Should we know a partner’s sexual history? The prevention rules for safe sex – healthmag.gr

Many times, especially at the beginning of a relationship, we want to know the exact number of lovers of our partner. Of course, whether and to what extent we are telling the truth in this question raises a lot of debate… A survey by a beauty product company on over 2,000 men and women in Europe and the USA, asked for their detailed sexual history, wanting to find out the average of their partners, but also any dangerous sexual behaviours. It is known that changing partners is associated with an increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Every year in the summer months we see a significant increase of 30-35% in STDs, especially among young people. Younger people are more inclined to experiment and want to try new experiences. Of course, they should never forget that the use of condoms is more than necessary and necessary, as it “stops” the spread of venereal diseases, some of which are likely to have very serious consequences.

The problem with sexually transmitted diseases is that they don’t always show symptoms and can be transmitted by apparently healthy people who probably don’t even know they’re infected.

New research has found that the number of sexual partners varies by region and that there is no such thing as ‘normal’ or ‘normal’. More specifically in the USA it was found that the average number of sexual partners is 7.2. Louisianans reported an average of 15.7 sexual partners, while Utahns reported 2.6. But in Utah, more than 62% of residents are members of a sect that promotes abstinence from sex until marriage. However, the average between European countries also has differences. For example in the UK the average is seven, in France ten, but in Italy 5.4 romantic partners. At 6.2 the average number of sexual partners in European countries. Men and women in America tend to agree, citing 7.6 and 7.5 partners respectively as the ideal number.

“Pink” revelations

But at what point should someone discuss their sexual history with their partner?More than 30% of the survey participants believe that it is appropriate to have this conversation in the first month of the relationship. 81% believe it is something to talk about in the first eight months. It’s important to share your sexual history early. No fear and no shame. Saying whether or not you have an STD is important. It is also important to visit the specialist before starting sexual contact with a new partner. It may seem scary to talk about your sexual history early in a relationship, but the sooner you talk about it, the better. The research even analyzed gender biases regarding how many partners they had in their lives. Not surprisingly, men are increasing the number and women are decreasing it. In particular, 41.3% of men and 32.6% of women admitted that they lie about their “rosy” past. However, 5.8% of women and 10.1% of men admitted to both increasing and decreasing the number, depending on the occasion. The researchers who elaborated on the study’s findings say it’s completely understandable why some people might be tempted to lie about their sexual activity. As they say: “Outdated societal expectations can lead men to believe they need to increase their numbers to appear more ‘impressive’.” On the other hand, women may feel that they have to reduce their numbers, so as not to be seen as “easy”. In any case, it is important to remember that your sexual history is strictly your personal matter. No one should ever feel pressured to conform to the standards of society or any particular individual.”

Risk factors for STDs

Anyone who is sexually active is theoretically exposed to the risk of contracting sexually transmitted diseases. The factors that increase the specific risk are:

• Unprotected sex. Vaginal or anal penetration by an infected partner who does not wear a condom or uses it incorrectly.
• Oral sex may be considered less dangerous, but diseases can be transmitted when it is done without the use of a condom.
• Changing love partners.
• When someone already has one STD, it is easier to get another.
• Alcohol abuse or drug use, which can lead to reckless sexual behavior.

Prevention rules for safe sex

• We learn how to use condoms correctly.
• If we use lubricant, it should always be water-based.
• We do not share towels or underwear.
• Urination always after sexual act.
• We wash with water before intercourse, but definitely after.
• We are informed by our doctor about the hepatitis B vaccine (three doses).
• We avoid excessive alcohol before sex or sex with people under the influence of alcohol or drugs.