Ask Oz May 2022: Your Questions Answered

Ask Oz May 2022 – Thanks for all the support to our loyal readers. This month’s qusetions are around oral sex and safe sex.

Ask Oz May 2022

Hey Oz; My boyfriend loves me giving him head.  In saying that I am not adverse to him going down on me either.  What safe oral sex practices should we follow?

A.  Safe sex practices are essential, whether you’re engaging in sexual activity with a partner or oral sex.  Good news is that there are several ways to minimize the risks of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during oral sex, both for men and women.

Here are some safe oral sex tip for those of you that shout I love oral.

For Men

One of the most important safety practices is using a condom or dental dam. A condom can help protect against STIs that may be transmitted through semen or pre-cum, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HIV.

A dental dam is a thin sheet of latex that can be placed over the anus or vulva during oral sex to prevent the spread of STIs such as herpes, syphilis, and HPV.

As a precautiion ask each other about your sexual history before engaging in oral sex with a new partner. This can help you both make informed decisions about what safety measures to take.

For Women

Remember that oral sex can also transmit STIs such as HPV, chlamydia, and gonorrhea. Using a dental dam can provide protection against these infections, and it’s also important to get regular STI screenings to catch any infections early.

While oral sex is generally considered lower risk than other forms of sexual activity, there is still a risk of contracting an STI.  If you’re unsure about your partner’s sexual history or if you’re experiencing any symptoms such as itching, burning, or discharge.  Get tested and seek medical advice.

Regular STI screenings are important steps for minimizing the risk of infection.

Hey Oz; I like to practice safe sex but I have trouble putting on a condom.  Half the time, the effort involved means my erection is gone through the effort.  Other times it is half on.  Have tried lubing it up, but that did not work.  What techniques can you suggest to make putting a condom easier?

A.  Putting on a condom can seem like a daunting task.  But it’s an important step in protecting yourself and your partner from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy.

It’s completely normal to struggle with putting on a condom at first.  But with practice and some helpful tips, it can become a quick and easy part of your sexual routine.

• Have the right size condom.

Condoms come in different sizes and materials, so it’s important to find one that fits comfortably and securely.  A condom that is too tight can break or tear.  While one that is too loose may slip off during sex. If you’re not sure which size to choose, consider trying different options or speaking to a healthcare provider for advice.

• Make sure you’re putting on the condom at the right time.

Condoms should be put on before any genital contact occurs, such as oral sex or penetration. This is because pre-ejaculate fluid (pre-cum) can also contain STIs and sperm, so  have the condom ready beforehand.

• You’re Ready to Put the Condom On

When you’re ready to put on the condom, take it out of the packet and make sure it is not expired or damaged. Pinch the tip of the condom to leave room for semen and place it on the head of the penis. Roll the condom down to the base of the penis, making sure there are no air bubbles or twists in the condom.

If you’re having trouble getting the condom on, try using some water-based lubricant to help it slide more easily.

But if you’re still struggling to put on a condom, you may want to consider other forms of protection.  Or speaking with a healthcare provider or sexual health educator for additional guidance.

Using condoms consistently and correctly can greatly reduce your risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy.

If you’re not interested in sex due to the effort, communicate this with your partner.  Explore ways to make sex more enjoyable and comfortable for both of you. This may include trying different positions, using lubrication, or finding other ways to connect intimately that don’t involve penetration.

Putting on a condom may take some practice and patience.  But it’s a crucial step in protecting yourself and your partner during sexual activity. Remember to use the right size condom, put it on before any genital contact, and use lubricant if needed.