Sex and prevention concerns
for positive people

September 2002     View PDF     En español

Safer sex guidelines

In addition to protecting from HIV infection and transmission, practicing safer sex also reduces the risk of passing or contracting other diseases, like chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes and hepatitis. These can be especially troublesome in people with weakened immune systems. A few tips on how to protect yourself and your partner during sex are found below.

One word: Plastics!
Use latex condoms and plenty of water-based lubricant (K-Y Jelly, Astroglide, Probe) for vaginal and anal sex. If you’re sensitive (allergic) to latex, try polyurethane condoms (Avanti). The female condom (Reality) is also made of polyurethane. However, polyurethane condoms may have higher breakage problem than latex.

Protect the environment and your condoms!
Don’t use oil-containing lubricants like Crisco, Vaseline, baby oil, lotion, or whipped cream as they can destroy latex. (Note: Oil-based lubes can be safely used with polyurethane condoms). Good water-based lubricants last longer and often feel better anyway.

Read the label!
Many people avoid products with the spermicide, Nonoxynol-9. Some studies now show it can cause irritation that may promote STD infections, including HIV.

Wrap it to go!
For oral sex with a man, it’s safest to use a condom. For oral sex with a woman or oral-anal sex (rimming), it’s safest to use a dental dam (latex square), plastic food wrap, or a condom or latex glove cut to make a flat sheet.

Try a breath mint instead!
Avoid brushing or flossing your teeth up to two hours before or after oral sex to minimize small cuts. Be aware of bleeding gums, cuts or sores on or in the mouth.

Let your fingers do the walking!
Use latex gloves for hand jobs (sex with your hands) or fisting. Try powder-free latex or polyurethane gloves for folks who are sensitive to latex.

Good clean fun!
If you share sex toys (like dildos or vibrators), put on a fresh condom for each user and/or when going to or from the anus and vagina. Clean toys with bleach, alcohol or soap and water between uses.

On the wild side!
Avoid contact with blood, semen and vaginal and anal fluids. Sex toys like whips or knives can break the skin and should not be used on another person until they’re disinfected with bleach or cleaning solution.