What Is Safer Sex?
Safer sex refers to practices that reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy. No approach eliminates all risk — but combining practices dramatically reduces it.
Communication
Talk with your partner(s) about sexual health: share testing history, discuss contraception preferences, and be honest about other partners you may have. Clear communication is the foundation of safer sex.
Testing
Get tested regularly for common STIs. For most sexually active adults, at least annual testing is a reasonable baseline. Testing every 3-6 months is recommended for those with multiple partners.
Barrier Methods
Use external or internal condoms correctly and consistently. Use dental dams for oral-vaginal or oral-anal contact. Use water-based lubricant with latex condoms. Check expiry dates on condoms before use.
Additional Prevention Tools
Depending on your situation and risk level, additional options include PrEP, HPV vaccination, hepatitis B vaccination, and regular STI screening. Discuss these with your healthcare provider.
What To Do After a Potential Exposure
If you believe you may have been exposed to an STI, contact a sexual health clinic or your family doctor promptly. For HIV, PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis) may be an option if started within 72 hours of exposure.