Safe Sex

Practicing safe sex is a critical part of your overall well-being

We established our San Antonio women’s health team to support our patients through all the ages and stages of their lives, from puberty to pregnancy to menopause and beyond. An important component of a woman’s health is her sex life. As your trusted medical providers, our doctors want to ensure that you have accurate information about the importance of safe sex to prevent STIs, or sexually transmitted infections.

Why does safe sex matter?

At one time, women were taught that sexual activity was only meant for reproduction. As society has evolved, women have learned to enjoy the physical and emotional bonds created through sexual intimacy. Sharing this kind of connection with another human being requires thoughtful consideration so that you and your partner both feel respected and safe, which includes protection against unplanned pregnancy and STIs.

What are STIs?

A sexually transmitted infection, also referred to as an STD, is an umbrella term used to describe a variety of medical conditions that can be passed from person to person during unprotected sexual activity. Currently, STI is preferred over STD because of the stigma often associated with the term “disease,” especially as it related to moral thoughts and implications around sexual behavior.

The important point is to understand that sexual activity without protection increases the chances of STIs, which jeopardize your overall health. Depending on the STI, you could face lasting effects on your physical and mental health.

Common STIs include the following.

Are some types of “sex” safer than others?

Unfortunately, the short answer is no. Any sexual contact that involves the exchange of bodily fluid can pose a potential risk, so abstinence is the only true protection against STIs. Certain activities such as cuddling, mutual masturbation and massage, however, offer an opportunity for intimate connections with less risk of infection transmission.

How do you protect yourself when you are sexually active?

Our San Antonio Women’s Health team believes that our patients deserve to experience the joy and pleasure provided by a healthy, active sex life. The best way to do that is to implement safe sex practices with all your intimacy partners.

We encourage you to get comfortable having the hard, but necessary conversations. Consider the following suggestions related to safe sex precautions.

  • Use barrier protection, such as condoms or dental dams, for vaginal, anal and oral sex
  • Schedule regular STI screenings, especially if you have a new partner
  • Avoid sexual contact if you or your partner have visible sores, rashes or symptoms
  • Review birth control options to prevent unwanted pregnancy
  • Openly discuss limits, expectations and current STI status with your partner

You deserve the best life has to offer, including an active sex life. At Live Oak Women’s Health, we are committed to supporting and empowering our patients, which includes education around safe sex. Call our office to schedule an appointment.