Safer sex means having sex with less risk of transmission (catching or passing on) of a sexually transmitted infection. STI's include HIV, Syphilis, Chlamydia, Gonorrhoea,  Trichomonas, Herpes, Hepatitis B and Warts.

The risk of catching each infection is different and it also depends on the type of sex you have (for example; oral, vaginal or anal sex).

You can reduce the risk of all infections by:

-Using condoms for all types of penetrative sex (vaginal or anal) and you may also want to use a condom for oral sex

-Having non penetrative sex (such as mutual masturbation)

-Being tested for STI's before having sex with someone new and advising them to also get tested

-Reducing the number of sexual partners you have

-Planning on how you will protect yourself and your sexual partners from infections when under the influence of alcohol or other recreational drugs

-Pack some condoms when your're off on holiday - just in case!

-Reduce the number of partners who you have oral sex with

-Avoiding oral sex if you have any cuts or sores in your mouth

-You could try flavoured condoms or dental dams to protect yourself during oral sex

All of the previous advice given applies to you

If you are living with HIV, the WiSe doctors and nurses will be able to give you detailed advice on safer sex

Taking effective antiretroviral therapy (ART) and having an undetectable viral load significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission during sex

Continuing to use condoms for vaginal, anal and oral sex will further reduce any remaining risk of transmission

Poor adherence (missing your doses of ART) may increase the risk of HIV transmission

If you are living with HIV or you have partners who are or may be HIV positive, it is best to have an STI check regularly depending on your sexual activity