Pleasure takes many forms, and so does protection
STBBIs don’t just spread through anal or vaginal penetration.
Different types of sexual activity, like oral sex, toy-sharing, genital skin-to-skin contact, or mutual masturbation without protection are behaviours that can all increase the risk of transmission.
Some STBBIs can also be spread through blood, by sharing drug injection or inhalation equipment, or through tattooing and piercing with non-sterile needles.
Tip #1
Book an appointment, even if you don’t have any symptoms
STBBIs don’t always show symptoms. That’s why it’s important to get tested, even if you don’t spot anything unusual.
Tip #2
Disclose all your sexual activities during your screening
During your appointment, don’t just talk about activities that involve penetration.
Do you have oral sex? Share toys? Get tattoos or piercings with possibly non-sterile equipment? Say it.
Tip #3
Don’t forget protection
At the risk of sounding repetitive, STBBIs don’t just spread through vaginal or anal penetration. It’s the same with protection — it doesn’t stop there!
To minimize the risk of transmission during oral sex, masturbation, or when sharing toys, you can always use a dental dam, a latex glove, or a latex finger.
You can procure these protective methods in specialized boutiques, at some student associations, or at your school’s nurse’s office.
Tip #4
Make your own dental dam
If you’re performing cunnilingus or analingus, you should use a dental dam or a small square of latex that you can place over the vulva or anus before mouth or tongue stimulation. You can find these in specialty stores, or make one of your own using your favourite type of condom:
