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Get Vaccinated
Did you know there are vaccines that can protect you from severe cases of STIs? In Switzerland, vaccines are available for Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and Mpox, which are recommended for specific at-risk groups:
- Hepatitis A: Especially important for men, trans, and non-binary individuals who have sex with men, as well as travelers to regions with high Hepatitis A risk.
- Hepatitis B: Recommended for adolescents, adults with changing sexual partners, healthcare workers, and people who inject substances.
- HPV: Protects against for example cervical cancer, anal cancer, penile cancer, and genital warts - recommended for adolescents and young adults.
- Mpox: For men, trans, and non-binary individuals who have sex with men.
It’s important to note that STI risks can vary from country to country. Vaccines not typically recommended in Switzerland may be beneficial for travel. Consult a travel health specialist for personalized advice on STI-related vaccinations.
Use Condoms.
Condoms are a simple and effective way to protect yourself from HIV and unplanned pregnancies. Be sure to bring tested, non-expired condoms with a CE mark or "OK" seal - ideally from home.
Keep in mind: Condoms offer a high level of protection against most sexually transmitted diseases, but it is not 100% protection. Some infections, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea, can be transmitted through oral sex as well as sharing sex toys in addition to vaginal and anal sex. Testing is therefore important in addition to the correct use of condoms.
Understand Transmission Routes.
STIs can be transmitted in various ways - not just through vaginal or anal intercourse but also through oral sex, kissing, shared sex toys, or anal douches. Even intimate shaving can create small skin injuries that increase the risk of infection!
Blood contact also poses risks: sharing needles, syringes, or other equipment during substance use significantly increases the risk of HIV and Hepatitis. The same applies to tattoos and piercings - ensure sterile materials are used.
Get Tested and Treated.
Before or after your trip, an STI test provides peace of mind - especially if you’re traveling to a country with higher infection rates or starting a new relationship. If you test positive, it’s important to inform all sexual partners so they can get tested and treated as well.
Learn About HIV PrEP and PEP.
For individuals at high risk, HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) offers effective protection against HIV. PrEP is a prescription medication taken regularly and is highly effective. However, PrEP only protects against HIV - not other STIs - so condoms and regular testing remain essential.
HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), on the other hand, is an emergency measure that must be started within 48 hours of potential HIV exposure to be effective.
Know Your Options for Contraception and Traveling
In addition to condoms, there are many other contraception methods, such as the pill or emergency contraception. When traveling across time zones, take the pill at the same local time as you would at home (e.g., always at 7:00 AM).
If you experience vomiting or prolonged diarrhea - common while traveling - contraceptive effectiveness may be compromised. If unsure, consult your gynecologist before or during your trip.
Sexual assault and harassment can happen anywhere to anyone. It's never the victim's fault.
Sexual assault can occur in any situation regardless of age, gender, sexual orientation or travel destination. It is never the victim’s fault regardless of the circumstances.
You should follow the same safety rules while you are traveling that you would at home, only more so:
- Share your location and plans with a person you trust.
- Ask local hotels to recommend transportation services and, whenever possible, try to share rides with someone you know. Never accept car rides or hitchhike.
- Don't wear resort wristbands or other items that can easily identify where you're staying or that you are a tourist.
- Watch your drinks as they are being prepared and served and avoid drinking in excess.
- Communicate your limits clearly. If someone starts to cross a line that you have set for yourself, tell them firmly and early. Polite approaches may be misunderstood or ignored. Consent is important – Only Yes means Yes.
- Trust your instincts. If you feel you are being pressured into a situation in which you feel unsafe and/or are being pressured into unwanted sex, get out of the situation immediately.
- Keep on hand relevant emergency phone numbers from your travel destination and try to learn some emergency words or phrases in the local language before you travel.
Understand Cultural and Legal Norms Regarding Sexuality in Your Destination.
In some countries, certain sexual behaviors can have legal consequences. Research local customs to avoid unpleasant surprises - especially in conservative or religious regions.
Whether it’s a holiday fling or planned intimacy, these tips ensure your travels remain carefree. Protect your health, make informed decisions, and enjoy your adventure - safely and worry-free!
Would you like more information? Visit our website under "Sex and Travel" and "Sexual Health Consultation" for detailed resources on this topic. We also recommend our YouTube video on sexual health while traveling, where we explain helpful tips in an easy-to-understand format.