STDs: Open Relationships Safer Than Cheating

A cheating lover is more likely to pick up and spread an STD than a person in an open relationship, according to a new study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine. The reason may be connected to drugs and booze, which are used 64% more in unfaithful hookups. This correlates to a lower rate of condom use when compared to romantic encounters involving people in "negotiated, non-monogamous" relationships, reports io9.

"If people do not find monogamy appealing or feasible, they clearly need to think about the risk this poses to their partner and consider whether an open relationship would suit their needs better, and better protect their relationship partners," says one of the researchers. (More STD stories.)