How to Have Safer Sex

Sex is an important part of life. Whether you’re trying to be an adult for the first time or you’ve been and are looking for a new partner, sex can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking. Safe sex also means you can comfortably enjoy sex with your partner. You will feel confident knowing how to protect your body and health. So, learn how to stay safe from problems like STIs, unwanted pregnancy, and other risky sexual behaviors. Don’t forget that you must take care of your physical and mental health.

Table of Contents

Prevention of sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

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Use latex condoms . Male condoms can be used during any form of sex, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex. This type of condom is easy to use, highly effective and inexpensive. They are also available for free in many family planning programs, schools, and other counseling services. Condoms used regularly and correctly during intercourse can reduce the risk of STIs and unwanted pregnancy with up to 99% confidence.

If you are allergic to latex, you can also use ppyurethane condoms, which also help prevent STIs. Condoms made of natural materials or sheepskin can help you avoid pregnancy, but are not reliable enough to prevent STIs.
Make sure to put the condom on the erect penis. Couples will feel closer when doing this.
Don’t forget, both of you have a responsibility to have safe sex. If you are often close to your partner, always have a condom on hand, and remember to check the expiration date.
Condoms usually do not tear when used correctly; but if the “raincoat” is torn or comes off during love, both must be tested within 10 days.

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Consider using a female condom . Female condoms can be used during vaginal intercourse. This type of condom is effective against most STIs and reduces the risk of pregnancy. Although the failure rate is higher than hormonal birth control methods, female condoms are also very effective when used in combination with other methods of protection. ^{[1] X Research Source}

You should never use a male and female condom at the same time. Friction can tear one or both condoms and render them ineffective.
Be sure to read the instructions on the packaging carefully. Make sure you know how to put on a female condom properly.
The female condom is inserted into the vagina in a similar way to a tampon. The penis will stay inside the female condom during intercourse.
Usually female condoms will not tear when used correctly; but if it breaks, go see your doctor for testing within 10 days.

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Use a diaphragm when having oral sex. The diaphragm is a piece of latex or condom that is opened into a square. When used correctly, a diaphragm can reduce the risk of blood and genital secretions entering the mouth. This is an effective measure to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. You can use a diaphragm for both the vulva and anus. ^{[2] X Research Source}

Make sure the rubber diaphragm is not punctured, torn or damaged. If necessary, wash off the cornstarch, as cornstarch can cause vaginitis. Cover the vagina or anus during oral sex.
Never switch an oral diaphragm back and forth between the vagina and anus until a new diaphragm is in place. Remember to dispose of it after use.

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Try using a lubricant. While rubbing is pleasurable in love, it can also increase the risk of infection. Friction often tears the condom or diaphragm. To reduce friction, you can try using a lubricant during intercourse. ^{[3] X Research Sources}

Be sure to check the ingredients on the product packaging. Do not use oil-based lubricants when wearing latex condoms. Oil can break down condoms.
Instead, you should choose a water-based lubricant. Silicone-based products are also a good choice. You can also apply lubricant to the diaphragm to soften it and reduce the risk of tearing.

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Closer in another way. You and your partner can find other sexual activities that are completely risk-free. Get creative and explore new forms of mutual pleasure. Whispers or imagination can also stimulate a partner. Some other safe sex practices include: ^{[4] X Research Source}

Make love over the phone or text
Masturbating each other
Virtual sex

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Try low-risk sexual activities. Vaginal and anal intercourse are considered “high-risk” sexual activities. The risk of infection during anal sex is even higher because the skin around the anus is thinner. Similarly, sexually transmitted diseases can be transmitted between the mouth and the genitals, and so unprotected oral sex is also risky behavior. You can still be close without intercourse. Talk to your partner about experimenting with new sexual activities. You can try: ^{[5] X Research Sources}

Deep kiss
Stroking and caressing
Explore sex toys like dildos or vibrators.
- Keep sex toys clean. Always wash toys before and after use, and never use them unless you are sure they are clean. Soaking toys in a tub of mild disinfectant is an inexpensive option.
- Wash toys thoroughly and make sure to dry them thoroughly before placing them in an airtight bag, and store them in a clean, dry place. Do not share sex toys with a partner you do not use protection during sex, as this can cause infection.

Consult a doctor

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Get tested periodically. You should periodically visit your doctor or free medical facility for screening tests for HIV and other STIs. You and your partner should get tested before you decide to stop using protection while having sex. It’s still a good idea to keep getting tested periodically even if you’re in a serious relationship just to be on the safe side. It is always better to be careful than to be infected without knowing it. ^{[6] X Research Source}

If you’re worried, ask your partner to go with you. You absolutely have the right to ask your partner to do this willingly and voluntarily.
If the other person doesn’t want to go with you, ask them to go alone and show you the results. Try saying, “I know you need privacy. But this affects the health of both you and me, so we have to share information.”
If your partner refuses to have safe sex, you should find someone else. ^{[7] X Research Sources}

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Know about specific symptoms. One of the best ways to keep yourself safe is to increase your knowledge. Take the time to learn about STIs along with their modes of transmission and symptoms. Doctors are one of the best sources of knowledge. Ask your doctor for some information or check out reputable sites online. ^{[8] X Research Sources}

For example, you should know that chlamydia, one of the most common STIs, often has no symptoms, so people often unknowingly pass it on to others.
Genital warts are another STI. These warts are very contagious by skin-to-skin contact. Skin-colored bumps are often shaped like cauliflower. Your doctor can help you find the most effective treatment regimen.
Many STIs have no obvious symptoms; However, if you notice any abnormalities in your partner’s private area, you should avoid sex until they see a doctor.
Understand your body. If you notice any changes in your body, whether obvious or not, do not hesitate to contact your doctor. It’s always better to be careful than to regret later.

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Go get vaccinated. One of the best ways to prevent some STIs is to get vaccinated. Vaccines are available to prevent hepatitis A and B, and human papillomavirus (HPV). Ask your doctor if these vaccines are right for you. ^{[9] X Research Source}

Women 9 to 26 years old should get the HPV vaccine. This vaccine is given in 3 doses over 6 months. This vaccine has been certified by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as safe for all women over this age. The HPV vaccine is also recommended for boys ages 11-12.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends hepatitis A vaccine for all children, men who have sex with men, and people who inject drugs.
Many groups of people should be vaccinated against hepatitis B, which include:
- Children under 19 years old who have never been vaccinated
- Intravenous drug users
- Men who have sex with men
- People with HIV or chronic liver disease

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Receive treatment. Part of having safe and responsible sex is making sure you don’t pass the infection on to your partner. If you have an STI, you need to make sure you get the right treatment. If you are diagnosed positive, ask your doctor about the most effective treatment option in your case. ^{[10] X Research Source}

For example, if you find out you have gonorrhea, your doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics to help treat the infection.
In the above case and any other inflammatory disease, you must take the medicine exactly as directed. Ask your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about side effects.
Let your partner know. You need to tell your partner, such as, “I need to tell you I just got tested and I have gonorrhea, so you need to get tested as soon as possible. .”

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Ask about high-risk sex. You may find yourself in a situation where you need to know about high-risk sex. For example, maybe your sex partner has been diagnosed with HIV. In this case, consult your doctor before having sex. ^{[11] X Trusted Source Go Ask Alice Go to Source}

Ask your doctor about many problems. You might ask, “My partner is HIV positive. So what do we have to do to stay negative?”
Open communication. Don’t hesitate to ask if you or your partner have any questions.
You can still enjoy a healthy and happy sex life with someone who tests positive, as long as you always make sure it’s safe to have sex.

Avoid unwanted pregnancy

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Oral contraceptives. Hormonal contraceptives work to regulate the ovulation cycle in women to prevent conception. The most commonly used hormonal birth control pills are often referred to as “the oral contraceptive pill”. When taken regularly and correctly, hormonal birth control pills are 99% effective. If you plan to take birth control pills, talk to your obstetrician-gynecologist or general practitioner for a prescription. ^{[12] X Trusted Source US Office on Women’s Health Go to source}

Always take hormonal birth control pills correctly. Hormonal birth control pills are very effective, but only when taken regularly and correctly. You need to take your medicine at the same time each day, and avoid smoking, as smoking can raise blood pressure and other health concerns.
Note your body’s response to the hormone and consult your doctor if you notice any abnormalities. Sometimes you need to experiment to get the right medication.
Set an alarm on your phone to remind you to take your medicine and take it at the same time each day.

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Consider hormone replacement methods. There are several other hormone methods that are also reliable, up to 99% effective.. NuvaRing hormone patches and contraceptive implants can be used for weeks to years and are quite effective.

The Depo-Provera injection is another option given every few months. IUDs are another option worth considering.
You can use both condoms and other birth control methods at the same time to reduce your risk of pregnancy and STIs. Combining condoms and other birth control methods is the best way to stay safe during sex. You will have more pleasure with your partner when you feel more secure.

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Use contraceptive film. The following methods do not work to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases but are effective at preventing pregnancy. The diaphragm, birth control sponge, and cervical cap are placed on the cervix and should be used with spermicide. These contraceptives will usually be placed in the vagina for at least 6 hours after intercourse.

These methods are at most 90% effective so they are a bit less reliable than other methods of birth control. In addition, they are also less recommended because they do not protect against STIs and are often harder to find than condoms. However, this is still a useful method. ^{[13] X Research Source}
Ask your doctor about the size of your diaphragm. You can buy birth control sponges at most drugstores. Remember to follow the instructions carefully.

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Understand your options. If you’re female and sexually active, you’re at increased risk of unwanted pregnancy. Knowing what to do during an unplanned pregnancy is also part of safe sex. Anticipate this problem and know where to look for help. ^{[14] X Research Source}

Note that family planning center counselors can advise you on options, including termination or continuation of the pregnancy.
Talk to your partner. If you’re in a serious relationship, you should ask your partner, “What would we do if I happen to be pregnant?”
Use emergency contraception. Medications such as Plan-B, Next Choice, and Ella can reduce your chances of getting pregnant after having unprotected sex. Most of these drugs can be purchased without a prescription, although some have age restrictions, which vary by country and region.

Choose responsible behaviors

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Live in monogamy. Monogamy here implies a relationship with only one partner. Being faithful can help reduce your risk of contracting STIs. If you’re planning to have sex, consider this. ^{[15] X Research Source}

Make sure that your relationship is monogamous on both sides, meaning that you both have to commit to having sex only with each other.
Trust plays a key role in a monogamous relationship. Make sure you and your partner are open and honest with each other about sexual activity – past and present.

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Always take the time to talk to your partner before “falling in love”. Every time you enter a new physical relationship, it’s important to take the time to talk before you make love. Be honest about your sexual experiences and desires for safe sex. If your partner doesn’t want to have safe sex or isn’t upfront about your sexual experience, don’t go to bed with that person. ^{[16] X Trusted Source National Health Service (UK) Go to Source}

You don’t have to talk much, but you really do need to know if your partner is engaging in risky sexual behaviors. Both of you also need to get tested before deciding to have sex.
Consensus sex. Make sure your partner gives consent and that you both give consent during each and every sex.
Agreeing to have sex once does not mean agreeing to have sex in the future. Similarly, being content with one activity does not mean being content with another. You should never assume that the other person consents.

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Put your own safety first. Avoid drinking alcohol and using drugs during sex. Making love under the influence of alcohol and drugs is not a good idea. It is difficult for you to perform effective safe sex when drunk or high, and you may misinterpret your partner’s signals or they may misinterpret your signals, which can lead to non-consensual sex. ^{[17] X Trusted Source US Office on Women’s Health Go to source}

If you go to parties that involve drinking or taking drugs, it’s best to stay with your friends to keep an eye on each other.
Do not drink alcohol together. Don’t drink a glass of wine offered by a stranger. Always cover the mouth of your wine glass with your hand and always carry it with you – don’t leave it on the table when you go to the bathroom. Being vigilant can help you avoid becoming a victim of “date rape drugs.”
The drugs that bad guys use to sexually abuse are rohypnp (roofies), GHB, and ketamine. Common symptoms include dizziness, confusion, and difficulty performing motor functions.
Seek medical attention if you suspect you have been drugged.

Advice

Do not use petroleum-based or mineral oil-based products, as these products weaken the condom. There are many very good water-based lubricants on the market.
Carry a condom with you in case you need it, but try to avoid keeping it close to you (in your wallet, for example), as heat will accelerate the breakdown of latex.
Sex includes options other than vaginal and anal intercourse. Masturbation and oral sex are also sexual activities without the use of contraception. However, you need to remember that diseases like HIV can still be transmitted through very small wounds in the mouth. It’s always a good idea to use condoms just to be on the safe side, especially if your partner hasn’t recently been tested for HIV.
You should put on a condom as soon as possible. Although genital mucus is thought to be infertile, it’s important to prevent STIs.
In the UK, condoms are distributed free of charge in family planning facilities, and contraceptives are free at the National Health Service.
If the guy says he’s allergic to latex but you know he’s not, don’t “do it” with him.
Don’t rush. Both of you must take the time to talk about what you want.
Make sure you and your partner are comfortable having sex. So ask before you act.

Warning

No sexual activity is without risk. No birth control method is 100% effective. Abstinence from sex is the surest way to avoid STIs.
Sexually transmitted diseases do not discriminate on the basis of marital status, age, sexual orientation, class or color of skin.
Never indulge yourself or your partner with fruits such as bananas or other non-hard objects shaped like a penis. This can lead to a situation where medical intervention is required.

Steps