Stay informed and stay safe. Most infections can be treated and controlled. Many STIs are curable. The quicker you get tested and treated, the better the outcome will be. Prevention is always the best medicine!
Abstinence: The Most Effective Way to Prevent STIs
When it comes to protecting yourself from sexually transmitted diseases (STIs), abstinence is the only 100% effective method. By avoiding sexual activity altogether, you completely eliminate the risk of contracting infections that can be spread through sex. Unlike other preventive measures, abstinence requires no medical intervention, has no side effects, and provides absolute protection against STIs.
Condoms and Barrier Methods
Issue: Reduced effectiveness, human error, and incomplete protection
- Not 100% effective: While condoms reduce the risk of STIs, they do not eliminate it entirely. STIs like HPV, herpes, and syphilis can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact in areas not covered by a condom.
- Breakage and slippage: If a condom tears, slips, or is used incorrectly, its effectiveness drops significantly.
- Human error: Many people do not use condoms consistently or correctly, further increasing their risk of infection.
Why Abstinence is the Best Choice
Unlike other methods, abstinence guarantees full protection from all sexually transmitted infections. It eliminates physical, emotional, and financial burdens associated with STIs, such as medical costs, lifelong treatments, and emotional stress. Additionally, abstinence aligns with values of self-control, respect, and responsibility, allowing individuals to make decisions free from pressure, risk, or regret.
For those choosing to be sexually active, education, commitment to monogamy, regular testing, and safe practices are essential—but even these methods do not offer full protection. Abstinence remains the only 100% effective way to stay STI-free and maintain optimal sexual health.
Spiritual Considerations
From a biblical standpoint, we are called to abstain from sexual relationships before marriage. After years of study, I have come to understand a deeper reasoning behind this command.
Our spirit belongs to God and is completely sealed, untouched by external influences. However, our soul is more vulnerable. This is where Satan can gain access, bringing temptation, emotional turmoil, and spiritual struggles.
Sexual relationships create soul ties, deep emotional and spiritual bonds that connect us to our partners. These ties can extend beyond the individuals involved, linking us to their past relationships, emotional baggage, and even generational struggles. When we engage in sexual intimacy outside of God’s design, we risk opening doors to spiritual and emotional burdens that were never meant to be ours.
A broken heart and a wounded soul are often one and the same. When these soul ties are severed—whether through heartbreak, betrayal, or separation—the effects can be devastating. This is why Scripture urges us to guard our hearts and keep our bodies and souls aligned with God’s will. “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23)
By honoring God’s design for intimacy, we protect ourselves from unnecessary heartache, spiritual oppression, and emotional turmoil. True freedom and peace come from following His guidance and preserving our hearts for the covenant of marriage.
