Essential Insights on Secure Sexual Interactions
In the realm of sexual health, open communication, consistent use of protective methods, and mindful sexual behaviours are key to practising safer sex. Dr. Nwankwo, a leading expert in the field, offers valuable insights on how to navigate this important topic.
Open Communication About Boundaries
Dr. Nwankwo stresses the importance of having open conversations about safe sex practices. These discussions should ideally take place when both partners are relaxed and fully clothed. Active listening and respect for each other's boundaries are essential, recognising that they can change at any time and that consent is ongoing. This approach builds trust and mutual respect, which are fundamental to a healthy sexual relationship.
Use of Protection
Condoms and other barrier methods are effective in reducing the risks of STIs and unintended pregnancies. These should be used correctly for all types of sexual activities, including oral, vaginal, and anal sex. Using appropriate lubricants, such as water-based lubricants with latex condoms, is also crucial. Sharing saliva or sex toys should be avoided to minimise germ transmission.
Positive Framing of Safer Sex
Dr. Nwankwo encourages a positive and non-judgmental approach to safer sex conversations. Rather than focusing on fear or risk, she suggests emphasising pleasure and mutual respect. This approach can increase the likelihood of condom use and safer practices, particularly among younger people.
Practising Safer Sex Activities
Engaging in non-penetrative sex acts, such as kissing, manual stimulation, or mutual masturbation, can help reduce transmission risks. While some skin-to-skin infections remain possible, these methods lower overall exposure.
Mindfulness of Health Conditions
Avoiding sex if either partner has open sores or cuts, particularly in the mouth or genital areas, is crucial as these increase infection risk.
Seeking Guidance
Adolescents or those unsure about contraception and sexual health can seek guidance from trusted adults or healthcare providers. This support can help ensure safer practices.
Setting Healthy Boundaries
Setting healthy boundaries and defining what you do and don't like are safe sex practices that reinforce and strengthen anyone's relationship with themselves and their partner(s). Expressing your limitations holds you and others accountable when it comes to achieving a standard that's right for you in terms of psychological and physical safety.
Regular STI Testing
Dr. Nwankwo encourages regular STI testing, even in monogamous relationships or long-term partnerships. She suggests at least annual testing.
Birth Control Options
There are several birth control options to choose from for pregnancy prevention, including birth control pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), hormonal implants, rings, patches, shots, diaphragms, contraceptive gels or spermicides, the morning-after pill, and condoms.
Pre-exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)
Dr. Nwankwo discusses the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a daily antiviral medication that is 99% effective at preventing an HIV infection. She encourages exploring prevention strategies, such as PrEP for HIV, when discussing one's STI status with partners.
Emergency Contraception
Dr. Nwankwo advises on emergency contraception options, such as Plan B One-Step®, for preventing pregnancy in situations such as having sex without birth control, a condom breaking, missing a birth control shot or dose, or experiencing nonconsensual sex (rape).
Psychological Safety
Psychological safety in safe sex includes being consensual, respecting personal boundaries, honoring and acknowledging the limitations of all partners involved, incorporating safe words when applicable, and never causing physical harm or psychological trauma.
Benefits of Safe Sex
The benefits of safe sex include protection from unintended pregnancy, reduced risk for infections, improved mental stability, self-esteem and self-expression, enhanced self-awareness and compassion, and reduced anxiety or worry about infection or harm.
Safe Sex Practices
Safe sex practices include penetrative sex (inserting a penis or other objects into a vagina, anus or mouth) and nonpenetrative sex (kissing, cuddling, heavy petting, mutual masturbation, frottage). These methods of safer sex are important even in nonpenetrative practices like roleplaying or BDSM.
Risk Factors
While safer sex practices can reduce the risk of infection, there is always a risk factor for getting an STI. Dr. Nwankwo emphasises the importance of self-awareness and being honest with oneself about one's sexual preferences and risks, and preparing oneself for all sexual experiences.
Being Prepared
Dr. Nwankwo also discusses the importance of being prepared for different scenarios, such as one-night stands or unplanned sexual encounters, and always carrying one's own protection. She also encourages honesty and open communication with partners about one's STI status, educating oneself before the conversation, and using clear and direct language when discussing the situation.
Getting Tested
Dr. Nwankwo advises getting tested with a primary care provider within 24 to 48 hours of potential exposure to an STI, and going to an urgent care, express care, or emergency room for STI testing if one does not have a primary care provider.
The Importance of Honesty, Open Communication, and Empathy
Dr. Nwankwo highlights the importance of honesty, open communication, and empathy in navigating conversations about sexual health and well-being. These principles are essential in fostering a safe, respectful, and consensual sexual environment.
By following these strategies, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of STIs and unintended pregnancies, while also fostering a healthier, more fulfilling sexual life.
Dr. Nwankwo advocates for open discussions about safe sex practices, emphasizing the importance of honesty, active listening, and mutual respect in these conversations. This approach can strengthen relationships and promote a psychologically safe environment for all partners.
Implementing protective measures, such as the use of condoms and other barrier methods, is critical for reducing the risks of STIs and unintended pregnancies. This includes their use during oral, vaginal, and anal sex, as well as the application of appropriate lubricants.
Regular STI testing, even in monogamous relationships, is crucial in maintaining sexual health and well-being. This, coupled with regular use of protection and mindful sexual behaviors, can significantly reduce the risk of contracting STIs and unintended pregnancies.
