• Vaginal sex
• Anal sex
• Oral sex
• Oral anal contact
• Fingers or objects in the vagina or anus (if they have these fluids on them)”.²

The risk of catching each infection is different, and also varies according to the type of sex you are having (such as oral, vaginal or anal sex)”.³

• “Choose a partner carefully
• Discuss sexual histories with your partner, and don’t let embarrassment compromise your health
• Always insist that a male partner use a latex condom for genital, oral, and anal sex unless you are in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship. Never use petroleum-based products like Vaseline or baby oil to lubricate condoms because they can cause condoms to break
• Don’t let a male partner’s erection difficulties keep him from using a condom. Dream up some erotic or stimulating methods for putting on the condom to keep his erection going. If all else fails, get a female condom
• Have an annual physical exam, including a Pap test and lab tests to identify STIs if you are at any risk
• If you are exposed to an STI or have received a confirmed diagnosis, urge any partners to be tested and treated
• Consider having both you and your partner checked for STIs before starting a sexual relationship”.⁷

Condoms are an effective barrier against most STIs. This includes HIV as well. Some STIs, such as herpes, genital warts and pubic lice, may still be spread even if a condom is used. They are spread by skin-to-skin contact.

Oral sex is not the answer to avoiding STIs as herpes, gonorrhoea and chlamydia can all be transmitted through unprotected oral sex.

Use dental dams if you are having oral sex with other women. Dental dams are small sheets of latex rubber that act as a shield between the vagina and the mouth.

Practising safer sex is important at any time including during your period”.⁸

• Prevent transfer of any body fluids (including menstrual blood and vaginal fluids) into cuts, scrapes, or other openings
• During oral or vulva-to-vulva sex, cover your partner’s vaginal area with a dental dam or similar latex barrier to avoid contact with secretions
• Avoid sharing sex toys. Either clean them in hot, soapy water or use a new condom before switching users.

Keep in mind that oral sex with a partner who has a cold sore or fever blister can transfer the herpes virus to you if your mouth or genitals come into contact with the sore”.⁹

• “Have a check-up for STIs before having sex with a new partner
• Use condoms
• Use dams for oral sex
• Talk to partners about sexual health
• Limit the number of sexual partners to reduce your risk”.¹⁰

There is absolutely no need to suffer (or let your relationship suffer) in silence”.¹¹