rush or worry about interruptions. This sense of liberation and excitement can lead to a more fulfilling and passionate sex life.

“It lessens the burden on one partner and can foster a greater sense of trust and respect within the relationship” she added

Ultimately, while the relationship between contraception and sexual frequency may not always be clear, By considering various factors that influence our libido and the benefits of contraception, couples can make informed decisions that enhance their sexual experiences and overall relationship satisfaction.

Let’s Talk About Sex, Baby

Feb 16, 2023 | blog, Sexual Health

The start of intimacy is not just about physical touch, it’s about the conscious and vulnerable conversations where you discuss your boundaries, kinks, and expectations. It can be awkward and anxiety-provoking to talk about sex with your partner, but leaning into these difficult conversations is crucial to creating lifelong sexual potential. Our first conversation about sex was a bit strange, as I fumbled to explain my likes and dislikes. But then came a significant moment where he saw through my shyness and I gave it all away. Have you ever wondered where the magic of intimacy actually begins? It starts with vulnerability and the courage to confront uncomfortable topics head-on.

The thought of discussing your sexual desires with your partner may be intimidating, but it takes trust and bravery to communicate effectively. To make this conversation more enjoyable, think about what you want to create together and take risks by sharing your preferences to expand the capacity for pleasure. Even if you’re not exactly sure what you want in the bedroom, it’s important to be honest and curious. Instead of limiting yourself to the traditional definition of sex, try exploring the idea of adult fun in many different ways, with or without genitals, friction, or orgasms. Consider enrolling yourself and your partner in the idea that your sex lives can be a playground for grown-ups, full of diverse options for partnered exploration.

One of the keys to great sex is taking turns speaking and actively listening with an open mind, avoiding judgment and being willing to share feelings of shame or embarrassment. Researchers have identified several universal components of magnificent sex, including present moment awareness, synchronized connection with your partner, erotic intimacy, empathy, authenticity, vulnerability, exploration, and transcendence beyond the physical. Remember that any issues that arise in your sexual relationship can be an opportunity for growth and increased intimacy. With persistence and effort, almost any problem can be solved.

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