STIs: Not Just a Straight People Thing
STIs: Not Just a Straight People Thing
Jan 30, 2025
2 minute read
2 minute read
2 minute read
Today we’ve got another important but way underdiscussed sapphic topic to talk about… STIs and prevention. Buckle up for some real talk about keeping our sexual health in check!
First things first: yes, STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) can and do happen in sapphic relationships. We might not have the same risks as straight couples, but we're not immune. Here's what you need to know:
Common STIs in Sapphic Relationships:
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Yeast Infections
Herpes
HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
Trichomoniasis
Less common, but still possible:
Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
Syphilis
HIV
How They Spread:
Skin-to-skin contact
Sharing sex toys without proper cleaning
Oral sex
Fingering or fisting with minor cuts on hands
Way to Protect Yourself:
Dental Dams: Your BFF for oral sex. No dam? Cut open a condom - instant DIY dam!
Gloves: Great for fingering, especially with longer nails.
Regular Testing: Knowledge is power, babes!
Open Communication: Talk about sexual health with your partners.
Clean Your Toys: Before and after use, and between partners. Here are some recommendations:
Wash with mild, unscented soap and warm water before and after each use. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
For non-porous materials like silicone, glass, or stainless steel, you can also use a 10% bleach solution or boil for 3-5 minutes to sanitize.
Avoid harsh chemicals or alcohol-based cleaners which can degrade materials.
For porous materials like rubber or jelly, use soap and water only. Consider using condoms with these toys for better hygiene.
Store toys separately in clean, dry places after cleaning.
Check toys regularly for any signs of damage and replace as needed.
Note that following these cleaning practices not only helps prevent infections… it also helps maintain the longevity of your toys!
PrEP: Not Just for the Gay Boys
Now, let's talk about PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis). You might think it's just for gay men, but listen up:
What is PrEP?
A daily pill that significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission.
It's for HIV-negative folks who might be at risk of exposure.
Why Should Sapphics Care?
Some of us have partners of all genders or partners who have partners of all genders.
Transgender women in our community might benefit.
It's an extra layer of protection for those who use injection drugs.
Getting on PrEP:
Talk to your doctor or visit an LGBTQ+ friendly clinic.
Get tested for HIV and other STIs.
Check your kidney function (PrEP can affect it).
Follow up regularly for monitoring.
Remember: PrEP doesn't protect against other STIs, so it's not a replacement for other safer sex practices!
Myths and Misconceptions:
Let's bust some myths, shall we?
Myth 1: "Lesbians can't get STIs." Reality: Oh honey, we absolutely can.
Myth 2: "PrEP is only for gay men." Reality: It's for anyone at risk of HIV exposure, regardless of gender or sexuality.
Myth 3: "Using protection makes sex less intimate." Reality: Taking care of each other's health is super intimate and caring!
Bringing up STIs and protection doesn't have to be awkward:
Make it part of your sexy talk: "I want to taste you... let's grab a dental dam!"
Frame it as mutual care: "I care about both our health, let's get tested together."
Be matter-of-fact: "Before we go further, let's chat about our sexual health."
Remember, someone who doesn't respect your health concerns isn't worth your time!
Taking Care of You:
Regular Check-ups: Visit your gyno or LGBTQ+ health clinic annually.
Know Your Status: Get tested regularly, especially with new partners.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about sexual health in our community.
Self-Checks: Get to know your body so you can spot any changes.
The Bottom Line:
Sapphics, we need to look out for each other! Taking care of our sexual health is an act of self-love and community care. Whether you're a gold star lesbian, a bi babe, or anywhere on the queer spectrum, your health matters.
So, let's make safer sex sexy, normalize talking about STIs, and keep our community healthy and thriving! 🌈💖
Today we’ve got another important but way underdiscussed sapphic topic to talk about… STIs and prevention. Buckle up for some real talk about keeping our sexual health in check!
First things first: yes, STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) can and do happen in sapphic relationships. We might not have the same risks as straight couples, but we're not immune. Here's what you need to know:
Common STIs in Sapphic Relationships:
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Yeast Infections
Herpes
HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
Trichomoniasis
Less common, but still possible:
Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
Syphilis
HIV
How They Spread:
Skin-to-skin contact
Sharing sex toys without proper cleaning
Oral sex
Fingering or fisting with minor cuts on hands
Way to Protect Yourself:
Dental Dams: Your BFF for oral sex. No dam? Cut open a condom - instant DIY dam!
Gloves: Great for fingering, especially with longer nails.
Regular Testing: Knowledge is power, babes!
Open Communication: Talk about sexual health with your partners.
Clean Your Toys: Before and after use, and between partners. Here are some recommendations:
Wash with mild, unscented soap and warm water before and after each use. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
For non-porous materials like silicone, glass, or stainless steel, you can also use a 10% bleach solution or boil for 3-5 minutes to sanitize.
Avoid harsh chemicals or alcohol-based cleaners which can degrade materials.
For porous materials like rubber or jelly, use soap and water only. Consider using condoms with these toys for better hygiene.
Store toys separately in clean, dry places after cleaning.
Check toys regularly for any signs of damage and replace as needed.
Note that following these cleaning practices not only helps prevent infections… it also helps maintain the longevity of your toys!
PrEP: Not Just for the Gay Boys
Now, let's talk about PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis). You might think it's just for gay men, but listen up:
What is PrEP?
A daily pill that significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission.
It's for HIV-negative folks who might be at risk of exposure.
Why Should Sapphics Care?
Some of us have partners of all genders or partners who have partners of all genders.
Transgender women in our community might benefit.
It's an extra layer of protection for those who use injection drugs.
Getting on PrEP:
Talk to your doctor or visit an LGBTQ+ friendly clinic.
Get tested for HIV and other STIs.
Check your kidney function (PrEP can affect it).
Follow up regularly for monitoring.
Remember: PrEP doesn't protect against other STIs, so it's not a replacement for other safer sex practices!
Myths and Misconceptions:
Let's bust some myths, shall we?
Myth 1: "Lesbians can't get STIs." Reality: Oh honey, we absolutely can.
Myth 2: "PrEP is only for gay men." Reality: It's for anyone at risk of HIV exposure, regardless of gender or sexuality.
Myth 3: "Using protection makes sex less intimate." Reality: Taking care of each other's health is super intimate and caring!
Bringing up STIs and protection doesn't have to be awkward:
Make it part of your sexy talk: "I want to taste you... let's grab a dental dam!"
Frame it as mutual care: "I care about both our health, let's get tested together."
Be matter-of-fact: "Before we go further, let's chat about our sexual health."
Remember, someone who doesn't respect your health concerns isn't worth your time!
Taking Care of You:
Regular Check-ups: Visit your gyno or LGBTQ+ health clinic annually.
Know Your Status: Get tested regularly, especially with new partners.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about sexual health in our community.
Self-Checks: Get to know your body so you can spot any changes.
The Bottom Line:
Sapphics, we need to look out for each other! Taking care of our sexual health is an act of self-love and community care. Whether you're a gold star lesbian, a bi babe, or anywhere on the queer spectrum, your health matters.
So, let's make safer sex sexy, normalize talking about STIs, and keep our community healthy and thriving! 🌈💖
Today we’ve got another important but way underdiscussed sapphic topic to talk about… STIs and prevention. Buckle up for some real talk about keeping our sexual health in check!
First things first: yes, STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) can and do happen in sapphic relationships. We might not have the same risks as straight couples, but we're not immune. Here's what you need to know:
Common STIs in Sapphic Relationships:
Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)
Yeast Infections
Herpes
HPV (Human Papillomavirus)
Trichomoniasis
Less common, but still possible:
Chlamydia
Gonorrhea
Syphilis
HIV
How They Spread:
Skin-to-skin contact
Sharing sex toys without proper cleaning
Oral sex
Fingering or fisting with minor cuts on hands
Way to Protect Yourself:
Dental Dams: Your BFF for oral sex. No dam? Cut open a condom - instant DIY dam!
Gloves: Great for fingering, especially with longer nails.
Regular Testing: Knowledge is power, babes!
Open Communication: Talk about sexual health with your partners.
Clean Your Toys: Before and after use, and between partners. Here are some recommendations:
Wash with mild, unscented soap and warm water before and after each use. Rinse thoroughly and air dry.
For non-porous materials like silicone, glass, or stainless steel, you can also use a 10% bleach solution or boil for 3-5 minutes to sanitize.
Avoid harsh chemicals or alcohol-based cleaners which can degrade materials.
For porous materials like rubber or jelly, use soap and water only. Consider using condoms with these toys for better hygiene.
Store toys separately in clean, dry places after cleaning.
Check toys regularly for any signs of damage and replace as needed.
Note that following these cleaning practices not only helps prevent infections… it also helps maintain the longevity of your toys!
PrEP: Not Just for the Gay Boys
Now, let's talk about PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis). You might think it's just for gay men, but listen up:
What is PrEP?
A daily pill that significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission.
It's for HIV-negative folks who might be at risk of exposure.
Why Should Sapphics Care?
Some of us have partners of all genders or partners who have partners of all genders.
Transgender women in our community might benefit.
It's an extra layer of protection for those who use injection drugs.
Getting on PrEP:
Talk to your doctor or visit an LGBTQ+ friendly clinic.
Get tested for HIV and other STIs.
Check your kidney function (PrEP can affect it).
Follow up regularly for monitoring.
Remember: PrEP doesn't protect against other STIs, so it's not a replacement for other safer sex practices!
Myths and Misconceptions:
Let's bust some myths, shall we?
Myth 1: "Lesbians can't get STIs." Reality: Oh honey, we absolutely can.
Myth 2: "PrEP is only for gay men." Reality: It's for anyone at risk of HIV exposure, regardless of gender or sexuality.
Myth 3: "Using protection makes sex less intimate." Reality: Taking care of each other's health is super intimate and caring!
Bringing up STIs and protection doesn't have to be awkward:
Make it part of your sexy talk: "I want to taste you... let's grab a dental dam!"
Frame it as mutual care: "I care about both our health, let's get tested together."
Be matter-of-fact: "Before we go further, let's chat about our sexual health."
Remember, someone who doesn't respect your health concerns isn't worth your time!
Taking Care of You:
Regular Check-ups: Visit your gyno or LGBTQ+ health clinic annually.
Know Your Status: Get tested regularly, especially with new partners.
Educate Yourself: Stay informed about sexual health in our community.
Self-Checks: Get to know your body so you can spot any changes.
The Bottom Line:
Sapphics, we need to look out for each other! Taking care of our sexual health is an act of self-love and community care. Whether you're a gold star lesbian, a bi babe, or anywhere on the queer spectrum, your health matters.
So, let's make safer sex sexy, normalize talking about STIs, and keep our community healthy and thriving! 🌈💖