What is safe sex?

Safer sex refers to all behaviors and protective measures that significantly reduce the risk of contracting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The aim of safer sex is to make sexuality pleasurable and responsible - without endangering your own health or that of your partner.

A central element of safer sex is the use of condoms during anal and vaginal intercourse. Condoms offer very reliable protection against HIV and also reduce the risk of other sexually transmitted infections such as gonorrhea or chlamydia.

In addition to condoms, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) also plays an important role in the modern safer sex concept. PrEP is a preventive HIV medication that reliably protects people with an increased HIV risk. Provided it is taken correctly and medically supervised. PrEP is an effective supplement or alternative to condoms for people with frequently changing sexual contacts.
Another important component of safer sex is the so-called U=U rule ("undetectable = untransmittable"). It states that if an HIV-positive person is undergoing successful treatment and the viral load is permanently below the detection limit, HIV can no longer be transmitted - even during sex without a condom. This is scientifically proven and represents significant progress in destigmatizing HIV.

Regular testing for HIV and other STIs is also part of the safer sex concept, especially if you are sexually active or have changing partners. Many infections progress without symptoms and remain untreated if they are not actively sought out. This is why tests - even without symptoms - are an important contribution to your own and your partner's sexual health.

You can also protect yourself against certain sexually transmitted infections with vaccinations. These include vaccinations against hepatitis A and B and against the human papillomavirus (HPV), which can cause genital warts and cancers, among other things.

The hygienic handling of sex toys, the avoidance of shared needles (e.g. for drug use or piercing) and open communication with sexual partners are also components of comprehensive safer sex behavior.

Safer sex is therefore not a rigid set of rules, but a flexible concept that can be individually adapted - depending on lifestyle, health status, relationship context and risk assessment. It is not about prohibitions, but about making informed decisions and taking responsibility for yourself and others.

The counselor at TEST-IN can discuss a suitable safer sex strategy with you and answer any questions you may have.

You can find more information about safer sex at: https://aids.ch/safer-sex/