References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
You can reduce your risk of catching an STI significantly by combining several prevention strategies. No single method is 100%, but using multiple approaches together gives strong protection. The key is finding what works for your life — consistent realistic protection beats perfect protection you can’t stick to.
Here’s a clear practical guide.
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The Main Prevention Tools
| Tool | Protects Against | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Condoms (external and internal) | HIV, most STIs | Free from clinics, pharmacies |
| PrEP | HIV (99%+ when taken correctly) | Free on NHS |
| HPV vaccine | HPV and related cancers | Free for those eligible |
| Hepatitis B vaccine | Hepatitis B | Free for those eligible |
| Regular STI screening | Early detection and treatment | Free on NHS |
| U=U for HIV-positive partners | HIV transmission eliminated | Part of HIV care |
| DoxyPEP (where available) | Bacterial STIs for MSM | Varies by service |
| Honest partner communication | Informed decisions | Free |
Layered Protection
Combining methods gives the best protection. For example:
- PrEP + condoms — HIV almost eliminated, other STIs reduced
- Condoms + HPV vaccine — most STIs covered
- Regular testing + U=U — HIV transmission eliminated if both partners undetectable
Using Condoms Effectively
- Use every time
- Use from start to finish
- Use plenty of water or silicone-based lube
- Check expiry dates
- Never use oil-based lube with latex condoms
- Don’t use two at once (friction breaks them)
Testing as Prevention
Regular STI testing doesn’t prevent infection directly, but it:
- Catches infections before complications develop
- Lets you treat and stop transmission
- Gives peace of mind
- Supports honest conversations with partners
Recommended Testing Frequency
- Sexually active under 25 — yearly for chlamydia
- New partner — after each new partner
- Multiple partners or MSM — every 3-6 months
- With any symptoms
Vaccination
Vaccines prevent several sexually transmitted infections:
- HPV — routine in UK schools; catch-up available; free for MSM up to 45
- Hepatitis B — routine in childhood schedule; free for at-risk adults
- Hepatitis A — recommended for some groups
- Mpox — available for those at higher risk
Lifestyle Considerations
- Limit alcohol and recreational drugs when making sexual decisions
- Discuss protection with partners before sex, not during
- Carry condoms — they’re no use in a drawer at home
- Have an HIV-positive partner on effective treatment? Trust U=U
What Doesn’t Reduce Risk
- Withdrawal — no STI protection
- Washing after sex — doesn’t eliminate already-transmitted infections
- Urinating after sex — reduces UTI risk but not STI risk
- Thinking “they look healthy” — STIs are often invisible
Read more: Avoiding STIs | PrEP | Condom and lube use
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best single way to reduce STI risk?
Consistent correct condom use remains the most effective broad-spectrum protection. PrEP adds excellent HIV-specific protection.
Does being monogamous protect me?
Only if both partners are mutually monogamous and both have tested clear. Assumptions about monogamy have led to many STI diagnoses.
Is zero risk possible?
Only with abstinence. All sexual activity carries some risk, but a good combination of prevention reduces risk to very low levels.
Related reading
- Blood Test for Syphilis, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C
- Can You Get an STI From Being Fingered?
- Can You Catch an STI From a Toilet Seat?
- Can You Clear HPV Once You Have It?
- Can You Die From Hepatitis B?
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
