How Do Lesbians Get STIs?
Great question, and one we often don’t talk about. When we talk about STI risk we tend to focus on two populations - straight people, and men who have sex with men.
For women engaging solely in sex play with another woman, there is still a risk of STIs. Regardless of orientation, the amount of risk depends on what behaviors a person is engaging in. It also depends on whether or not they’re using any kind of STI protection.
If genitals are being rubbed together, then there is the risk of spreading things like herpes and genital warts. There is also the possibility of spreading any bacterial infections that might be present in vaginal fluid. These include chlamydia, gonorrhea, and bacterial vaginosis (BV).
If the women are engaging in oral sex and not using a barrier like a dental dam, than there can also be STIs passed that way. If you’ve never heard of a dental dam, it’s basically a square of latex. You hold it over the vulva so that there’s a barrier during oral sex. If you don’t have a dental dam, you can always cut open a condom. If you’re allergic or sensitive to latex, make sure you’re using a condom that’s made of something else – either polyurethane or polyisoprene. If you want more information check out the Cleveland Clinic page on dental dams.
Usually, the immediate follow up I get to talking about condoms, is someone asking why they would have condoms handy if they’re a lesbian. In addition to the fact that you can cut it open and use it for oral sex, condoms are a great way to cover sex toys. Sex toys need to be cleaned, and cleaned well, to help prevent the spread of STIs. In addition to cleaning it, some people choose to use a condom on a sex toy to further reduce the chance of spreading STIs. And honestly, external condoms are often way easier for people to get than dental dams.
The other way that STIs can be spread is through hand/finger to genital contact. Make sure to clean your hands before and after sex play. If you see something funky on the genitals or hands (maybe a wound, or something you’re just not sure about) use a latex or polyisoprene glove. It may not seem sexy, but it’s a great option for preventing STIs.
Regardless of your gender/orientation I would encourage you to talk to your partner(s) about current STI status. You should also talk how to protect each other during sex play. And get tested for STIs if you haven’t done so recently or are having any signs/symptoms of an STI.
If you identify as a lesbian, keep in mind that some doctors will not always recommend STI screenings. (Please someone ask me about this so I can do a post on it!). Regardless, you can always opt to get tested even if your doctor isn’t recommending it. If you want more information on where to go for STI testing check out this post
Until next time, stay safe and have fun!
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