Safe Sex 101: Everything You Need to Know for a Pleasurable and Responsible Experience

The basics of safe sex apply to all individuals, regardless of gender or sexual orientation. While using protection is the first thing people think of when discussing this important issue, safe sex also includes obtaining clearly communicated consent before, during, and after sex and ensuring that no pressure, fear or violence is involved. Regardless of the genders involved, all types of sexual activity involve some degree of risk. However, the risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) can be reduced by taking certain precautions and practicing safe behaviors.

The only surefire way to avoid contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is by abstaining from sexual activity. No one is immune to STIs, and all sexual activity carries a risk of infection. If you're unsure about your STI status, the best way to find out is by getting tested.
If you or your partner is living with HIV and you intend to engage in sexual activity, you might want to consider taking PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis).

1. To minimize the risk of contracting various diseases through sexual activities, it is crucial to ensure that your vaccinations are up to date. In particular, the following vaccines are recommended:
   1. Hepatitis A vaccine
   2. Hepatitis B vaccine
   3. HPV vaccine*
   *Until recently, the HPV vaccine was primarily advised for biological females. However, according to updated guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is now recommended for all individuals—men and women—between the ages of 11 and 26.
2. Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP)
   Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is orally-administered antiviral medication that provides protection against the HIV virus for uninfected individuals. To be effective, it must be taken before engaging in any activity that carries a risk of infection.
3. Birth control
   This form of protection against an unplanned pregnancy is typically used by females. Some types of birth control consist of preventing ovulation through the use of multi-hormone or single-hormone supplements. Other birth control drugs work by thickening the mucus of the cervix to block the male sperm from reaching the female egg, while others make the endometrium unsuitable for fertilization.
   
   If you are not taking birth control measures but recently had unprotected sex which could make you pregnant, you can prevent a pregnancy before it starts by taking an emergency contraceptive immediately after unprotected sex , within 12-24 hours or 3-5 days (depending on the method).

Wearing a condom

Most people are familiar with this method of protection. A condom worn by the male on his penis during M-F intercourse is a simple, convenient and effective way of not only preventing a pregnancy but also protecting against STIs. It also provides protection against STIs for M-M intercourse. However, there is now also a type of condom that can be worn by females inside the vagina.

Finger condom

Finger condoms are used in various situations, such as for healthcare, first aid, and sexual activities. They can help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted diseases or be used for personal hygiene purposes. When using a finger condom for sexual activities, it should be disposed of immediately after use to prevent the spread of infections.

• How does a finger condom help with injuries?
  If plasters or bandages are applied to wounds on hands used to perform various tasks, such as typing and washing dishes, they can easily come loose and fall off, increasing the risk of that wound becoming infected. Finger condoms help solve this problem by covering the wound while engaging in activities that may cause other coverings to come off. For example, a finger condom can be applied before washing dishes or taking a bath.
• How can a finger condom help with sexual health?
  The use of fingers during sexual activities can potentially lead to infections due to the transfer of bacteria from the genitals to other parts of the body. In cases where a finger condom is used to reduce this risk, it is recommended that it be removed after engaging in the sexual activities, and that a new one be put on before touching other body parts to ensure a safe sexual experience.
• Is there a risk in using finger condoms?
  • There is no risk in using finger condoms in accordance with their instructions, unless the user has a latex allergy, as finger condoms are predominantly made of latex.
  • There is a risk of finger condoms slipping off and remaining inside the body. Hence, it is important to ensure that the finger condom is properly secure when initially placed on the finger.
  • If a finger condom does get stuck inside the body, try using a clean finger to remove it. If it cannot be removed manually, seek medical assistance immediately.
  • The risk of finger condoms slipping off during sexual activity is significantly less dangerous than the risk of contracting infections or sexually transmitted diseases resulting from not using finger condoms.

Rimming, also known as anilingus, refers to the act of using the tongue on the anus for sexual pleasure. Engaging in this activity may pose risks of transmitting certain diseases, such as:

1. Hepatitis A.
2. Hepatitis B: An infectious disease that can be contracted through contact with infected blood or other bodily fluids
3. E coli bacteria is a potential presence in fecal matter. Should the anus not be cleaned properly prior to anilingus, it could result in diarrhea or a colonic infection.
4. Trichomoniasis infection: This is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the trichomonas vaginalis bacteria.
5. HPV infection.
6. Mouth ulcers.
7. AIDs (HIV) infection.

DOs & DON’Ts for dental dams, used to help prevent sexually transmitted diseases