Monthly Health Promotion Message

Let's Talk about Sex[ually transmitted infections]

Reduce the Risk of STIs

As with many aspects of life, there are both benefits and risks associated with being sexually active, the latter including sexually transmitted infections (STIs). When left untreated, STIs can cause serious and permanent health problems. STIs can be sneaky; many don't show symptoms. People with asymptomatic infections may be unaware of an STI but can still share that infection with an unprotected sexual partner.

Condoms reduce the risk of HIV, STIs that spread by genital fluids (like chlamydia or gonorrhea), genital ulcer diseases (like herpes or syphilis), and cancer causing STIs (like HPV).

Condoms work best when we understand how to use them! 

• Use quality condoms. Check the expiration date and for any rips or tears. Condoms are more susceptible to breaking after the expiration date. And, broken condoms are not effective.
• Open the condom carefully. Make sure not to tear the condom. If it does tear, throw it away and get a new one. A broken condom won't protect you or your partner.
• Put the condom on an erect penis BEFORE contact with a partner's genitals. Condoms can't protect us from infection if they aren't on.
• Use a new condom if you want to have sex again or if moving from the anus to the vagina. Don't reuse condoms. 

Condoms are FREE!

Free condoms are available at the Dallas County Health Department during regular business hours. Condoms can be picked up at 25747 N Ave. Suite C in Adel between 8:00AM-4:30PM Monday through Friday. Simply walk in and grab some out of the container. No questions asked.

Think you know a lot about condoms?

February is National Condom Month! Join the American Sexual Health Association for a virtual Condom-Themed Trivia Night February 22nd. Register at ASHASexualHealth.org