Lesbians can’t catch STIs… right?

Morven Loh lesbians, sexual health, sexual intimacy, STIs

Wrong! Lesbians can most definitely get STIs, so it’s important we stay clued up

One of the most common myths surrounding lesbian sex is that you can’t catch sexually transmitted infections – or STIs for short. If only this were true! If you are a sexually active person, then you can catch an STI. This is regardless of your gender identity or sexual orientation (if only the world was this inclusive.)

You can get an STI in lots of different ways, just like there are lots of different ways to have sex. In short, lesbians can still get and pass on STIs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, genital warts, genital herpes, HIV and pubic lice.

Here are some handy tips for staying safe against STIs

✅ Always get tested before and after meeting a new sexual partner. Some STIs can take up to a month for symptoms to fully show and some are symptomless, so don’t leave it to chance.

✅ Keep your sex toys clean. This means cleaning them after every use, including between you and your sexual partner. Putting condoms on sex toys and using clean ones between you and partners can be an easy way to do this.

✅ Use dental dams if you haven’t tested before or if you/your partner have any cuts or sores in your mouth/lips. Dental dams are little thin and soft plastic squares that act as a barrier. They cover the vaginal opening and anus so you can enjoy safe (but still fun and pleasurable!) oral sex.

✅ Use a new condom or dental dam when swapping between different types of sex, for example vaginal sex to oral sex.

✅ Always wash your hands before and after, and keep your fingernails clipped and clean.

Being savvy

You can absolutely keep you and your partner safe, while still enjoying yourselves. You just need to be savvy about sex! If you’re concerned at all, or think you have an STI, don’t ignore your feelings. Get yourself checked out at your local sexual health clinic. It’s very understandable to feel a bit awkward or uncomfortable about going to a sexual health clinic, especially if it’s your first time, but try to remember that this is all normal for the healthcare professionals working at the clinic. They talk to people about their sexual health all the time. They’re just interested in getting you the right test or treatment. Depending on where you are, you might be able to order a home test kit.