
7 Expert-Approved Tips for a Safer Sex Experience
There’s no such thing as “safe sex” because it’s impossible to eliminate all risks. But you can have safer sex. And if you embrace the idea of safer sex, you can also have better sex. And who doesn’t want that?
Here are a few expert-approved tips to keep in mind the next time you’re ready to get down and dirty with your partner.
Educate Yourself
Communicate More
Both good and safer sex require communication. While we often focus on discussing our needs and desires — and for good reason! — we also need to get better at talking about our sexual health with each other. “The safest practice in any sexual relationship is communication. Talk about testing and get tested before and after each new partner,” advises Jessie McKeon, Our Whole Lives comprehensive sex educator. “Make it normal and, even in a long-term monogamous relationship, an annual practice. Almost every municipality in the US has free and low-cost STI testing options, and that number is even higher in the UK and most of Europe.”
Use Barriers When Needed
Keep Your Sex Toys Clean
We’re not the only one willing to lecture you about cleaning your sex toys. Yes, clean sex toys make for safer sexual experiences. “Actually wash your toys and sexual aids before and after using them. It may sound silly, and it may be the LAST thing you want to do when things are heating up or cooling down, but I have seen far too many UTIs and awkwardly located cases of dermatitis to let this one go. Wash your toys, wash your hands, wash your body. Make smart decisions,” says McKeon.
Pee After Sex
Anal Sex Safety
While anal sex safety isn’t completely different than other types of sex and penetration, it does come with a few extra considerations to make it a safer experience for both partners.
“Hygiene is the first and utmost requirement for anal sex. Empty your bowels and take a warm shower before anal sex. This ensures you are clean down below and lets you focus on the penetration itself rather than worrying about whether there is any leakage or not,” advises Thomas.
“Anal sex is very intimate, so it is very important to have an open discussion with your partner what was pleasurable and what can be improved going forward. By taking this time, you’ll both learn more about your bodies and will deepen the connection between the two of you,” Thomas states.
Experiment with Sex
Conclusion
Does it suck that we didn’t get some of this information before we started having sex? Yes. But that doesn’t mean you can’t educate yourself, improve your sex life, and keep yourself and your partner safer from now on. And if you get better or kinkier sex because of it, that counts as a win.
Have you tried any of these tips before? Do you have more to add? Share with us in the comments below!