At Lace & Tassels, we believe in the power of education and inclusivity when it comes to sexual wellness. We also value the feedback of our amazing community, and when we asked what you wanted to see more of, the resounding response was for more queer-focused content and education around safer sex!
As proud members of the LGBTQ+ community ourselves, we are thrilled to oblige and kickstart the conversation, so let's dive deep into the intersections of pleasure, pride, and safer sexual practices!
Demystifying STIs Among Same-Sex Couples
When it comes to sexual health, it's important to shatter the misconceptions and ensure accurate information for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. In mainstream media, the focus of STI prevention often centers on cisgender heterosexual couples or gay men. However, the reality is that STI transmission can affect anyone, including sapphic women and individuals in all types of relationships. Understanding the dynamics of STI transmission among same-sex couples and beyond is crucial for making informed decisions and prioritizing sexual health.
Exploring Safer Sex Practices and Glove Use
Safety should always be a priority in our pursuit of pleasure. While some safer sex practices are widely known, others are not as commonly discussed. For example, glove use as a hygienic barrier during manual stimulation, for anal or vaginal play, is one of those that are lesser known. Gloves not only enhance safety by significantly reducing the risk of STI transmission, but they also provide a smoother and more enjoyable experience. It's worth considering the risks involved with finger cuts and the insertion of fingers into the anus or vagina.
When choosing gloves, we recommend opting for non-latex alternatives like nitrile or polyurethane to accommodate latex allergies or sensitivities. And don’t forget the power of lubricants! Using water-based lubricants can enhance comfort, reduce friction, and make the experience even more pleasurable! Remember, it's all about prioritizing both pleasure and safety after all.
The Hidden Magic of Dental Dams & Oral Underwear
When it comes to oral sex, protection is often overlooked. However, it's important to recognize that the transmission of STIs can occur during oral activities as well. Enter dental dams—the unsung heroes of safer oral sex. Dental dams are thin barriers that provide protection and reduce the risk of STI transmission during oral-vaginal or oral-anal contact. While they may be challenging to find in some areas, fear not! You can create your own dental dams using a condom. Simply cut off the tip and make a horizontal cut along the length, creating a flat latex or polyurethane barrier.
Innovative brands like Lorals also offer dental dam-inspired underwear for a unique and comfortable oral experience. With FDA clearance and a commitment to safer oral sex and rimming, they're taking dental dams to the next level with oral underwear!
Prioritizing Body-Safe Toys and Hygiene Practices
Introducing sex toys into our intimate experiences can be a thrilling and explorative journey. However, it's essential to prioritize safety and be mindful of the materials used in sex toys. Some materials, like Jelly, Rubber, PVC, and cheap plastics, which are commonly found in certain toys, are porous and can be difficult to clean thoroughly. This porosity can potentially harbour bacteria and increase the risk of infections or allergic reactions.
To ensure a safer and more hygienic experience, it's recommended to choose sex toys made from body-safe materials such as medical-grade silicone, stainless steel, or borosilicate glass. These materials are non-porous, hypoallergenic, and easier to clean. Look for reputable brands that prioritize quality and adhere to safety standards, brands like Satisfyer and LELO.
Remember, personal toy ownership is also crucial to prevent the transmission of STIs. If toys are shared between partners, thorough cleaning or the use of a condom, dam or oral underwear as a barrier is highly recommended. Cleaning toys with mild soap and warm water or using toy-specific cleaners is essential to maintain their integrity and minimize the risk of infections.
Sexual Health Resources for the LGBTQ+ Community
Last but not least seeking professional guidance and support, along with regular checks, is crucial for maintaining optimal sexual health. Thankfully, numerous LGBTQ+-friendly sexual health resources are available in Ireland, the UK and the EU. These organizations offer a wide range of services, including testing, counseling, support networks, and educational materials. Here are a few noteworthy resources to explore:
- LGBT Foundation (https://lgbt.foundation): Offering a variety of sexual health services, testing, advice, and support for the LGBTQ+ community.
- Gay Men's Health Collective (http://gmhc.ie): Providing sexual health information, resources, and support specifically tailored to gay and bisexual men.
- HIV Ireland (https://www.hivireland.ie): Delivering comprehensive sexual health resources, HIV testing, counseling, and support for individuals and communities affected by HIV.
- Sexual Health Ireland (https://www.sexualhealth.ie): Offering inclusive sexual health information and resources, including safer sex practices, STI prevention, and testing.
- TENI (Transgender Equality Network Ireland) (https://www.teni.ie): Providing a range of support services, sexual health resources, and guidance specifically tailored to the transgender community.
By accessing these resources and seeking professional guidance, you can gain comprehensive sexual health knowledge from experts, find LGBTQ+-friendly services, and connect with supportive communities that prioritize you and your wellbeing.
Here's to Pride & Safer Sex!
- Vannpyra Wynters
Disclaimer: We have made our best efforts to ensure that this article is inclusive, factual, and informative. However, we acknowledge that as fallible humans, we may not always get it 100% right. If you notice any areas where improvements can be made or if you feel something is misrepresented or excluded, please reach out to us. We value your feedback and are committed to making it right.
