Prevention

Prevention plays a significant role in maintaining healthy and protected sexual practices. It involves a wide range of methods designed to protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). With a comprehensive understanding of the available options, individuals become empowered and proactive in choosing methods that best align with their lifestyles, practices, and relationships.

Barriers:

Internal condoms:

Made of polyurethane*, the internal condom is an effective method in protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and preventing pregnancy. It is inserted prior to intercourse and remains in place for up to 8 hours.

External condoms:

External condoms act as shields or obstacles, preventing direct contact between the penis (and its secretions) and the vagina/frontal opening, cervix, and uterus, reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and preventing pregnancy.

Dental dams:

Dental dams are latex or polyurethane sheets that can be placed between the mouth and the vagina or the anus to prevent the transmission of STIs and other bacterial infections.

Ready-to-use dental dams are not available in Lebanon or many countries in the MENA

region, but you can make them using external condoms. Here’s how:

1. Carefully open the condom package, remove the condom, and unroll it.

2. Cut off the top and the bottom of the condom.

3. Cut down one side of the condom then lay flat over the anus or the vaginal opening.

Condoms are barrier methods that effectively reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) when used consistently and correctly in every sexual encounter. Additionally, incorporating lubrication can enhance efficacy and prevent irritation.

Some express discomfort with condoms. Here are some tips to enhance the experience and make it more enjoyable:

• Add little drops of water-based or silicon-based lubricant inside the condom to enhance the feeling. 

• Condoms come in various sizes and textures. Experiment with different options to find what works best for both you and your partner.

• Involve your partner in the condom selection process.

• Use a condom during masturbation to familiarize yourself with the sensation.

Important notes for using dental dams:

● DON’T reuse a dental dam or an external condom

● DON’T stretch a dental dam because it can break

● Always use water-based lubrication with dental dams

Vaccination:

Available vaccines are effective in preventing certain sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It is important for individuals to discuss vaccination options with their healthcare provider based on their needs and practices.
HPV vaccine:

A preventive vaccine is available and effective against the high-risk types of HPV and genotypes that cause genital warts for both people with vaginas and people with penises. 

However, it does not protect against all types of HPV.

It is also important to note that people between 9 and 45 years old are most likely to benefit from the vaccine.

Hepatitis B vaccine:

A preventive vaccine is available and effective against Hepatitis B. It is important to note that individuals born in 1986 and later received their first dose after birth with boosters a few months later. For individuals born before 1986, it is recommended to discuss vaccination with their healthcare provider.

Pills: 

PrEP: is an acronym for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. It is a highly effective medication that can significantly reduce your chances of getting an HIV infection. PrEP should be taken before HIV exposure and resumed after.

Written by:

Fatima Khalil | Sexual health coordinator

Fatima Khalil is the coordinator of sexual health education and outreach at Marsa Sexual Health Center and is currently pursuing a degree in child education. With more than 7 years of experience in the field of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, she has developed several guidelines and educational materials on proper services provision, sexually transmitted infections, and women's health.

PEP: is a 28-day course of medication and is designed to prevent HIV transmission following recent potential exposure. To be effective, the first dose should be taken within 72 hours of potential exposure. PEP is intended for emergencies only and should not be used on an ongoing basis. Otherwise, individuals may develop drug resistance, as the virus may have more opportunities to adapt to the medications in case HIV is acquired.