If you’re allergic to latex, you can also use polyurethane condoms, which offer some protection against STIs. Natural or lambskin condoms offer reliable protection against pregnancy, but the material isn’t fine enough to prevent the transmission of some infections, making them less reliable for that purpose. Make sure to properly place the condom on the erect penis. Doing this together can create a more intimate experience. Remember, both partners are responsible for safe sex. If you are sexually active, you should always have a supply of condoms on hand. Make sure to regularly check the expiration date, too. Condoms do not typically break when used properly; however, if the condom rips or tears during intercourse, make sure that both partners get tested within 10 days.
You should never use an internal and external condom at the same time. That can cause friction that will tear one or both of the condoms, making them ineffective. Make sure to carefully read the instructions on the packaging. You want to ensure that you properly insert the internal condom. You will insert the internal condom in a similar manner as inserting a tampon. The penis or strap-on should be inside the internal condom during intercourse. It is unlikely that the internal condom will break if used correctly; however, if there is a tear, make sure to visit your physician to get tested within 10 days.
Make sure the latex doesn’t have any holes, tears, or other damage. Rinse off any cornstarch if necessary, as this can promote vaginal infection. Cover the genitalia or anus while performing oral sex. Never switch back and forth between the vagina and anus without first replacing the dental dam. Discard after use.
Make sure to read the ingredients on the package. Don’t use an oil-based lube on a latex condom. It will break down the latex. Instead, choose an water-based lubricant. Silicon-based lubes are also a good choice. You can also use lubricants to make dental dams more supple and less likely to tear.
Phone sex or sexting Mutual masturbation Cyber sex
Deep kissing Fondling Experimenting with sex toys such as dildos or vibrators. Keep sex toys clean. Always wash them between uses, and never use one that you’re not sure is clean. A weak solution of disinfectant in a bowl of water is a cheaper option. Rinse the toys well and be sure to dry them before storing them in a sealed bag in a clean and dry environment. Do not share sex toys with partners you aren’t fluid-bonded with since you can spread infections this way.
Ask your partner to go with you if you’re nervous. It’s not lame to request that your partner do this enthusiastically and willingly. If your partner doesn’t want to go together, ask them to go on their own and share the results with you. You can try saying, “I respect your need for privacy. But please remember that this affects both of our bodies and health. We need to share this information with each other. " If your partner is not willing to practice safe sex, find another partner. [7] X Research source
For example, you should know that one of the most common STIs, chlamydia, often has no symptoms. For that reason, it is often unknowingly passed to others. Ask your doctor to test for all STIs before you sleep with a new partner. Genital warts are another common STI. These warts are easily spread by skin-to-skin contact. The flesh-colored bumps may look similar to cauliflower. Your doctor can help you find the best treatment plan. Many STIs don’t have visible symptoms; however, if you see any abnormalities on your partner’s genitalia, you should avoid having sex until they have visited the doctor. Know your body. If you notice any changes in your body, visible or not, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor. You’re always better safe than sorry.
The CDC recommends the HPV vaccine be given between the age of nine and 26. Before the age of 15, it’s administered in two doses over six months to a year; afterwards, it is given in three doses over six months. While the HPV vaccine was formerly only recommended for cisgender women, it’s now recommended that anyone receives it, regardless of sex or gender. The CDC recommends the Hepatitis A vaccine for all children, males who engage in intercourse with other males, and illegal drug users. There are many populations who should receive the Hepatitis B vaccine. These groups include: Children under 19 who have not previously been vaccinated Intravenous drug users Males who have sex with males Individuals with HIV or chronic liver disease
For example, maybe you learn that you have contracted gonorrhea. Your doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics as a treatment. For this, and any infection, make sure to take the medicine exactly as instructed. Ask your doctor if you have any questions, or are concerned about side effects. Tell your partner. You need to say, “I need you to know that I was recently tested for STIs. I have gonorrhea. You need to get tested as soon as possible. "
Ask a lot of questions. You can say, “My partner is HIV-positive. What extra steps can we take to make sure that I remain negative?” Keep the lines of communication open. If you or your partner have questions, make sure to ask. It is possible to have a healthy and happy sex life with someone who has tested positive. You just need to make sure that safety is always part of your routine.
Always take hormonal birth control correctly. Hormonal birth control is incredibly effective, but only when taken properly and consistently. You need to take your pill at the same time each day, and avoid smoking, which can increase your blood-pressure and other cause dangerous health concerns. Pay attention to how your body responds to the hormones, and discuss any concerns. It sometimes takes some experimenting to get the right medication. Set an alarm on your phone to remind you to take your pill and do it at the same time each day.
The Depo-Provera shot is another option, administered every few months. Intrauterine devices/systems (IUDs or IUSs) are also options to consider. Use both birth control and condoms to reduce the risk of pregnancy and STIs. Using other kinds of contraceptives in addition to condoms is the best way to practice the safest kind of sex. You can have fun with your partner in a more worry-free environment.
At most, these methods are about 90% effective, on average, making them somewhat less reliable than other methods of birth control. The fact that they offer no protection against STIs and are typically more difficult to obtain than condoms makes them a less recommended, but still a useful method. [12] X Research source Ask your doctor to fit you for a diaphragm. You can purchase sponges at most drug stores. Make sure to follow the directions very carefully.
Be aware that the counselors at Planned Parenthood can talk to you about options that include terminating or continuing with your pregnancy. Talk to your partner. If you are in a serious relationship, say, “What would we do if I became pregnant?” Make use of emergency contraception. Drugs like Plan-B, Next Choice, and ella can decrease the possibility of pregnancy after unprotected sex when no contraceptive is used. Most don’t require a prescription, though some do have age limits that vary depending on the country and state.
Make sure that your relationship is mutually monogamous, which means you are both committed to only having sex with each other. Trust is a big part of monogamy. Make sure that you and your partner are open and honest with each other about your sexual activity — past and present.
You don’t need to have the “numbers” talk, necessarily, but you do need to find out if your partner has regularly engaged in risky sexual behaviors. Get tested together before you decide to have sex. Have consensual sex. Make sure your partner is capable of consenting to sex and that both people in the relationship agree to the sexual activity each and every time. Consenting once doesn’t mean consenting to future sexual encounters, and likewise consenting to one activity in no way suggests the consent of another. Never assume consent.
If you go to parties and want to get drunk or use drugs, it’s safest to be with friends. Look out for one another. Don’t share drinks. Don’t accept a drink from someone you don’t know. Keep your hand over the top of drink and keep it with you at all times — don’t leave it sitting exposed if you go to the bathroom. Being mindful of your safety can help you avoid falling victim to “date rape drugs. " Common date rape drugs are Rohypnol (roofies), GHB, and Ketamine. Common symptoms include dizziness, confusion, and difficulty with motor skills. Get medical care if you suspect you have been drugged.
Common pressuring tactics include threatening a break up or trying to influence you with drugs or alcohol. You can say, “I don’t feel comfortable. Please stop. ” You can also say, “I was really enjoying kissing you. I’d like to keep things on that level. ”
Ask yourself a series of questions. For example, are you prepared to talk to your healthcare provider about your sexual activity? Additionally, you should ask yourself if you feel comfortable discussing intimacy with your partner. Moreover, do you feel comfortable saying that you don’t want to have sex? If you can’t confidently answer “yes” to these questions, it might be a good idea to hold off on having sex. Remember, every relationship moves at its own pace.
