26 Aug How to be sexually safe in 2024.
Don’t lie, you clicked on this article as soon as you read the headline. Right?
Truth is, there really is no such thing as safe sex because all forms of sexual contact carry some form of risk. Let’s take kissing, for example. It might seem somewhat safe at surface level; however, herpes and other diseases could be contacted through it. That said, there are guidelines for safer sex and these following tips are some of the best you’d ever come across:
- Limiting your sexual activity to only one partner who is also having sex with you reduces your risk of exposure to sexually transmitted disease-causing organisms. Furthermore, before starting up a sexual relationship with a new partner, know their health history. Ask questions – ask about their history of STIs, and drug use. While this conversation might be uncomfortable, it is essential for a healthy sexual life. And don’t just ask, Doctor recommends that you get these tests done in a reputable clinical diagnostic centre to verify these tests.
- Use condoms every time you have “unplanned” sex. Condoms remain one of the most effective ways of preventing both STIs and unwanted pregnancy IF used correctly. Yes, the keyword is “IF”. For oral sex, dental dams and flavoured condoms offer protection against STIs. For more protection, consider using additional contraceptives methods such as birth control pills, IUDs or implants for added protection against pregnancy. But be sure to speak with your doctor to know what works for you.
- Get tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections even if you don’t have symptoms. For women, ensure you have your regular Pap test and other screenings on a routine basis as recommended by your doctor.
- Seek Support: If you have concerns about sexual health or encounter or risky situations, do not hesitate to seek support from healthcare professionals, counsellors, or support care groups. These care groups also help to keep you updated on sexual health information, including new STIs, treatment options, and prevention methods while providing education about the risks associated with different sexual activities, including oral, anal, and vaginal sex.
- Don’t neglect the importance of sexual hygiene. Clean your sexual toys after each use with warm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap. Consider using a toy cleaner specifically designed for silicone or other materials. This helps prevent the spread of bacteria and keeps your toys safe for future use. And DO NOT share sex toys with others.
Some people may ask “Are some kinds of sex safer than others?”
There are some ways to get sexual pleasure and be intimate with another person or with yourself which are largely considered risk free such as masturbating, dry humping with clothes on, and touching your partner’s genitals with your hands (so long as you don’t get any of their sexual fluids on or in your mouth or genitals)
In the end, staying sexually safe requires a lot of intentionality, meaning you have to be intentional and proactive. It is very possible to enjoy fulfilling sexual relationships while being completely safe. Remember that sexual safety is a shared responsibility that begins with you and ends with your partner.
Links to Source
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/safer-sex-guidelines
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/safer-sex
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/healthyliving/safe-sex
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