What are the best practices for safe and healthy sexual intercourse?

Best Practices for Safe and Healthy Sexual Intercourse

The most effective way to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, and unintended pregnancy is to practice abstinence or maintain a mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner who has been tested for STIs. 1

Safer Sex Practices

Before Sexual Activity

• Both partners should get tested for STIs, including HIV, before initiating sexual intercourse 1
• Discuss sexual history, boundaries, and consent with your partner before engaging in sexual activity 1, 2
• Consider vaccination against preventable STIs such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and HPV 1
• Establish clear communication about sexual preferences, boundaries, and contraceptive methods 1, 2

Barrier Methods

• When used consistently and correctly, condoms are highly effective in preventing many STIs, including HIV 1
• For every act of intercourse, use a new latex condom from start to finish 1
• If latex allergies are present, consider polyurethane or other non-latex condoms 1
• When male condoms cannot be used, consider female condoms as an alternative 1
• Remember that barrier methods may be more effective for infections transmitted between mucosal surfaces than those transmitted by skin-to-skin contact 1

Communication and Consent

• Sexual consent must be clearly established before and during any sexual activity 2
• Ongoing communication during sexual activity helps ensure both partners remain comfortable and engaged 1, 2
• Respect when a partner says "no" or indicates discomfort with any sexual activity 2

Special Considerations

For Adolescents and Young Adults

• Comprehensive sexuality education should include information about biological, sociocultural, psychological, relational, and spiritual dimensions of sexuality 1
• Pediatricians and healthcare providers should provide age-appropriate guidance on healthy sexuality and safe sex practices 1
• Parents should be encouraged to communicate with adolescents about healthy sexual development and prevention of STIs 1

For People Using Substances

• Avoid sexual activity while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as this may impair judgment and consent 1
• For injection drug users, never share needles or other injection equipment 1
• Consider enrolling in substance treatment programs if drug use affects sexual decision-making 1

For People with Multiple Partners

• Consistent and correct condom use with every partner is essential 1
• Regular STI testing is recommended, with frequency determined by risk factors 1
• Consider pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention if at high risk 1

Warning Signs and When to Seek Medical Care

• Seek medical attention if you experience unusual discharge, genital sores, pain during urination or intercourse, or other concerning symptoms 3
• Early detection and treatment of STIs is crucial to prevent complications including sexual dysfunction 3
• Untreated STIs can lead to serious conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and increased risk of HIV 1

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not assume that hormonal contraceptives (oral contraceptives, implants, injections) provide any protection against STIs 1
• Spermicides alone do not provide adequate protection against HIV or other STIs 1
• Do not rely on the withdrawal method ("pulling out") as it provides no protection against STIs and is unreliable for pregnancy prevention 1
• Avoid making assumptions about a partner's STI status based on appearance, social status, or verbal assurances 1

By following these evidence-based guidelines, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy while maintaining a healthy and satisfying sex life.