Making Sex Safer

Certain activities can put people at a greater risk of catching or spreading an STI.

Safer Sex:

• the only "safe" sex is no sex (abstinence)

• "safer" sex means using a condom every time with every partner

• get tested with every new partner or at least every six months - it's the only way to know for sure

• limit the number of partners you have

• be careful about "serial monogamy" (a series of serious, committed, faithful, long-term relationships). Testing for STIs is still important.

• communicate expectations opening with your partner about sex, STI protection and birth control

• avoid having sex while under the influence of alcohol or drugs

• never share needles, syringes, pipes, straws or other drug equipment. You may expose yourself to Hep B, Hep C and HIV

• consider other low-risk activities with your partner - kissing and caressing etc.

• never share sex toys and be sure to properly clean and disinfect toys after each use