Dear Di,
I’m a very sexual person, but at the same time I’m constantly worried about getting pregnant or contracting an STI. What are some measures that can be taken to guarantee my safety, as well as the safety of my partner?
–Sexual Safety
Dear SS,
While exploring your sexuality with a consenting partner is a vital part of your coming-of-age, you still have to take steps to ensure that all parties involved are protected from unwanted harm. Asking this question is a great step in that direction!
First of all, it’s vital for people that are sexually active to get tested regularly for sexually transmitted infections (STI). This can be especially critical if you are with a new sex partner, if you notice any symptoms that are unusual, or if you discover that a past sexual partner had an STI and did not disclose that fact.
Some STIs like herpes, syphilis, gonorrhoea, and chlamydia can even be passed through fellatio and cunnilingus, which means you can lessen this risk by using condoms during oral sex too.
Additionally, remember your first sex-ed class? While it may have been a drawn out and awkward affair, there’s still one universal truth that holds: there is no way to get pregnant if your private parts aren’t touching.
In this light, don’t forget about classic activities that don’t require the touching of genitals like hand jobs, fingering, dry humping, and phone sex.
Nowadays, you can even utilize webcams for some online fun, although you should be aware that this carries other risks with it such as your partner recording your session without your consent.
So, to answer your question, there are always alternatives for safe sex besides wearing condoms. Be diligent, get tested for STIs, use a condom for oral sex, or make a raunchy phone call. Any of the above will help you satisfy your sexual craving while maintaining your peace of mind.
Love,
Di
Dear Di,
Whenever my boyfriend finishes on my face, it’s almost never a good time. His jizz burns my eyes, bothers my skin, and it tastes very unpleasant. Is this just the way it is?
–Juggling Jizz
Dear JJ,
Well, the good news is that it’s not just you. Ejaculate can taste different from person-to-person, with some tasting flavourless and others making you cringe.
Some health experts even say that a man’s diet will affect the taste of his semen. For example, asparagus may lead to a bad taste, while pineapple can form a sweet one.
There are also many ingredients contained in semen like magnesium, potassium, sodium, and zinc. If you already have plenty of those in your body, then the taste will be stronger.
When it comes to the stinging in your eyes, the chemical found in human semen, known as spermine, has been known to cause negative reactions when it gets into contact with your skin.
You may even have a sperm allergy, which is rare but can cause swelling and itching nonetheless. If it doesn’t feel right, talk to your partner and try to figure out a better way to “finish” that will make both of you happy.
Love,
Di
