ollowing are some sexual activities that are rated for safety. Remember that engaging in hookups (casual sex) and alcohol use are two activities that can increase your risk of acquiring a sexually transmitted infection. Typically, unsafe behaviors involve contact with semen, blood, or other body fluids. Those behaviors that are considered safe include activities that involve no exchange of bodily fluids. Contact your local health clinic or AIDS organization for more information.
Safe
massage hugging dry kissing
body rubbing, dry humping sexual fantasy masturbation (self only) watching erotica phone/computer sex
sex toys (provided condoms are used if toys are shared) taking a bath together
Possibly Safe
French kissing
anal intercourse with condom
vaginal intercourse with condom fisting with glove cunnilingus with dental dam fellatio with condom
anal rimming or analingus with dental dam
vaginal or anal stimulation with fingers using latex glove
Possibly Unsafe
cunnilingus without a dental dam
vaginal or anal stimulation with fingers without latex glove fellatio without a condom
sharing sex toys without cleaning or changing condoms in between uses fisting without a glove
anal rimming or analingus without a dental dam Unsafe
anal intercourse without condom vaginal intercourse without condom blood contact
cunnilingus without a dental dam during menstruation
Source: Adapted from "Safer Sex Basics,” 2005.
more likely to engage in sexual intercourse (and have more sexual partners) than those who do not drink (Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse, 2002).
In Chapter 6, we talked about the importance of communication. Communication is key to safer sex relationships. When there is talk about safe sex, women are more likely than men to bring up the topic (M. Allen et al., 2002). But it’s important for all couples to talk about each other’s past sexual relationships prior to engaging in sexual intercourse or sexual activity. Not only will such openness result in safer sex, it will also result in a healthier relationship.
Throughout this chapter you have learned that human sexuality is shaped by cultural, ethnic, religious, psychological, and biological influences. All of these factors help us to determine what sexual behaviors we will engage in and which are unacceptable for us. These influences also shape our sexual attitudes and our ability to talk about sexuality.