Safe Sex

In this first decade of the 21st century the various risks connected with having sex have (alas) increased. This is almost entirely because so many people – whether they're heterosexuals or homosexuals or 'bi' – don't practice safe sex.

You could say that the only totally safe form of sex is masturbation.

Technically, all sexual activity with a partner carries some risk, though the danger of infections is practically non-existent if the two people are completely faithful to each other.

‘Petting’ with the hands is a relatively safe form of sex and is certainly much less risky than intercourse. So if you’re a teenager and you can keep to hand-petting (rather than ‘going all the way’) – you'll definitely be safer.


What about ‘petting’ with the mouth?

This is a bit more risky, since it can pass on infections like gonorrhea and herpes (and rarely syphilis). But at least it can’t get you pregnant!

It's now known that oral sex can pass on HIV, though a UK Government committee has assessed the risk as relatively low – and therefore not as great as that associated with vaginal or rectal intercourse.

Condoms:

If you're going to have sexual intercourse with someone who is not a regular, faithful partner, you should always use a condom.

This can be either a male condom or (much less commonly) a female one. Unfortunately, in 2011 sales of female condoms remain low.

The condom should be worn throughout the entire act of intercourse – putting it on when you're halfway through is simply asking for trouble.

Other 'barrier methods' of contraception, such as the diaphragm or cap, do offer some but very little protection against the transmission of infection.

Another form of barrier is a ‘dental dam,’ which quite a few people now use when giving or receiving cunnilingus – that is, oral sex given to a woman by her partner (male or female). It certainly provides at least some protection against germs.


Four final sex tips to remember

    Avoid casual sex.
    If you don't want to have a baby, use contraception.
    If you do have sex with someone who is not your regular, faithful partner – use a condom throughout.
    Remember that alcohol can make us forget all we know about practicing safer sex.