5 Tips For Safe Sex

Safe sex is a way to have sexual intercourse without the risks of STIs. It also goes by other names like protected sex or safer sex. While many practices and products are designed to make sex more safe, they still don’t completely eliminate STI risk. Below are a few tips to help you enjoy safe sex.

Contraception

Contraception is a way to avoid sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in both men and women. You should talk to your doctor about what type of contraception is right for you. Contraception is available free from your doctor or from a sexual health service. These services will give you advice about sex, pregnancy, abortion, and STIs. Contraception should only be used when you’re ready for sex and not if you are forced into it by another person.

Although there are no national data on the combined use of barrier and nonbarrier contraceptives, several empirical studies have explored the combined use of contraceptives for the two purposes. One local study from Baltimore found that most black women used contraception for both pregnancy and STD prevention, with the highest rates found among those who used oral contraceptives.

Condoms

One of the easiest ways to avoid sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) is to use condoms. These are small, convenient, and easily available. They can be easily carried around in a purse or backpack and can be purchased from drugstores, health clinics such as Planned Parenthood, supermarkets, and even vending machines. You don’t need a prescription to use them, and they’re available for people of any age.

Condoms can be used in anal and vaginal sex. When used properly, they reduce the risk of STIs such as gonorrhoea and genital herpes. You can even buy condoms that come in a variety of flavors. When you’re done using them, make sure to dispose of them properly.

Lubricants

Lubricants can help improve the safety and pleasure of sexual activity. Studies have demonstrated that their use results in improved sexual health and wellbeing. This information can be used to develop guidelines and improve access to lubricants. However, a variety of barriers remain to making these products accessible to more people.

Water-based lubricants are the most popular choice. These lubricants will not stain bed linens and are safe to use with latex contraceptives. Water-based lubricants can be replenished easily with water. Oil-based lubricants may stain sheets and may interfere with condoms. However, they can also double as massage oils.

Many women experience vaginal dryness, which can lead to pain and discomfort during intercourse. People who are breastfeeding, on certain medications, or have certain health conditions such as breast cancer or Sjogren’s syndrome are more susceptible to vaginal dryness. In these cases, lubricants are recommended to relieve discomfort during intercourse. Using lubricants can reduce the risk of staining but cannot prevent vaginal atrophy.

Barrier methods

Using barrier methods can help you prevent sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV. While barrier methods are not 100% effective, they can reduce the chances of contracting an STI. These barriers may include condoms, regular STI screenings, and limiting the number of partners. Learn more about barrier methods for safe sexual activity.

Barrier methods include a condom or a diaphragm containing a spermicide. These methods can also prevent pregnancy by blocking the sperm from reaching the egg. However, they can also cause vaginal irritation and an increase in the risk of urinary tract infections. Women should talk to their doctors and healthcare providers before using barrier methods.

Another type of barrier method is a female condom. A female condom has a small pouch that is inserted into the vagina and a large ring that is outside the vagina. The external condom catches sperm and pre-ejaculate as they pass through the vagina.

HIV transmission from oral sex

Oral sex is an activity that involves kissing, stroking and stimulating the lips, tongue and genitals of another person. It can occur between heterosexual and homosexual partners. The risk of HIV transmission during oral sex depends on the viral load of the HIV patient and the dental condition of the sex partner. Oral sex can also transmit other sexually transmitted infections. Therefore, regular sexual health checks are recommended.

HIV can be transmitted through saliva, mucous membranes, blood, semen, and vaginal secretions. It is also spread through saliva, tears, sweat, and tick bites. People who have oral sex are more likely to contract HIV. Fortunately, HIV can be prevented through HIV treatment and PrEP.