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.
Preventing STIs isn’t about one magic method — it’s about combining several strategies that work together. Condoms, vaccination, testing, PrEP for HIV, honest partner communication and lifestyle factors all play a role. Using a combination gives you much stronger protection than any single approach.
Here’s a full guide.
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Core Prevention Strategies
| Method | Protects Against |
|---|---|
| Condoms | HIV, most bacterial and viral STIs |
| PrEP | HIV (over 99% effective) |
| HPV vaccine | HPV and related cancers |
| Hepatitis A and B vaccines | Hepatitis A and B |
| Mpox vaccine | Mpox |
| Regular testing | Early detection prevents complications and transmission |
| U=U (HIV-positive on treatment) | Zero sexual transmission of HIV |
| DoxyPEP (where available) | Bacterial STIs for MSM |
| Partner communication | Informed decisions |
| Clean injecting equipment | Blood-borne infections |
Physical Protection
Condoms
- External (male) and internal (female) versions available
- Highly effective when used correctly every time
- Use water or silicone-based lubricant
- Avoid oil-based lubricant with latex
- Use from start to finish of sex
Dental dams
Thin latex barriers for oral sex on the vulva or anus. Not everyone uses them, but they reduce STI risk during oral sex.
Medical Prevention
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis)
- Medication taken before HIV exposure
- Over 99% effective at preventing HIV when taken as prescribed
- Free on the NHS through sexual health clinics
PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis)
- Emergency medication after potential HIV exposure
- Must start within 72 hours
- Available at sexual health clinics and A&E
Vaccines
- HPV — routine in UK schools, catch-up available for MSM up to 45
- Hepatitis A and B — free for at-risk groups
- Mpox — for those at higher risk
Testing as Prevention
Regular testing catches infections before they cause complications or spread. Recommended frequency:
- Annually for sexually active adults under 25
- Every 3-6 months for those at higher risk
- With every new partner
- With any symptoms
Communication and Consent
- Discuss recent testing with new partners
- Be honest about your status (HIV, herpes, HPV)
- Agree on protection strategies together
- Respect boundaries and consent every time
Harm Reduction
- Use clean injecting equipment through needle exchanges
- Don’t share personal items like razors or toothbrushes
- Avoid alcohol or drugs clouding decision-making around sex
Lifestyle Factors
- Stop smoking — helps with STI-related cancer risks (HPV, cervical cancer)
- Keep physically healthy — strong immune system fights infections better
- Get regular dental care and vaccinations
- Manage mental health and substance use
Read more: How to avoid STIs | Reducing STI risk | PrEP and PEP
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the single most effective way to prevent STIs?
Abstinence is 100%, but for most sexually active people, consistent condom use plus regular testing offers the best broad-spectrum protection.
Do I still need condoms if I’m on PrEP?
PrEP prevents HIV but not other STIs. Combining PrEP with condoms (or regular STI testing) is the best approach.
How often should I test?
At least annually if sexually active. More frequently with new partners or at higher risk.
Related reading
- Can Condoms Protect Against HIV?
- Why Is an HIV Prevention Vaccine So Difficult to Develop?
- Do Condoms Prevent STIs?
- HIV Treatment as Prevention (TasP)
- How to Prevent HPV
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.
