Safer Sex for Heterosexual People: Keep it Hot, Keep it Safe!

 

Sex is meant to be fun, intimate, and—let's face it—a little bit sweaty. But what’s even hotter? Keeping yourself safe while you’re getting down and dirty. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned professional, there’s always something new to learn about safer sex. So, let's dive into the essentials with a flirty twist.

 

1. Get Tested: Don’t Guess, Know!

Before you start swiping right or making late-night calls, do yourself (and your future partners) a favor and get tested. STI testing is like the VIP pass to confident sex. You wouldn't let someone into an exclusive party without checking their credentials, right? Same applies here.

• How often?: Every 3-6 months or when you switch partners. It’s like getting your oil changed—but, you know, sexier.
• Where?: Clinics, doctor's offices, or discreet at-home testing kits.

You wouldn't drive without knowing you’ve got a full tank of gas. So don’t risk it. Know your status, and you’ll be cruising in the safe lane.

 

2. Condoms: The Real MVP

If condoms had a trophy case, it’d be full. Condoms are your go-to for protection against both STIs and pregnancy, making them the ultimate multitaskers of the bedroom. And with all the varieties (ribbed, flavored, extra-thin), you can turn safe sex into an adventure.

Pro Tips:

• Expiration date check: Old condoms = no bueno.
• Fit matters: Too small and it’ll break; too big, and it might slip off. Like Goldilocks said, "just right" is key.
• Lube it up: Make that slip and slide smooth with some water- or silicone-based lube. But keep oil-based lubes (like coconut oil and even The Butters Oil-based Lubes) far from latex condoms unless you want to roll the dice.

 

3. The Birth Control Lineup: Pick Your Player (or Skip the Game Entirely)

Birth control is like an all-you-can-eat buffet: different options for different tastes, but here’s a wildcard that doesn’t get enough credit—avoiding vaginal sex altogether. That’s right. No pregnancy worries, no birth control pills, and no condom mishaps. By focusing on oral, anal, or mutual masturbation, you eliminate the risk of pregnancy altogether. It’s the ultimate plot twist in the birth control saga.

Here’s why this method deserves a gold star in gender equality:

• Reproductive rights are still a hot topic, and let’s face it: men’s legal rights when it comes to fatherhood end at conception. While women have the added burden (and risk) of carrying the pregnancy itself, men often have fewer choices once that line on the pregnancy test appears.
• If you and your partner want to level the playing field, avoiding vaginal sex entirely can put both partners on equal footing when it comes to preventing pregnancy. With no risk of pregnancy, you can both enjoy sex without the power imbalance that often accompanies reproductive choices.

But if vaginal sex is on the table, here’s a quick rundown of your traditional birth control options:

• The Pill: Great for those who thrive on routine, but not ideal for forgetful folks.
• IUDs: Set it and forget it for years of baby-free fun.
• The Patch/Ring/Shot: Perfect for those who love autopilot birth control.
• Fertility Awareness: Works best for planners (and not great for those spur-of-the-moment hookups).

Bottom line: Avoiding vaginal sex doesn’t just protect you from pregnancy—it’s an equalizer in a world where reproductive rights and risks are often tilted. And if you do decide to have vaginal sex, doubling up with condoms and other methods is always a smart move!

 

4. Oral Sex: Don’t Let Your Guard Down (and Keep it Clean)

Let’s be real—oral sex is often the underrated star of safer sex. But just because there’s no penetration doesn’t mean you’re out of the STI woods. STIs like herpes, gonorrhea, and HPV can still hitch a ride during oral. That’s why it’s important to use protection—and not just for peace of mind but for a better, safer experience. Grab flavored condoms for blow jobs, or dental dams for cunnilingus. Plus, if you’ve ever tried The Butters' Toy & Surface Sanitizer, you already know it’s not just for toys!

Here’s the pro tip: The Butters Toy & Surface Sanitizer isn’t just for cleaning your vibrators or sheets; it can be used on your skin too. That’s right! This gentle cleaner is formulated with hypochlorous acid (HOCl), which sounds all science-y, but let me break it down.

Hypochlorous acid is a naturally occurring substance produced by our white blood cells to fight off infections—basically, your body’s very own ninja. It’s highly effective at killing bacteria and viruses, but here’s the kicker: it’s completely safe for skin contact! Unlike harsh alcohol-based sanitizers that dry out your skin or leave a sticky residue, hypochlorous acid is gentle, non-irritating, and leaves no film behind.

Whether you’re prepping for oral sex or giving a quick spritz before using your favorite toy, it keeps everything fresh, clean, and ready for action. Bonus: it’s eco-friendly and non-toxic, so you’re protecting your health and the planet at the same time. With all that good hygiene, you can dive into your oral escapades feeling extra confident and clean.

So go ahead and make The Butters Toy & Surface Sanitizer your bedroom (or wherever) BFF, because keeping things squeaky clean doesn’t just show respect for your partner—it keeps the fun rolling without a hitch.

 

 

5. Lube Is Your Best Friend

Not all bodies produce enough natural lubrication, and there’s no shame in bringing in some extra slickness to the party. It’ll make everything smoother (literally) and reduce the chance of tears, which can lead to STIs.

• Water-based: Perfect for any scenario. Have you tried our water-based lube?
• Silicone-based: Stays slippery longer—ideal for marathon sessions or shower sex.
• Oil-based: Save this one for non-latex condom fun only!

 

6. Consent: It's Sexy AF

Here’s the golden rule: consent isn’t optional; it’s mandatory. Make sure that everyone is fully on board and clear about what's happening. Communication isn’t a mood-killer—it’s a mood-setter. Ask, listen, and respect boundaries. If something’s off, it's better to stop than to push forward.

• And remember: Consent isn’t a one-time thing. Check in with your partner during sex. “Are you into this?” is the new “you good?”

 

7. Aftercare Isn’t Just for the Kinky

Aftercare? Yes, please! It's not just for rope experts and BDSM pros—it's for everyone. Post-sex cuddles, talking about the experience, or even a well-placed snack (fruit, anyone?) can turn a good time into a great connection. Plus, always pee after sex to avoid UTIs. Trust us, it’s the least sexy thing you’ll have to Google at 3 a.m.

 

8. Shut Down the Myths: Let’s Get Real

There’s a lot of misinformation floating around when it comes to sex, and let’s be honest—sex ed in high school didn’t exactly cover everything, did it? So let’s debunk a few persistent myths that could be lurking in your mind (or your friends’ group chat) and keep things 100% real.

 

Myth #1: You Can’t Get Pregnant if You Pull Out Before Ejaculation

Sorry to break it to you, but pre-cum is a sneaky little devil. Even though it doesn’t pack as many sperm as full ejaculation, pre-cum can still carry enough to get someone pregnant. So, while pulling out might reduce the risk of pregnancy, it’s far from foolproof. Think of it like trying to stop a water balloon from bursting mid-throw—it might work, but there’s a high chance you’ll still end up with a mess.

 

Myth #2: You Can’t Get an STI from Oral Sex

Oral sex may feel like a safer option, but it’s not without its risks. You can still contract STIs like herpes, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and HPV through oral contact. So just because you’re not going “all the way” doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. Luckily, flavored condoms and dental dams make protection easy—and sometimes tastier. It's like putting a protective cover on your favorite snack: you still get the deliciousness without the risk of a surprise infection.

 

Myth #3: If It’s Your First Time, You Won’t Get Pregnant

Nope. Just...no. There’s no magical first-time immunity. Pregnancy is a possibility from any vaginal sex where sperm comes into contact with an egg. Whether it’s your first time or your 101st, protection is always a must unless you’re actively trying to conceive.

 

Myth #4: You Can Get an STI from a Toilet Seat

This one needs to be tossed in the trash where it belongs. You can’t get an STI from sitting on a public toilet seat. STIs are transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, fluids, or blood, not through a quick trip to the restroom. The real public health hazard is probably that questionable gas station sandwich, not the toilet seat.

 

Myth #5: Birth Control Makes You Gain a Ton of Weight

While some forms of hormonal birth control might cause slight weight fluctuations, the idea that you’ll suddenly gain 20 pounds is overblown. Everyone’s body responds differently to hormones, but studies show that most women don’t experience significant weight gain on birth control. If you're worried, talk to your doctor about finding an option that works for you.

 

Myth #6: You Have to Orgasm for Pregnancy to Happen

Contrary to popular belief, pleasure isn’t required for pregnancy. Ovulation and sperm don’t care if it was the best night of your life or if it was an awkward quickie. If sperm meets egg, pregnancy can happen—orgasm or not.

 

Myth #7: You Can’t Get Pregnant During Your Period

While it’s less likely, it’s still possible to get pregnant during your period. Sperm can live inside the body for up to five days, so if you have a shorter cycle or ovulate early, there’s a chance sperm from period sex could stick around long enough to fertilize an egg. Better safe than sorry—use protection no matter what time of the month it is.

 

Myth #8: Douching After Sex Prevents Pregnancy or STIs

Douching doesn’t prevent pregnancy or STIs, and it can actually throw off your body’s natural pH balance, increasing your risk for infections. The vagina is self-cleaning, so there’s no need to hit it with a perfume parade. If you want to freshen up after sex, stick to mild soap and water on the outside only.

 

Myth #9: You Can Only Get HPV if You’re Promiscuous

HPV is one of the most common STIs, and it doesn’t care if you’ve had one partner or one hundred. Most people will contract it at some point in their life because it’s spread through skin-to-skin contact. The best defense? Getting vaccinated against HPV and using condoms consistently. And no judgment here—everyone’s sexual history is their own business.

 

 

9. Be a (Sexy) Student for Life

Sexual health is an ever-evolving game. New contraceptives, STI prevention methods, and toys are always coming out. Stay informed, stay curious, and always vet your sources. Trusted sites like Planned Parenthood, the CDC, and sexual health clinics are your best bet for accurate info.

 

The Hot Takeaway:

Safer sex is all about confidence, communication, and—let’s not forget—pleasure. When you’ve got the knowledge, the right tools, and mutual respect, you can focus on what matters: enjoying each other. So, grab those condoms, get tested regularly, and communicate clearly. The sexier you feel, the better it’s going to be—and the safer too.