(Image: dominique ashanti photographer)

You don’t need to sacrifice a fulfilling sex life in order to have sex safe. There are safe sex basics that women of every dating lifestyle can practice in order to protect themselves and their partners.

In this guide, you’ll find answers to some of the frequently asked questions women have about the transmission of sexually transmitted diseases and how to take precautions when having sex. 

How Can I Protect Myself From STIs?

 STIs and STDs are more common than you might think. The CDC estimates that 1 in every 5 people in the US have an STI. This isn’t meant to scare you, and if anything, this information normalise sexually transmitted infections as a simple risk you take when having sex. While you don’t want to get one, there’s always a chance that you could, so it’s best to be prepared.

I. Educate Yourself

The best way to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections and diseases is by learning more about them. By understanding them, you can better protect yourself and be prepared should you think you may have contracted one. Learn the basics of STIs and STDs to replace any fears or worries you may have with knowledge.

II. Get Vaccinated

Protect yourself from HPV, Hepatitis A, and Hepatitis B by getting vaccinated. These diseases can be very serious but are preventable with a simple vaccine from your local sexual health clinic.

III. Use Protection

With the exception of abstinence, protecting yourself with condoms is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections. It’s important to note that both male and female condoms can break. Even if the condom stays intact, there is the risk of bodily fluids getting mixed, so it’s essential to wash up after sex and to be careful if either partner has any exposed wounds near their genitals.

IV. Communicate With Your Partner

It’s important to communicate your concerns with your partner. Anytime you’re about to engage in a sexual act with a partner that you are not exclusive with, you should both disclose your sexual history, including your most recent tests. Honesty is critical, and it’s essential when setting boundaries for yourself. Don’t move forward with any sexual situations that make you uncomfortable.

V. Get Tested

If you’re having sexual encounters with multiple partners, get tested between partners. If you do catch an STI, this will help to prevent any further spreading of the infection to multiple partners. It also means you’ll receive the appropriate treatment and avoid any risk of the infection developing into a more severe disease that can lead to complications. (Here are 9 recommended sexual health clinics in Singapore to get STI testings that are safe, discreet and LGBT+ friendly)

How Can I Practice Safe Sex With Multiple Partners?

You can still engage in safe sex while having multiple sexual partners. It just requires communication and cooperation between everyone involved.

I. Set Boundaries You’re Comfortable With

If you’re polyamorous, casually dating, in an open relationship, or active in group sex, you’ve likely already established some boundaries among your sexual partners. It’s important to also share your safe-sex boundaries with your partners and make sure they are reciprocated before engaging in further sexual acts. Be clear with your expectations in regards to STD testing and protection to make sure that your boundaries are respected. Make sure that any fluid bonding is communicated and agreed upon beforehand to make sure you and your partners are protected.

II. Schedule Routine Testing

If you have multiple partners, it’s best to schedule routine testing, and your partners should as well. Keep note of the sexual partners you’ve had between testing to help you trace back who may have infected you and to ensure that everyone involved is made aware. 

If I Have an STD, How Can I Have Safer Sex?

(Image: Marieke Verdenius)

If you or your partner(s) currently have an STI, you’re part of the 20% of the population that does. This doesn’t mean you can’t continue to have sex, but there are some precautions you should take moving forward:

I. Get Tested and Treated

If you know or think you may have an STI, make sure that you get tested and treated before engaging in any further sexual acts. Your sexual health professional will be able to provide you with helpful information on how best to practice safe sex and lower the chances of transmitting your STI.

II. Honesty Is Key

Communicate your situation with your partner(s). It is nothing to be ashamed of, and it’s much better to be honest with them rather than potentially passing the infection onto them. Be prepared with research and documentation regarding your specific STI or STD so you can both have an understanding of the potential risk and the appropriate measures to take to avoid transmission. It’s always best to get clear consent from your partner(s) before engaging in any sexual activities where they can be exposed to STIs.

III. Use The Appropriate Protection

Even if you’re currently on medication or asymptomatic, it’s important that you continue to use protection to prevent transmission. Male condoms offer good protection for penetrative sex, but it can be safer to use female condoms that provide a greater barrier that covers a larger area.

IV. Explore Other Sexual Behaviours

If you or your partner(s) have an active infection, there are other sexual behaviours you can explore together. There is still a ton of pleasure to be had through mutual masturbation and the use of sex toys. With so many different sex toys available today, they can be an exciting way to spice up the bedroom and explore new ways to pleasure each other. To avoid any risk of infection, wash your toys after every use.

V. Shop Sex Toys For Safe Pleasure

(Image: Lovette Vibrator & Lola Rotating Rabbit)

Sex toys are a great way to experience exhilarating amounts of pleasure while practicing safe sex. Browse our shop today and explore the variety of unique toys available.

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