A great deal of attention was paid to safe sex in the 1980s, when HIV first became a concern. Mass awareness campaigns highlighted the necessity of using condoms during sex to minimise the risk of spreading sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). But in time, it became apparent that no sex can be called 100% safe. This is particularly true in case of genital herpes. When you have a virus in your body that can spread sexually transmitted infections (STIs), you need to engage in 'safer' sex practices to reduce the risk of transmission to your healthy partner.
People often think that sex is only about intercourse. It is not. Kissing, fondling or even holding hands are physical manifestations of sexual intimacy. When you have herpes and are actively into sex, you may think that using condom is a safe option to prevent transmitting the virus to your partner. But think twice. Genital herpes is one of the most contagious sexually transmitted diseases and using a condom may not fully cover your genitals. And in any case, what if the condom breaks? How do you prevent transmission while kissing or fondling your partner? These are some of the questions that should make you think about safer sex options.
How to make love in a 'safer' way?
Many couples have sex in creative ways to minimise the risk of herpes transmission. To make sex creative, you need to talk to your partner first. Mutual cooperation and understanding must be there for trying out innovative postures that reduce outright exposure of the genitals. But such activities are usually very difficult to perform. So the next option you have is using protective methods such as condoms, latex gloves and sheets. But using all types of barriers at the same time may make sex a bit clumsy. Besides, if the sore is at the base of the penis, or to one side of the labia, a barrier may not fully cover the infected area. So there are more safer sex options you can try to prevent spreading and/or getting infected with sexually transmitted diseases.
Single partner
Having a single sex partner helps prevent transmission of herpes and other sexually transmitted infections. As for herpes, the virus that causes it can stay inactive inside the body for an indefinite period of time. So if you are having sex with more than one partner, the chance of you knowing about the medical history of your 'present' partner is very less, as you may have struck up the relation only recently.
Learn how to wear and remove a condom
This may sound trivial, but it is not. Many youngsters still fumble while wearing or removing condoms. Do not rush while putting on a condom; take your time and wear it properly. Probably a good time to learn is when you are alone.
One condom at a time
Condoms are not made for reuse. So throw away the used condom after sex, buy a new one and use it the next time.
No sex after drinking alcohol
Avoid sex when you are under the influence of alcohol. Alcohol can reduce your situational awareness and you may not be able to wear the condom properly.
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