What Is Safe Sex? How Can Safer Sex Make Sex Feel Better?

Safer sex can give you both protection and pleasure, which is great news. Here are some safe sex suggestions to assist you in your endeavor.

What is safe sex?

As long as neither of you has a sexually transmitted infection (STI), having sexual intercourse with only one partner is considered safe. There is no safe sex according to many healthcare professionals. All types of sexual interaction, they say, contain some degree of risk, and the only way to be fully safe is not to engage in sexual activity at all.

Kissing, for example, is regarded to be a harmless pastime, although herpes and other infections can be transmitted through this method.

Condoms are widely believed to prevent sexually transmitted infections. Condemned to the fact that condom use is beneficial in protecting against herpes, gonorrhea, or chlamydia, they may not be as effective in protecting from more serious illnesses like genital warts or HIV.

How can safer sex make sex feel better?

A simple and effective method to make safe sex feel good is to make it sexy. While you’re removing the condom or dam, you and your partner can still kiss and hold hands. Have your partner put on the condom or dam to keep the party going. There are many ways for your spouse to insert an internal condom in your genitals. The more positive you are about using protection, the more enjoyable it will be to do so.

Condoms come in a wide variety of styles and materials, making it easy for anyone to select one that’s comfortable and fits well. A variety of textures, colors, thin materials, and specialized lubricants can all enhance the pleasure of sex, which is why certain condoms are specifically created for this purpose. Vaginal sexual pleasure can be enhanced by using internal condoms, which have an inner ring and an outer ring that rubs on the vaginal wall. Many people enjoy these varied sensations. Condoms can also extend the duration of sex.

Additionally, you may assist keep you and your partner safe by using extra lubricant throughout your sexual encounters, whether it’s within the condom or on each other’s private parts. Condoms and lubricants flavored for oral sex can enhance the pleasure of using protection. Getting oral sex through a dental dam is very popular with many people.

Stress, on the other hand, is the single biggest deterrent to having a good time with your partner. You may enjoy yourself and your partner more without having to worry about contracting an STD because of safer sex. Knowing that you and your spouse are protected from STDs/pregnancy can give you a sense of pride and accountability. And talking to your spouse about STDs, protection, and being tested jointly is a terrific way to build your connection, improve communication, and increase intimacy and trust in the relationship.

How can I make safer sex more convenient?

Even if you use condoms, you’re still at risk of contracting an STD until you use them. Having protection on hand makes it simpler to follow through on your safer sex goals. As a result, condoms are compact, quite convenient to carry, and may be tucked away in your handbag or backpack. Having a supply of condoms and lubricant on hand is also a smart idea.

Adding condoms to foreplay is another way to make sex safer and more convenient. You can put the condom on your partner and rub lube on their penis while you keep touching and kissing each other. As a result, the condom becomes an integral part of the activity rather than a barrier. If you use internal condoms, you can put it in ahead of time before you get busy, so having safer sex is more spontaneous

They can be purchased from pharmacies, Planned Parenthood health centers, community health centers, doctor’s offices, supermarkets and even from vending machines. Condoms are sometimes given away for free. Buying condoms and dams does not require a prescription, and there are no age limitations.

Internal condoms require a prescription from your nurse or doctor, but you can also get them over the internet. Although it may be more difficult to obtain inside condoms and dams than external ones, you can order them online and purchase them in some locations.

Guidelines for safer sex

Having intercourse solely with one person can lower your risk of contracting disease-causing germs. Take heed of the following advice, which may lead to a safer sex experience:

• If you’re just starting off with a new person, think twice before engaging in sex. The first step is to talk about previous relationships, STIs, and drug usage.
• Every time you have sex, use condoms. Instead of natural rubber or polyurethane, go for a synthetic latex or polyurethane condom for men. If you are allergic to latex, you should avoid polyurethane. Polyurethane is used to make female condoms.
• In laboratory tests, nonoxynol-9 spermicide killed HIV, however it has not been established if spermicides, used alone or in combination with condoms, protect against HIV infection. In order to reduce the risk of HIV transmission, the CDC recommends using latex condoms with or without spermicides, which have been shown in studies to increase the chance of nonoynol-9 use.
• Having your spouse use a condom while having oral sex can help keep your mouth safe (male or female).
• Avoid drinking alcohol or taking drugs because doing so increases the likelihood that you will engage in high-risk sex.
• Doing the dunk after a sexual encounter does not provide any protection against the spread of STIs. Aside from that, it can wash away any spermicidal protection and transfer an infection further along the reproductive canal as a result.
• Regular Pap smears, pelvic exams, and STI screenings are all necessary precautions.
• Consider your partner’s physical state. Look for symptoms such as a pain, blister, rash, or spotting any discharge.
• Check for sores, blisters, rashes, or discharge on a regular basis.
• Consider alternatives to traditional forms of intercourse such as anal, oral, and vaginal. These are methods in which no bodily fluids are exchanged or mucous membranes are contacted.

A Woman’s Guide to Safe Sex Basics

Practice safe sex

Taking charge of your sexual well-being and security should not be a source of anxiety for women. Preparation, readiness, and safety are all healthy and prudent behaviors. STIs, such as HIV, gonorrhea, and syphilis, can be prevented or disseminated if you and your partner practice good sex hygiene. Birth control can also help you avoid unwanted pregnancies.

Research your birth control options

There are more and more options for contraception. If you’re sexually active, you have a variety of alternatives for preventing pregnancy, including daily medications, monthly injections, vaginal rings, and intrauterine devices. If you are or plan to become sexually active, talk to your doctor about birth control alternatives. Your doctor can help you determine whether or not your birth control method is still the best fit for your lifestyle changes. Work with your doctor to discover an alternative birth control method if your current method is experiencing unpleasant side effects (such as dizziness or diminished sex desire).

Know your status

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) should be screened for on a regular basis if you’re sexually active or have been in the past. Symptoms and indicators of some sexually transmitted diseases may not appear for weeks, months, or even years after you’ve contracted them. You may have unintentionally spread the STI to someone else by the time you realize you have it. Additionally, your spouse may unintentionally transmit a STI to you. As a result, you need to be tested frequently. The only way to know for sure if you and your testing partner are free of drugs is to go through this process. The test can be performed by your primary care physician. You can also check with your county’s health department or a local family planning clinic for further information about your options.

Use protection every time

Use barrier protection correctly every time you have a sexual encounter to avoid pregnancy and reduce your risk of contracting a STI. The most prevalent method of protection is the male condom. You can use a female condom if your spouse doesn’t want to use a male condom. It’s not a good idea to use both a male and female condom at the same time. (1) Polyurethane condoms are an option if you or your partner are allergic to regular latex condoms. Even though they can prevent pregnancies, natural condoms manufactured from lambskin do not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. Buying condoms is as simple as going to your local drugstore or a big box retailer. You may be able to get free condoms from your doctor’s office or local health agency. There are three ways to look at it:

Communication is key

When discussing your sexual history, desires, and decision to practice safe sex, be open and honest. As a result, you and your partner will be able to openly discuss issues. Your sexual history should be shared with each other so that you can be aware of any potential STIs or diseases. Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cannot be cured, so you’ll want to use protection to avoid contracting them from a partner. Discussing your background can also lead to discussions regarding testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Abstain from sex

Vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse can all lead to the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The only way to guarantee that you won’t get pregnant or get infected with a STI is to not have sex at all or abstain. Abstain from sexual activity until you are emotionally and physically prepared. To ensure that you are held accountable, discuss your decision with any coworkers or friends you may have. When you tell your partner that you’ve decided to wait to have sex until you’re in a committed, monogamous relationship, you open up a dialogue about your sexual health.

Limit your number of partners

The more persons you have sexual contact with, the greater your risk of contracting a STI or becoming pregnant. Avoid having too many sex partners at once. There is a history of previous sexual partners, encounters and possible infections with each new one. If you’re not in a committed relationship, you should exercise caution when it comes to having sex.

Or better yet, be monogamous

In addition to abstinence, being in a long-term, one-partner relationship is the best approach to avoid catching a STI. As long as you and your partner are faithful to one other, you may one day decide to have intercourse without the safety of a barrier. You may want to continue utilizing barrier protection even if you’re monogamous in order to avoid the spread of a STI. However, this contract only works if you and your partner remain faithful to each other in your relationship. You may become infected with STIs if your partner has sexual interactions outside of your partnership. (2)

Use protection for all types of sexual encounters

Vaginal and anal sex are the only ways to get pregnant, but you can also catch an STD from oral sex. Any sexual contact must therefore include some form of security. During oral intercourse, using male condoms or dental dams can help prevent the transmission of a STI like HIV. Sexually transmitted disease (STI) prevention is also possible with male condoms. Do not use both male and female condoms at the same time for vaginal sex.

Be careful of the products you use

Don’t rush into using a douche or a vaginal wash without thinking things through first. Bacteria that could help prevent an infection can be removed by these products. These washes can raise your chance of contracting a STI if you use them frequently.

When you’re having sex, don’t forget the lube. If you or your partner don’t have enough lubricant in the condom, it can break or rip. The use of lubricants can also help to reduce sex-related skin tears. Skin-to-skin contact can facilitate the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Do not use oil-based lubricants; instead, use water- or silicone-based lubricants. Using an oil-based lubricant increases the likelihood of a condom ripping. To ensure that you’re using the condom correctly, read all of the instructions on the packaging.

Clean sex toys, too

The use of sex toys might be a method to spice up the romance in your relationship. Even if you’re not pregnant, these gadgets can still transmit STIs and other diseases. Sex toys should be cleaned and sterilized before each usage. In addition to regular sex toys, latex condoms can be used on these as well. Reduce the risk of an infection by cleaning them regularly. To get the most out of your device, follow the care instructions that came with it. Cleaning procedures for various types of materials must be tailored to their specific properties. (2)

Safe sex is healthy sex

With a new partner or a long-term one, bringing up sex isn’t always the easiest thing to do. It’s hard, but it’s necessary. A healthy relationship is dependent on the well-being of both partners. Before your first sexual experience, it’s a good idea to have a conversation about your sexual habits, preferences, history, and protection options.. Taking a proactive approach to this conversation can help avoid regrettable mistakes made in the heat of the moment.

What to do if you have unsafe sex

If you’ve ever engaged in unethical sexual behavior, you should come clean about it.

• Do not use water or other fluids to “douching” (washing out or irrigating the vaginal or rectal area) since this may cause irritation to fragile tissues and increase the risk of infection
• check to see if you’re pregnant or not. Take the emergency contraceptive pill into consideration (within 72 hours is best, but it can be taken with 120 hours of unprotected sex or a broken condom if no other form of contraception was used)
• to be tested for STIs, you should make an appointment with your primary care physician as soon as possible.
• As a male who has engaged in unprotected anal intercourse with another man, you should consider taking post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). To determine if you need post-exposure prophylaxis, call the PEP hotline.

Where to get help

• Your primary care physician (doctor)
• Your school’s nurse or school health coordinator
• On-site adolescent health care is available at some secondary schools.
• Your neighborhood health care facility
• Victoria’s Sexual Health (SHV). SHV Melbourne CBD Clinic (03) 9660 4700, SHV Box Hill Clinic (03) 9257 0100, or (free call): 1800 013 952 can be reached to schedule an appointment. They are geared toward the needs of children and teens.
• Tel: (03) 9341 6200 or 1800 032 017 or TTY (03) 9347 8619 (for the hearing impaired) Melbourne Sexual Health Centre
• A phone number for Thorne Harbour Health (previously the Victorian AIDS Council) may be found at (03) 9865 6700 or 1800 134 880.
• The Center Clinic, St Kilda, can be reached at (03) 9525 5866.
• Phone: (03) 9416 2889 Equinox Gender Diverse Health Center
• Immediately! Please call (03) 9416 2889.
• Clinic for Sexual Health in the Ballarat Community of Health (03) 5338 4500
• Tel. (03) 5434 4300 or (03) 5448 1600, Bendigo Community Health Sexual Health Clinic
• Clinic 35, Wodonga (02) 6022 8888 or 1800657 573, Gateway Health
• Tel: (03) 5022 5444, Sunraysia Community Health Services
• Phone number: (03) 5226 7489, Barwon Health Sexual Health Clinic,
• Pharmacies in the state of Victoria are called Supercare Pharmacies.
• To learn more about sexually transmitted diseases, contraception, and pregnancy prevention methods, call the statewide 1800MyOptions hotline at (800) 696-7844.

Know where you stand

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) should be screened for on a regular basis if you’re sexually active or have been in the past. Symptoms and indicators of some sexually transmitted diseases may not appear for weeks, months, or even years after you’ve contacted them. You may have unintentionally spread the STI to someone else by the time you realize you have it. Additionally, your spouse may unintentionally transmit an STI to you. As a result, you need to be tested frequently. The only way to know for sure if you and your testing partner are free of drugs is to go through this process. The test can be performed by your primary care physician. You can also check with your county’s health department or a local family planning clinic for further information about your options.

Use barrier protection correctly every time you have a sexual encounter to avoid pregnancy and reduce your risk of contracting an STI. The most prevalent method of protection is the male condom. You can use a female condom if your spouse doesn’t want to use a male condom. It’s not a good idea to use both a male and female condom at the same time. Polyurethane condoms are available if you or your spouse is allergic to regular latex condoms. Even though they can prevent pregnancies, natural condoms manufactured from lambskin do not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. Buying condoms is as simple as going to your local drugstore or a big-box retailer. You may be able to get free condoms from your doctor’s office or local health agency. There are three ways to look at it:

When discussing your sexual history, desires, and decision to practice safe sex, be open and honest. As a result, you and your partner will be able to openly discuss issues. Your sexual history should be shared with each other so that you can be aware of any potential STIs or diseases. Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cannot be cured, so you’ll want to use protection to avoid contracting them from a partner. Discussing your background can also lead to discussions regarding testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse can all lead to the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The only way to guarantee that you won’t get pregnant or get infected with a STI is to not have sex at all or abstain. Abstain from sexual activity until you are emotionally and physically prepared. To ensure that you are held accountable, discuss your decision with any coworkers or friends you may have. When you tell your partner that you’ve decided to wait to have sex until you’re in a committed, monogamous relationship, you open up a dialogue about your sexual health.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) should be screened for on a regular basis if you’re sexually active or have been in the past. Symptoms and indicators of some sexually transmitted diseases may not appear for weeks, months, or even years after you’ve contacted them. You may have unintentionally spread the STI to someone else by the time you realize you have it. Additionally, your spouse may unintentionally transmit an STI to you. As a result, you need to be tested frequently. The only way to know for sure if you and your testing partner are free of drugs is to go through this process. The test can be performed by your primary care physician. You can also check with your county’s health department or a local family planning clinic for further information about your options. (1)

Use barrier protection correctly every time you have a sexual encounter to avoid pregnancy and reduce your risk of contracting an STI. The most prevalent method of protection is the male condom. You can use a female condom if your spouse doesn’t want to use a male condom. It’s not a good idea to use both a male and female condom at the same time. Polyurethane condoms are available if you or your spouse is allergic to regular latex condoms. Even though they can prevent pregnancies, natural condoms manufactured from lambskin do not protect against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections. Buying condoms is as simple as going to your local drugstore or a big box retailer. You may be able to get free condoms from your doctor’s office or local health agency. There are three ways to look at it:

When discussing your sexual history, desires, and decision to practice safe sex, be open and honest. As a result, you and your partner will be able to openly discuss issues. Your sexual history should be shared with each other so that you can be aware of any potential STIs or diseases. Some sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cannot be cured, so you’ll want to use protection to avoid contracting them from a partner. Discussing your background can also lead to discussions regarding testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Vaginal, anal, and oral intercourse can all lead to the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The only way to guarantee that you won’t get pregnant or get infected with a STI is to not have sex at all or abstain. Abstain from sexual activity until you are emotionally and physically prepared. To ensure that you are held accountable, discuss your decision with any coworkers or friends you may have. When you tell your partner that you’ve decided to wait to have sex until you’re in a committed, monogamous relationship, you open up a dialogue about your sexual health.