Just The Facts about Sexually Transmitted Infections

What is safer sex?


Safer sex means caring for your health and the health of your partner(s).

Safer sex reduces the chance of you getting or passing on an STI, and/or having an unplanned pregnancy. Here are the key steps to safer sex.
Condoms.

Always use condoms (external or internal/female condoms) or dental dams if you have vaginal, oral or anal sex. Condoms are the only method of contraception that protects against both STIs and pregnancy. Even if you’re using other methods of contraception (like the pill), always use condoms as well.

Talk to your partner.

Talk to your partner about your sexual health. When did you last get tested for STIs? Are you going to use condoms or dental dams? Who will bring them? Are they in date? Make sure you're both 100% comfortable with the arrangement. If you're choosing to have unprotected (condomless) sex, make sure you both understand about STIs and the risks.

If you spot something.

Never have sex (even with a condom) if your partner has a visible sore, ulcer or lump on their genitals or anal area. Don't shame them, but suggest they see their doctor or sexual health clinic.

Use protection for ALL types of sex.

Some STIs can be spread through oral sex. If someone is doing oral sex on a penis, they need to use a condom to avoid STIs. If someone is doing oral sex on a vulva or anus, they need use a dental dam. This is especially important if you’ve got a cut or sore around your mouth or lips or bleeding gums.


Some STIs can also be passed on by using sex toys. Use condoms on sex toys and change the condom for each person. Wash toys carefully after use, and wash your hands after removing the condom.

Did you know?

You should wash your hands with soap and water before and after sexual play.


Don't brush your teeth within 30 minutes or so of having oral sex. It can irritate your gums and create small cuts that increase your chances of getting an infection. If you want to freshen your breath, use mouthwash or sugar-free gum instead.

Consent, consent, consent.

Agreements about using condoms or dental dams ensures that we're giving or getting informed consent - i.e. the conditions under which someone consents to do something sexual.


If someone consents to having sex with a condom, and then the other person secretly removes the condom during sex, this is not consensual - it would be a form of sexual violence. See our support services page to find places that help survivors of all kinds of sexual violence.

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