Sex: safe fun

Expressing your sexuality versus staying healthy and STI-free – why can’t you have both? Sexologist gives some basic rules for safe sex.

Read about the recurring condition that this couple could easily avoid if they knew how.

Another user asks: Is it risky to have to spend a weekend with swingers?

This user wants to know if a specific act is harmful.

Some tips from the experts
According to the Sexologist, some basic rules can make sexual expression both pleasurable AND safe.

• Always use a condom when indulging in high-risk sexual practices, such as oral, vaginal or anal sex.
• Don’t allow body fluids (blood, semen, vaginal fluids or menstrual blood) to come into contact with the vagina, penis, mouth or anus – the same for broken skin.
• Avoid sexual contact if you, or your partner, have open sores on the genital area.
• Avoid oral sex if you have cold sores or a sore throat – or if you have brushed your teeth in the last few hours, as there may be traces of blood from your gums.
• Wash sexual toys, do not share them – and, if you must, use a condom.
• Avoid rough vaginal or anal intercourse as it can cause tearing, and hence bleeding.

Read more
Safe sex
Lost interest in sex?

(Joanne Hart, Health24, July 2009)