September is Sexual Health Awareness Month, and we’ve noticed that, while there are plenty of resources for gbMSM, there seems to be a significant lack of safe sex guidelines for queer women and other women who have sex with women. For this reason, we’ve compiled a list of tips to ensure a safe, happy and pleasurable September and beyond for all of our sapphic readers.

Safe and pleasurable sexual activity, whether alone or with a consensual partner(s), offers numerous physical and emotional health benefits. Beyond the obvious physical pleasure, sex can strengthen emotional bonds both personably and with your partner(s). It can also enhance libido, improve sleep, boost the immune system, and support heart health.

Regular sexual activity is also known to lower blood pressure and reduce stress levels. However, alongside these benefits, it’s crucial to prioritise safety to protect both yourself and your partner(s) from any potential risks.

Sexual activity, particularly in positions involving close contact, carries the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). While some STIs may present noticeable symptoms, many are asymptomatic or have such subtle symptoms that make it difficult to detect them or take a long time to appear. This is particularly true for women, making regular STI testing essential for maintaining sexual health.

To reduce the risk of infection, it’s advisable to use condoms or dental dams during oral, vaginal, and anal sexual activities. Sex toys of all sorts should also be cleaned thoroughly with warm, soapy water, rinsed, and dried between each use, following the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.

If you choose to engage in sexual activity during menstruation, it’s important to remember that menstrual blood can carry infections. The cervix is slightly more open during this time, which can allow infections to travel more easily to the uterus and fallopian tubes. 

Additionally, excessive friction during sexual activity can lead to small cuts, which may serve as entry points for infection. To reduce this risk, keep nails short and clean and use plenty of lubricant.

In the event of a positive STI test result, follow up with treatment and inform your past partners so they can also get tested. Some clinics offer anonymous partner notification services to maintain privacy.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) funds free, non-judgmental STI testing services at STI/GUM clinics across the country and through partner organisations. Additionally, a free home testing service is available.

Testing at a GP clinic typically incurs a fee unless you have a medical card or are entitled to free visits. Private clinics and online screening services set their own fees based on the tests required.

Queer women and other women who have sex with women can maintain safer sexual practices by getting tested regularly, attending cervical screenings, and using barrier protection during sexual activities when necessary.

However lets not forget the crucial step in ensuring safe sex: communication. Establish your boundaries, your needs and your desires. Ensure you and your partner(s) are comfortable, as it will not only lead to better sexual health but also greater sexual satisfaction!