Prevention & Accidents

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Condoms and Protection against Sexually Transmitted Diseases

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs or STIs sexually transmitted infections) are diseases that you can catch when having sex. Any sexually active person can catch an STI. Especially when you do not use a condom. If you have become infected it is nothing to be ashamed of. STIs are widespread and can be passed on easily – it is just that people only rarely talk about them.

Anyone sleeping with their boy*girlfriend without a condom despite knowing they are suffering from a sexually transmitted disease and without informing the other person can be prosecuted for bodily harm under § 223 StGB or even for grievous bodily harm under § 224 StGB. For the transmission of a fatal disease (Aids) you can even be prosecuted for bodily harm with death.

There is no 100% protection against sexually transmitted diseases. But you can take these precautions to minimise the risk of infection:

  • Use condoms for vaginal and anal sex. Also use condoms when sharing sex toys with others! Condoms protect against HIV and reduce the risk of infection with other STIs.
  • Important: Talk openly and honestly to your partner about STIs (disease, risk of infection, etc.) and safer sex, even if it may be strange or embarrassing to start with.
  • Regular visits to the gynaecologist or the urologist can prevent many issues. Women under the age of 25 can have a free chlamydia test carried out once a year by a gynaecologist.
  • Avoid contact with blisters, warts or ulcers during sex.
  • Get vaccinated against HPV, Hepatitis A and B! Ask your doctor about this.