Out Central

Female Safe Sex

Introduction
There never seems to be much information on lesbian sex and quite a few people do not take lesbian sex seriously. This means that women who have sex with other women don't generally get information that they need to stay sexually healthy. This guide has basic information for you with links to help you on the way to finding out more information. The society will do its best to provide you with as much information as you request.

Virginity
So what is virginity when you sleep with a woman? Some people see it as a controversial issue and other see it as something that really isn't worth the debate. Not one sexual act can define losing virginity and for all people whether they are LGBT virginity is a personal choice and you decide when you feel you have lost it.

Fingering and Fisting
Fingering is basically using the fingers in and around the vagina or the anus to give sexual pleasure.

Fisting from the name sounds pretty scary, and always gets mixed reactions from groups of different people. When you hear the name fisting the first thing that comes to mind is clenching a fist and putting it inside someone and that is basically it. For lesbians it is the making a fist and placing it into the vagina. This can, if done carefully and in the correct way, give a lot of please and can be a very enjoyable experience. It does take time, patience, and it needs to be done slowly and gently. Remember though only do anything you are comfortable with.

When doing either fingering or fisting make sure that you use plenty of lube as this really does help! Make sure your nails are filed down this will reduce the risk of hurting somebody with them. Latexgloves are also advisable because this will reduce the risk of STIs transmissions.

Oral Sex (Cunnilingus)
This is the licking, kissing, sucking of the clitoris, labia or vagina and can sometimes be the only route for a woman to organism. However some women really don't like it at all. It is important to communicate with your partner because something that one woman like another my find totally horrid, by talking and showing what you like you are more likely to find the experiences better.

Remember that oral sex can pass on STIs and therefore it is best to use a dental dam. A dental dam is a small square piece of latex which acts as a barrier to bodily fluids. If you don't have a dental dam non-microwavable cling film or a cut-open condom can be used instead. Remember never use a dental dam more than once and it is a good idea to mark it so you know which side you will be using in-case it slips.

Dildos
Some women love them, others do not it is your choice. One thing to remember is they are not a penis substitute, really to most lesbians they are more a substitute for the finger. You can buy dildos in a range of shapes and sizes, vibrating and none vibrating. A dildo can be used using the hands to place it in or by using a harness.

Cleaning is a very important issue if you are going to use a dildo and there are different ways depending on the type of dildo material, you should always follow the instructions. Never use a dildo in a vagina if it has been used in the anus as it can transmit infections and if you are going to share it make sure you place a condom over it. If you are using a vibrating dildo remember not to get thebatteries wet!

Safe Sex
Lesbians do come under the low-risk category for sex, however lesbians are not immune to them.

Remember when using long or sharp finger nails can be damaging to delicate tissue, and cuts and sores on the hand can also pass infections on.

Touching yourself and then your partner can also pass on everyday bacteria that can risk the health of the vagina.

Oral sex can pass on STIs, bacteria, and viruses especially if there are cuts or sores in or around the mouth. It is recommended that you do not have oral sex or kiss for an hour after brushing your teeth to avoid bleeding from the gums.

If you share a dildo make sure that you place a fresh condom on each time and that the dildo is cleaned after each use. Never use a dildo in the anus and then in the vagina.

Remember there is no such thing as "100% safe sex" all you can do is have "safer sex".

Cervical Screening
A smear test checks for health of the cervix and detects for the possibility of cancerous cells forming. All women between 20 and 64 are offered the test and it is just as important for lesbian or bisexual women to be tested as a heterosexual one. The tests are free on the NHS and should be taken every 3 to 5 years. It is painless and you will get the results quickly. If you had sex at an early age, smoke, use condoms or had several sexual partners will put you more at risk.

Breast Cancer
Breast cancer is usually rare for women under the age of 35, however it is advisable to make sure you check them regularly and familiarise yourself with the normal look and feel of them. If you find a change you should consult your doctor and have a check up. Most cases of change are likely not to be serious but it is important that you make sure.

Links
Lesbian and Gay West Midlands Switchboard - A lesbian's guide to sex

Lesbian Health UK - information for lesbians

FAQ on Lesbian Sex