Sex with a new partner is common while traveling despite one's original intentions.

The level of risk of transmission and types of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are not uniform throughout the world. These differences may increase the traveler's risk of infection, enable infection with a resistant strain, cause infections not normally seen in the U.S., or conversely the traveler may introduce a more drug resistant pathogen into a low risk area. In addition to chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, HIV, HPV, syphilis, trichomonas, crabs, scabies and hepatitis B commonly found in the U.S., developing countries are more likely to additionally provide chancroid, lymphogranuloma venereum, and granuloma inguinale.

In a single act of unprotected sex with an infected partner, a young woman has a 1% risk of acquiring HIV, a 30% risk of getting genital herpes, and a 50% risk of contracting gonorrhea.

The only way to be 100% safe is not to engage in activities where you may be exposed to infected body fluids including blood, semen, vaginal fluids and to a lesser extent, saliva. This means not only abstaining from sexual activity, but body piercings and tattoos as well. Why go to all the trouble of protecting yourself from insects and contaminated food if you are going to willingly get poked with sharp objects that may carry disease?

Using latex condoms with water-based lubricants consistently and correctly can lessen the risks. The quality of condoms from developing countries may not be adequate. Bring them from home.

Women who are not currently using an effective birth control method should consider taking emergency contraception (Plan B) along. It is not an indication that you are planning on sexual activity, but another way to protect your health from risks in or beyond your control.