Abstinence and Other "Safe" Sexual Activities

• There are only two 100% effective means of avoiding STDs:
  • Abstaining from sexual intercourse and from oral sex.
  • A truly monogamous (one sexual partner only) and longstanding relationship between two uninfected partners.
• Sexual behaviors that are considered safe (and do not usually transmit STDs) include holding hands, hugging, touching and kissing (as long as there are no sores on the lips or in the mouth).
• Touching semen during mutual masturbation generally is safe.