What is safe sex?

Having sex with only one partner who only has sex with you when neither of you has a sexually transmitted infection (STI) is believed to be safe. But many healthcare professionals believe there really is no such thing as safe sex. They believe the only way to be truly safe is not to have sex. All forms of sexual contact carry some risk.

For example, kissing is thought to be a safe activity. But herpes and other diseases can be spread this way.

Condoms are commonly thought to protect against STIs. It's true that condoms are useful in preventing certain diseases such as herpes, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. But they may not fully protect against other diseases, such as genital warts, syphilis, or HIV.

Male condom.

Female condom.

Guidelines for safer sex

Limit your sexual activity to only one partner who is having sex only with you to reduce exposure to disease-causing organisms. Follow these guidelines, which may provide for safer sex:

• Think twice before starting a sexual relationship with a new partner. First, discuss past partners, history of STIs, and drug use.

• Use condoms every time you have sex. Choose a male condom made of latex or polyurethane--not natural materials. Only use polyurethane if you are allergic to latex. Female condoms are made of polyurethane.

• Studies say that nonoxynol-9 spermicide kills HIV in lab testing, but it's not known whether spermicides, used alone or with condoms, provide protection against HIV. There are data that show nonoynol-9 may increase the risk of HIV transmission. But the CDC advises using latex condoms, with or without spermicides, to help prevent sexual transmission of HIV.

• For oral sex, help protect your mouth by having your partner use a condom (male or female).

• Don't drink alcohol or use drugs. They increase the chance that you will participate in high-risk sexual behaviors.  

• People should not douche after intercourse. It does not protect against STIs. It could spread an infection farther into the reproductive tract, and can wash away spermicidal protection.

• Have regular Pap tests, pelvic exams, and periodic tests for STIs.

• Be aware of your partner's body. Look for signs of a sore, blister, rash, or discharge.

• Check your body often for signs of a sore, blister, rash, or discharge.

• Consider sexual activities other than vaginal, oral, or anal sex. These are techniques that don't involve the exchange of body fluids or contact between mucous membranes.