**9. Prevention of bacterial STDs**

**Abstain:** When there is no open discussion about a sexual partner's past sexual health history, abstaining from sexual activity is the most efficient strategy to avoid STIs.

*Bacterial Sexually Transmitted Disease DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.105747*

**Communicate and double-check:** Always discuss safe sex prior participating in just about any substantial sexual contact. Because sexually transmitted illnesses do not often show symptoms, it is possible to be infected without realizing it. So, avoid vaginal and anal intercourse before checking for STDs. Oral sex was not without risks, but it is less dangerous. To avoid direct touch, use a latex condom or a dental dam.

**Use condoms and dental dams consistently**: If abstinence is not the first choice, use latex condoms to decrease the possibility of getting infected with sexually transmitted illnesses. When using a latex condom or dental dam, avoid using petroleum lubricants like petroleum jelly. Furthermore, condoms composed of natural membranes are ineffective at preventing STDs.

**Avoid excessive alcohol or drugs**: People who are prone to consuming excessive alcohol or drugs are more likely to take sexual risks [5].
