Safer sex means protecting the health of you and your partner. This means preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancy.
When you protect yourself and your partner during sex in a straight relationship (girl and guy), it is from two things - sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancy. In same-sex relationships (guy and guy, girl and girl), safer sex means protecting you and your partner from STIs.
How do I protect myself?
Have non-penetrative sex like kissing, stroking and rubbing. BUT some STIs , like genital warts and genital herpes, can be passed on through skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. For vaginal sex - use condoms with water-based lubricant. For oral sex - use condoms or dental dams. For anal sex - use condoms with water-based lubricant.
Remember, safer sex really starts right at the beginning – talking to your partner that you are sure you want to have sex. You don’t have to have sex if you don’t want to – you always have the right to say NO.
It’s also a good idea to talk about using condoms, water-based lubricant and dental dams BEFORE you have sex. You also have a right to say NO if you partner doesn’t agree to use condoms and dental dams.
What is sex? Sex and gender
Different kinds of sex Orgasm – the big 'o'
Being ready for sex Talk first!
