The purpose of practicing safe sex is so that you take proper precautions, when participating in sexual relationships, that decrease the potential for transmitting or acquiring sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).

Some specific examples of safer sex behaviors can be that of abstinence. This is an absolute answer to preventing STDs, although it is not always practical or desirable. A monogamous sexual relationship with an individual known to be free of any STD is probably the least risky approach that sexually active people can take. Know your partner. Before having sex with a new partner, it is prudent for each potential sexual partner to be screened for the presence of STDs, especially HIV and Hepatitis B, and share the results of such evaluations with one another.

The use of condoms, both male and female types, markedly decrease the likelihood of contracting a sexually transmitted disease but condoms must be used properly. The condom should be in place from the beginning to end of sexual activity and should be used EVERY time an individual engages in sexual activity with a non-monogamous partner or other suspect partner.