Safer Sex Guidelines

What Constitutes Safe Sex?

Strictly speaking, most health professionals would tell you that no kind of sexual contact with another person is 100% safe. Anyone could have a sexually transmitted disease, and even kissing can spread illnesses like herpes, so the only way to be absolutely certain that you can't catch anything is to avoid having sexual contact with other people. However, if you have sex with one other person, you're both free of STDs, and you only ever have sexual contact with each other, you should be reasonably safe.

It's important to note that while using a condom can prevent the transmission of some STDs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, and herpes, condoms may not be as effective against HIV or syphilis. Using a condom is definitely a good idea, but it's not a 100% guarantee.

Rules to Follow to Have Safer Sex

  • Limit your sexual activities to one partner who is only having sex with you.
  • Before becoming sexually active with someone new, have an open and candid discussion about your sexual history, including previous partners, STDs, and any drug use that could have spread disease.
  • Use a condom or dental dam (as appropriate) every time you have sex. When using condoms, your best choice is latex; if or your partner have a latex allergy, you can use polyurethane instead. Do not use condoms made of natural materials, which do not protect as well against STDs.
  • Do not rely on spermicides to protect you from HIV. The science is inconclusive about whether spermicides containing nonoxynol-9 can offer protection against HIV. Whether or not you choose to use a spermicide, always use a condom.
  • If you're having anal sex, always change the condom before having vaginal or oral sex.
  • When having oral sex, use a condom or dental dam to prevent the spread of diseases from the mouth to the genitals or vice versa.
  • Do not have sex when you are drinking or using drugs. Both of these increase the odds that you will have risky sex.
  • Do not douche after sex. This does nothing to prevent an STD, and it can actually push viruses and bacteria further up into the reproductive tract.
  • Be aware of your body and that of your partner. Watch for things like genital sores, a rash, or unusual discharge, all of which could be signs of an STD.
  • Have yourself tested regularly. This should include an STD screening as well as a Pap smear for women.
  • Consider opting for sexual activities that do not involve exchanging bodily fluids or bringing mucous membranes into contact. Using a sex toy or your hands on a partner can be a lot safer while still being enjoyable.

Additional Reading on Safer Sex and STD Prevention

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