A basic guide to safe sex. See How To Pick the Perfect Condom for more in-depth info.

• Condoms, Gloves, and Dams are a must-have for safer sex with partners and toys.

• Never use oil-based lube with latex condoms, gloves, or dams.
  
• For those with latex sensitivities, polyurethane or polyisoprene condoms and dams, plastic wrap, and nitrile gloves are great alternatives. Polyurethane and nitrile can be used with oil-, silicone-, and water-based lube. Use only water-based or silicone-based lube with polyisoprene.
• Be sure your plastic wrap is the non-microwavable type, as microwave wrap has tiny holes and will not protect from infection.
• To create a slippery sensation and increase pleasure for the receiver, use gloves to apply lube to the area beneath the dam or plastic wrap before cunnilingus or analingus.
• Lube is actually a major player in the safer sex arena. It can not only increase the quality and duration of penetrative play, but makes sex safer for both partners, providing a slick cushion that prevents tearing.
• Never use lubricants that contain the spermicide Nonoxynol-9 because it can irritate the skin and actually make you more susceptible to STIs.
• Use extra lube for anal sex and never use oil-based lube with a latex condom.
• Use fresh condoms, gloves, or dams when switching between partners or from the anal area to the vaginal area.

Tags: partner sex, pleasure principles