Safer Sex

Guidelines for Safer Sex

Safer sex can be easy as long as you follow a few simple rules. These aren’t about making sex more complicated or boring but about making sure that you can have the sex you want in the safest way possible. If you have any other ideas about how to keep sex safer then please let us know.

Use Condoms, Use Condoms, Use Condoms – Using condoms for vaginal or anal sex will help reduce the risk of HIV transmission. If you want advice about how to use condoms safely or would like to access free condoms see the condom ordering page.
Use water based lube – water based lube is condom compatible and will help reduce any internal trauma caused by insertive sex. Water based lube is an absolute MUST if you are having anal sex. Water based lube is also available from Positively Sexy.
Oral sex – follow some simple rules – don’t have oral sex if your mouth or genital area is damaged or bleeding. If you want to use flavoured condoms or oral shields (free from our condom ordering page) Read our HIV Transmission page for more information.
Mutual masturbation – loads of fun and no penetration
Sex toys – You can have fun using these internally and externally on each other. Remember not to share toys and to keep them clean. If you are going to share toys pop a new condom on them between partners.
Have regular STI check ups – If you are having many different sexual partners (more than 3 in 6 months) get a check up and get screened for STI’s.
Clean fingers – If you are inserting your fingers any where make sure that they are clean and that nails are short and not sharp. Don’t insert fingers anywhere if they have cuts or open sores on them. You can make a finger condom by using a standard condom over your finger or cutting up a latex glove (don’t try it with a Marigold though). If you are fisting use gloves, and lots of lube, and remember latex gloves are not compatible with oil based lubricants.
Touch – Remember good sex doesn’t just have to be about penetration. Massage and touch are a great way to gain intimacy and sexual fulfilment.