Practice safer sex. There is no such thing as “safe sex.” The only “safe sex” is no sex! However, condoms – both male and female – can help keep you safer. Condoms are 99.9% effective in preventing the transmission of HIV and other STIs if used consistently and correctly for sexual encounters.
Latex, polyurethane and polyisoprene are the most effective condoms for HIV and STI prevention. Stay away from using natural or lamb skin condoms, as they do not provide protection against HIV and other STIs. They are only effective in preventing pregnancy.
Additionally, for oral-anal play or oral-vaginal play, a dental dam can serve as a barrier to prevent an individual from coming in contact with any of the body fluids (blood, semen, vaginal fluid) that help spread HIV. Like condoms, dental dams must be used consistently and correctly in order to help reduce risk. When in doubt on how to correctly use condoms or dental dams, follow the directions on the packaging.