What is Safer Sex?
“Be safe!”
“Wear protection!”
“Don’t do anything you’ll regret!”
These sentiments, and more, were most likely heard by you at some point in your adolescent life as you worked your way through hormones and puberty. It was in these moments your parents hoped that you had paid attention in health class, understand the various protection options, and are doing what you should be to keep yourself safe when it comes to sex.
Safe Sex or “Safer Sex?”
“Safer sex” refers to any action we take to lower our overall risk, and our partners’ risk, of sexually transmitted infections. So many people simply refer to this type of sex as “safe sex,” but that just is not the case. No type of sexual intercourse or sexual activity can be 100% safe at any time or guaranteed as such. This is true because many people who are currently carrying a sexually transmitted disease inside of their bodies have no idea that this is happening and show no outward symptoms or signs.
The most important and worthwhile way to reduce the risk of infection is for people to avoid exchanging bodily fluids. The fluids to be most cautious about are vaginal fluids, pre-ejaculate fluids, ejaculate and semen, blood, and discharge from open wounds caused by STIs.
Safer Sex Guidelines
By following these guidelines, you can ensure that you are practicing the safest types of intimate acts and sex acts possible.
- Take a moment of pause before beginning sexual acts with a new person. First be sure to cover the history of sexually transmitted diseases, past partner history, and drug use.
- Use condoms every time you have sexual acts. Chose a male condom made of latex or polyurethane- avoid “natural” materials. Female condoms are made from polyurethane and are safe for those with a latex allergy or sensitivity.
- Spermicides made with nonoxynol-9 do help to kill sperm in semen but have not been proven to protect against or kill the HIV cells in lab testing.
- Avoid drinking alcohol or doing illicit drugs in large groups, which may increase your risk of participating in high-rick sexual activity.
- Females should not douche after intercourse. This does not offer any protection against STIs, could interfere with spermicidal protections, and can offset the natural pH of the vagina.
- Have regular medical testing including Pap smear tests, pelvic exams, and periodic tests for STIs.
Safer Sex Practices
Consider these safer sex practices when working to keep yourself, and your partner, safe.
- Using a latex or lamb skin condom to cover the penis for oral sex.
- Using latex or internal condoms for vaginal or anal intercourse.
- Practicing oral sex instead of unprotected vaginal or anal intercourse.
- Using a Glyde dam, cut-open condom, or plastic wrap from the kitchen to cover the vulva and/or anus for oral sex.
- Practice forms of outercourse such as kissing, mutual masturbation, or body grinding/rubbing with clothes on.
- Using a finger condom when doing sexual acts with fingers.
Do’s & Don’ts of Condoms & Dental Dams
DO:
- Use natural latex or new polyurethane condoms and dental dams when engaging in oral sex.
- Read the packaging directions carefully and verify the expiration date is valid.
- Ensure there are no tears or defects before using.
- Put the condom on before the sex acts begin and keep it on until finished.
- Use water-based or silicone-based lubrication to prevent breakage.
- Store dental dams and condoms in a cool, dry place.
DON’T:
- Do nut reuse any condom or dental dam.
- Do not stretch or pull them too tight.
- Do not use nonoxynol-9 as it may cause irritation or breakdown of the material.
- Avoid using products that contain oil, like baby oil, lotion, petroleum jelly, cooking oil, or even coconut oil in some cases. These can cause breakdowns.
- Do not flush the condom or dental dam down the toilet, as this can block plumbing.
By following these suggested guidelines and practices, you can ensure that you are having the safest sex possible while finding the pleasure and connection you desire. Questions about safer sex practices? Do not hesitate to reach out to our Reclaiming Intimacy team, or to your medical care team.
Resources Used:
Planned Parenthood
NIH