Safe sex

Safe sex refers to sexual activities that decrease the risk of transmitting or acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs), especially when contraceptive methods are used consistently and correctly. Safe sex is also sometimes referred to as safer sex to emphasize that these methods are not completely effective in preventing STIs.

Overview

Safe sex practices can include sexual abstinence, condom use, dental dam use, and vaccination. These methods can be used alone or in combination to reduce the risk of transmission of STIs.

Methods

Sexual abstinence

Sexual abstinence is the practice of refraining from some or all aspects of sexual activity. It is the only method that is 100% effective in preventing STIs.

Condom use

Condoms are barrier devices used during sexual intercourse to reduce the probability of pregnancy and spreading sexually transmitted infections.

Dental dam use

A dental dam is a thin, flexible piece of latex that protects against direct mouth-to-genital or mouth-to-anus contact during oral sex.

Vaccination

Vaccinations are available for some STIs, such as HPV and Hepatitis B.

See also

• Contraception
• Sexually transmitted infection
• Human sexual activity

Safe sex Resources
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References

External links

• CDC - Prevention
• Planned Parenthood - Safer Sex

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