Guidelines for safer sex:

What is "safe" sex?
Sex in a monogamous relationship where neither party is infected with a sexually transmitted disease (STD) is believed to be "safe". However, many healthcare professionals believe there really is no such thing as "safe" sex. They believe the only way to be truly safe is to abstain -- because all forms of sexual contact carry some risk.

Safer Sex For example, kissing is thought to be a safe activity, but herpes, and other diseases can be contracted this way.

Safer Sex Condoms are commonly thought to protect against STDs. However, while it is true that condoms are useful in preventing certain diseases, such as herpes and gonorrhea, they may not fully protect against other diseases such as genital warts, syphilis, or AIDS. On the average, pregnancy occurs among committed couples using condoms every five years.

Guidelines for safer sex:
Limit your sexual activity toonly one partner who is having sex only with you to reduce exposure to disease-causing organisms, and follow these guidelines, which may provide for safer sex:

Think twice before beginning sexual relations with a new partner. First discuss past partners, history of STDs, and drug use. Consider getting tested for HIV together.

Use condoms:

> a male condom made of latex or polyurethane -- not natural materials.

> a female condom made of polyurethane -- particularly if your partner will not use a male condom.

In addition to a condom, always use a spermicide to provide additional protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

For oral sex, help protect your mouth by having your partner use a condom (male or female).

Women should not douche after intercourse -- it does not protect against STDs, could spread an infection farther into the reproductive tract, and can wash away spermicidal protection.

Have annual Pap tests, pelvic examinations, and periodic tests for STDs.

Be aware of your partner's body -- look for signs of a sore, blister, rash, or discharge.

Check your body frequently for signs of a sore, blister, rash, or discharge.

Consider sexual activities other than vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse -- techniques that do not involve the exchange of body fluids or contact between mucous membranes, such as those in the vagina, anus, and mouth.