Important Tips For Safe Sex & Safe Play ~ Part I
// February 12th, 2011 // No Comments » // BDSM Articles, Featured
Generally speaking, an erotic power exchange scene is not more dangerous than any other form of sex, provided you take sufficient precautions. Safe sex is a must, and not only from an HIV point of view.
Condoms
Always use a condom when penetrating, either vaginal or anal. Using condoms when having oral sex is generally advised (you can buy mint or menthol flavoured condoms for this purpose).
This may sound silly, but if you have never bought condoms before, please avoid the vending machines in discotheques, bars, etc. The problem is that you never know how old the condoms are when you buy them. A condom with an expired maximum vending date is unsafe to use, because the latex deteriorates over time.
Do use condoms when penetrating with vibrators, dildos or other toys. When in scene, it is very possible your toys will lay about and attract dust and germs. Using condoms on your toys will keep them in a better condition as well and makes them easier to clean afterwards.
Some people have allergic reactions to the lubricant that is standard on most condoms. If you are not sure, buy non-lubricated condoms with a separate, water-based lubricant.
Dental Dams
It’s a must to use dental dams when rimming (licking the outside anal area) and it’s generally advised for oral-vaginal contact. Outside the USA, dental dams are sometimes hard to get. Contact a center for information about sexually transmitted diseases for addresses.
Latex Gloves
Latex gloves will protect your and your partner from all sorts of things. When penetrating either the vagina or anus, wear gloves. Especially when you’re fisting (including vaginal fisting).
Lubricant
Lubricant makes it easier to penetrate, both vaginal and anal. Buy only water-based lubricants. Oil-based lubricants will ruin your condoms and other latex protective gear in seconds (this goes for your valuable latex clothing as well!). Be aware of the fact that massage oil, baby oil and butter will have the same effect on latex.
Some lubricants contain nonoxynol-9. Some people have allergic reactions to this. If you want to be on the safe side, buy a lubricant without it. On the other hand, nonoxynol-9 makes it a lot more difficult for the HIV virus to survive. If you and your partner(s) are not allergic then it’s worth using.
HIV Risks
All the general stuff about HIV infection (direct blood and sperm contact) of course goes for erotic power exchange as well. Take extra precautions when you are whipping and (accidentally) draw blood or when you are into needle play or cutting. Nipple clamps sometimes may cause bleeding of the nipples, women may experience this more while having a period. Intense stimulation of the nipples – clamps, binding and piercing(!!) – may incidentally cause a woman’s nipple to lactate slightly. Even some men will start to produce small amounts of lactate. Lactate may very well contain the HIV virus. Extra precautions should, of course, be taken if you are into some edge play situations.
