Always use condoms for vaginal and anal sex
Basically, unless you really, really know your partner and their sexual history don’t risk your long term sexual health for a quick bit of fun. If you don’t wear a condom/barrier you could catch one or more STI’s including HIV/AIDS and if you are a hetero female you can get pregnant too. Yes, we know we’re stating the obvious, and we don’t want to blind you with science, facts and figures. Invest in your future and be safe - after all, it’s not just your partners’ sexual history you have to be aware of, but their ex-partners’ sexual history and their ex-partners’ sexual history and so on. Be up-front, insist on safe sex and know there’ll be no problems later on.
Have protected oral sex
Now here’s something people don’t seem too aware of - you can catch some STI’s through oral sex, especially if one or both partners have even a small cut or abrasion. Once again, it's up to you. Obviously you can use condoms on a penis, but for vaginal or anal use you’ll have to use a flat barrier such as a cut open condom, a dental dam, clingfilm or a cut open latex glove.
Take care of your latex products/condoms
This one’s common sense really. Never use a condom twice and never use more than one condom at a time – they’ll split. Check sell by dates and keep all latex products out of direct sunlight – they’ll perish. If in doubt get some new ones, a small price to pay for remaining healthy.
Use loads of lube
And we mean loads, for both men and women! Especially for anal play as the anus is naturally dry and non-lubricating. It will probably change your sex life for the better and is ideal for massage, intercourse and masturbation. Start with a waterbased lube for best results.
Use latex compatible lubes for safer sex
In other words, for your latex safe sex products to remain fully safe you should only use waterbased lube with them. Oil based lubes are NON-COMPATIBLE with latex as they rot it and they are also difficult to wash out of your orifices.
Latex allergy
For those of you with a latex allergy you should stear clear of latex condoms and invest in some non-latex ones! They do exist but unfortunately they are a lot more expensive. Ask us for more info.
Use condoms on inertable toys
This isn’t always possible or practical or desirable, but we do recommend it on shared toys, or toys used for both the vagina and the anus, as it cuts down on transmission of bacteria/infections.
Keep all toys clean
It is important for hygiene reasons to thoroughly clean your toys after use. Use a specific toy cleaner or simply rinse with warm soapy water and dry with a towel - do not immerse battery operated toys fully in water unless they are waterproof ones. The toys will also last a lot longer if you look after them properly, giving you better value for money.
Be aware of STD’S / STI’S
You don’t have to spend hours researching, just be aware that STI’s do exist and are fairly easy to catch but not so easy to get rid of. It is better to be safe than to be in discomfort and have to spend hours at the STI clinic. Don’t just stick your head in the sand, as if it’s just always someone else’s problem.
Respect your partner and each others boundaries
Sex is a two way thing from start to finish - unless you are masturbating of course. Do listen to your partner and his/her wishes as you would wish to be listened to in return and remember ‘No’ does actually mean ‘No’. Not everyone is ready to try new things at the same time as you, so be gentle and patient and respect your partner.
Communication is vital
Tell your partner what you’re thinking, how you’re feeling, what pleases you and what doesn’t – us humans aren’t blessed with the skill of mind reading yet! You only live once and if you spend your life hiding from your emotions and desires you may live to regret it. Plan to enjoy it, set time aside, relax and off you go. If you don’t ask you won’t get!
This guide is for general information only. We are not health professionals, but we do care. Always consult a professional!