A Guide to Safe Sex Practices for Men this Holiday Season

The holiday season is a time for celebrations. It is a time for vacations and spending time with loved ones. The festive atmosphere of the holidays increases the mood for sex. Whether it’s with a loved one or a casual partner, one thing is for sure, safe sex should be in everybody’s mind. According to statistics released by the World Health Organization, more than 1 million people between the ages of 15 and 49 acquire curable sexually transmitted infections each day. 39.9 million people live with HIV worldwide at the end of 2023. Practising safe sex is the best way to avoid being part of these statistics.?

Making sex safer?

Although the holiday season is about having fun, responsible and safe sex should always be on your mind. Here is a guide to help you avoid unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections without cramping your sex life.?

Use condoms correctly?

Condoms are effective barriers that protect against most STIs. It is also effective in preventing unintended pregnancies. However, you need to know how to effectively use a condom to reap its benefits. Use latex or polyurethane condoms. Lambskin condoms are ineffective against STIs. Use a new condom for each act of intercourse. This means that you should discard the condom you use for oral sex if you are switching to vaginal penetration or anal sex.?

Get vaccinated?

Get vaccinated, particularly against HPV and Hepatitis B. Although HPV is more common in women, men can also get and pass HPV. Human papillomavirus can cause cervical cancer in women and anal and throat cancer in men. On the other hand, Hepatitis B is a deadly liver infection that you can get or pass through sexual intercourse.???

Get tested regularly?

Getting tested regularly can help provide you with peace of mind. Remember that many STIs are asymptomatic or do not show symptoms. However, they are still transmissible. Get tested before starting a new sexual relationship or after engaging in unprotected sex. Get yourself tested regularly if you have multiple sex partners.????

Use lubrication?

Although the main use of lubrication is to make vaginal or anal penetration easier, lubricants can help protect you from STIs. Lubricants reduce friction during sexual intercourse. Reduced friction prevents tears in condoms that make you vulnerable to STIs.?

Communicate with your partner?

An open and honest line of communication can save you from a load of headaches. Talk to your partner about your STI history and contraceptive use. Discuss with your partner whether or not you have an exclusive or non-exclusive arrangement. It is also important to talk about sexual boundaries and obtain consent before engaging in sexual intercourse.?

Practice sexual hygiene?

Sexual hygiene is important. Shower before and after sexual intercourse. Thoroughly washing your hands and genitals reduces the risk of infections. Aside from helping reduce the risk of STIs, sexual hygiene can also help prevent urinary tract infections or UTIs, especially in women.?

Avoid drugs and excessive alcohol?

Using drugs and consuming excessive amounts of alcohol can impair your judgment. This can lead to poor decision-making, including engaging in unprotected sex, which can result in STIs. It is also important to remember that people who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol are unable to provide consent.?

Avoid risky sexual practices?

High-risk behaviours, like engaging in unprotected anal sex increase the risk of STI transmission. You should also avoid sharing sex toys and paraphernalia, like dildos, cock rings, or butt plugs. If unavoidable, make sure to clean them before sharing.?

Limit your number of partners?

Having multiple sex partners may sound cool, but it increases your risk of STIs. Having multiple sex partners also makes it more challenging to keep track of regular testing for STIs.?

Know your emergency options?

Know what to do during emergency situations. Plan B or similar pills are your best options if you want to avoid unintended pregnancy after engaging in unprotected sex. However, you need to take them within 71 to 120 hours after doing the deed. If you are afraid of contracting HIV after unprotected sex, you can reduce your risk by taking Post-Exposure Prophylaxis or PEP within 72 hours after a potential exposure.?????

Know your symptoms?

Knowledge is your friend. Learn about common STI symptoms, like itching, pain during sex, sores, or unusual bodily discharges. Go to your doctor immediately if you or your partner experience STI symptoms.?

Conclusion?

Sex is fun and fulfilling, especially during the holidays. But it should also be safe. Always use a condom, get tested, use lubricants, and avoid risky sexual practices. It is also best to learn about the symptoms of STIs and to get tested regularly. Safe sex practices help ensure that you can have sex without guilt and fear. It helps make sure that you and your partner are free from sexually transmitted infections. Practising safe sex means having a healthy physical, emotional, and mental well-being.??