References UK clinical guidance from the NHS, the British HIV Association (BHIVA), and the British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH). Last updated: April 2026.
You can dramatically reduce your risk of catching an STI by combining several strategies — condoms, regular testing, vaccination, PrEP for HIV, and open communication with partners. No single method is 100%, but using a combination gives you strong protection. Here’s a practical guide.
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The Main Tools for Safer Sex
| Tool | Protects Against | How to Use |
|---|---|---|
| External (male) condoms | HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis, and more | Every time, correctly |
| Internal (female) condoms | Same as external condoms | Inserted before sex |
| Dental dams | STIs during oral sex | For cunnilingus and rimming |
| PrEP | HIV (over 99%) | Daily or on-demand (for MSM) |
| HPV vaccine | HPV and related cancers | Routine in school; catch-up available |
| Hepatitis B vaccine | Hepatitis B | Course of 2-3 doses |
| Regular STI testing | Catches and treats infections early | Every 3-12 months based on risk |
| DoxyPEP (where available) | Bacterial STIs (for MSM) | 200mg within 24-72 hours after sex |
Condoms Are Still Central
Used correctly every time, condoms prevent most STIs. Tips for maximum effectiveness:
- Use from start to finish
- Use plenty of water or silicone-based lubricant
- Never use oil-based lube with latex condoms
- Check expiry dates
- Don’t reuse
Consider Risk by Activity
- Oral sex — lower HIV risk; chlamydia, gonorrhoea and syphilis can all spread this way
- Vaginal sex — moderate HIV and STI risk; condoms highly effective
- Anal sex — highest HIV risk; extra lubrication important
- Fingering and mutual masturbation — very low risk unless cuts present
- Sharing sex toys — use condoms on toys shared between partners
PrEP: HIV-Specific Protection
If you’re at higher risk of HIV, PrEP reduces the risk by over 99% when taken as prescribed. It’s free on the NHS through sexual health clinics. PrEP doesn’t cover other STIs, so combine it with condoms or regular screening.
Vaccination
- HPV — routine in UK schools; available free for MSM up to 45
- Hepatitis B — routine in childhood schedule; free for higher-risk adults
- Hepatitis A — recommended for some groups including MSM
- Mpox — available for those at higher risk
Regular Testing
Many STIs are silent. Testing catches them early before complications develop and prevents onward transmission. Recommended frequency:
- Sexually active under 25 — annually for chlamydia
- New partner — test after a few weeks
- Multiple partners — every 3-6 months
- MSM — every 3 months at higher risk
Communication
Honest conversations about sexual health matter. Topics to consider:
- Recent testing
- HIV status and U=U
- PrEP use
- Any STI symptoms
- Agreed protection strategies
Read more: Condoms and HIV | PrEP | DoxyPEP
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a way to have completely safe sex?
No method is 100%, but combining condoms, PrEP, vaccination and regular testing reduces risk to very low levels. Abstinence is the only zero-risk option.
Do I need to test if I always use condoms?
Yes. Condoms don’t cover all STIs (herpes and HPV can spread through skin contact), and accidents happen. Regular testing is still recommended.
Does PrEP replace condoms?
No. PrEP only protects against HIV. Condoms protect against other STIs, so many people use both.
Related reading
- A to Z of Sex: Sexual Health Terms Explained
- Alcohol and HIV: What You Need to Know
- Anxiety and HIV: Coping and Getting Support
- Are All STIs Curable?
- Blood Problems and HIV: Anaemia, Low Platelets and More
Sources
- NHS — Sexual health conditions
- BASHH — UK clinical guidelines for STI management
- British HIV Association (BHIVA) — HIV treatment guidelines
- Terrence Higgins Trust — sexual health information
- UK Health Security Agency — STI surveillance data
Steve Page is a recognised expert on Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and STD treatments, having published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals and presented his research at conferences around the world. He has an in-depth understanding of the latest medical research on STDs, and is an advocate for the development of new treatments and protocols to improve the health of those affected. In addition to his research, he has dedicated his career to understanding the causes and symptoms of STDs, as well as how to best treat those impacted.
