Safe sex

Safe sex is sexual activity that uses precautions to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy. Precautions include barrier methods, contraception, testing, and communication.

Condom: A sheath worn over a penis or inserted into a vagina to reduce pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection risks during sex. Condoms provide barrier protection against both pregnancy and many sexually transmitted infections.
Sexually transmitted infection: An infection transmitted primarily through sexual contact, including infections caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites. Reducing transmission of these infections is a central purpose of safe-sex precautions.
Sexually transmitted disease: A disease or symptomatic condition caused by a sexually transmitted infection. Infection can be present without disease symptoms, so symptom-free partners may still transmit it.
Abstinence: Choosing not to engage in a specified activity, including sexual activity. Abstinence avoids sexual exposure while safe sex reduces risks during sexual activity.
Dental dam: A thin barrier placed over the vulva or anus during oral sex. Dental dams reduce direct contact with fluids and skin during oral sex.
Barrier contraception: Pregnancy prevention methods that physically block sperm from reaching an egg. Condoms and related barriers reduce pregnancy risk by limiting sperm passage.
Unintended pregnancy: A pregnancy that occurs when it was not planned or desired at the time of conception. Preventing unintended pregnancy is distinct from preventing sexually transmitted infections.
Unprotected sex: Sexual activity without precautions intended to reduce infection or pregnancy risks. It contrasts with safe sex, though protection methods differ in effectiveness and coverage.
Internal condom: A pouch inserted into the vagina or anus to provide a barrier during sex. This barrier offers an alternative to an external condom for some kinds of sex.
Human papillomavirus vaccine: Vaccines that prevent infection from HPV types responsible for most cervical cancers and genital warts. Vaccination complements safer-sex practices by preventing infections that barriers cannot always block.

Linked from 5 pages