Essential Information on Safe Sex Methods
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In a recent interview, Dr. Nwankwo, a renowned healthcare professional, shared insights on safe sex practices to help individuals make informed decisions about their sexual health and well-being.
Safe sex refers to practices used during sexual activity to prevent the exchange of body fluids like semen, vaginal fluids, or blood, as well as to provide psychological safety. According to Dr. Nwankwo, the current recommended safe sex practices emphasize consistent and correct use of barrier methods such as male and female condoms and dental dams for all sexual activities (oral, vaginal, and anal) to prevent STIs and unintended pregnancies.
Use condoms and barrier methods every time for all sexual contact, including oral, vaginal, and anal sex. Male and female condoms are available; latex condoms are preferred for STI prevention. Non-latex options (polyurethane) are for those allergic to latex. Dental dams or rubber sheets help during oral sex.
Use a new condom or barrier for each sex act and never use male and female condoms simultaneously. Make sure condoms are stored properly to avoid damage and used correctly.
Use only water-based lubricants with latex condoms to avoid weakening the material. Avoid oil-based lubricants like baby oil or lotion.
Avoid products with chemical irritants (e.g., spermicides) as they may cause irritation and increase STI risk.
Avoid sexual activity if you or your partner have open sores or cuts in genitals or mouth; cover open sores if possible and avoid oral sex with mouth sores.
Communicate openly with partners about STI status, testing history, protection methods, and consent to ensure mutual understanding.
Regular STI and HIV testing is recommended, with most sexually active individuals testing at least annually and more frequent testing for those with multiple or new partners. Vaccinations such as the HPV vaccine series are important in preventing HPV-related illnesses.
Combine condoms with another form of birth control (e.g., hormonal methods) to reduce pregnancy risk further. Abstinence is the only method that prevents both pregnancy and STIs with 100% certainty.
Dr. Nwankwo encourages individuals to educate themselves about their STI before talking to their partner, and to explore prevention strategies to work into the conversation. When disclosing an STI status to a partner, Dr. Nwankwo advises using 'I' statements, such as "I have been diagnosed with an STI and I want to talk to you about it because I care about your health and well-being."
Safer sex should be consensual, respect personal boundaries, honor and acknowledge the limitations of all partners involved, incorporate safe words when applicable, never cause physical harm or psychological trauma, and always be open to understanding your partner's preferences while also honoring your own comfort and safety.
Sexual health is a part of overall health, and Dr. Nwankwo encourages individuals to be honest with themselves about their likes, wants, and potential risks, and to prepare themselves for all aspects of sexual activity. Setting healthy boundaries and defining what you do and don't like are safe sex practices that reinforce and strengthen anyone's relationship with themselves and their partner(s).
[1] Planned Parenthood. (2025). Safer Sex Guide. [Online] Available at: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/teens/safer-sex [Accessed 2025-06-01].
[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Safer Sex. [Online] Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/std/prevention/safer-sex.htm [Accessed 2025-06-01].
[3] World Health Organization. (2025). Safer Sex. [Online] Available at: https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/safer-sex [Accessed 2025-06-01].
[4] American Sexual Health Association. (2025). Safer Sex. [Online] Available at: https://www.ashastd.org/STD-Awareness/Safer-Sex [Accessed 2025-06-01].
[5] National Coalition of STD Directors. (2025). Safer Sex. [Online] Available at: https://www.ncsddc.org/safer-sex [Accessed 2025-06-01].
- The history of safer sex practices dates back to understanding the importance of preventing the exchange of body fluids and providing psychological safety, which has evolved over time as science advances and our understanding of health improves.
- Regularly testing for STIs and HIV, as well as getting vaccinated against HPV, are essential components of a comprehensive approach to maintaining sexual health and wellness, ensuring a healthier environment for personal relationships.
- Adopting safer sex practices such as using condoms and barrier methods, being honest about STI status, and communicating openly with partners helps to foster a more trusting and understanding relationship, contributing to a healthier environment overall.
