Generally speaking, an erotic power exchange scene is not more dangerous than any other form of sex, provided you take sufficient precautions. Safe sex is a must, and not only from an HIV point of view.
This may sound silly, but if you have never bought condoms before, please avoid the vending machines in discotheques, bars, etc. The problem is that you never know how old the condoms are when you buy them. A condom with an expired maximum vending date is unsafe to use, because the latex deteriorates over time.
Do use condoms when penetrating with vibrators, dildos or other toys. When in scene, it is very possible your toys will lay about and attract dust and germs. Using condoms on your toys will keep them in a better condition as well and makes them easier to clean afterwards.
Some people have allergic reactions to the lubricant that is standard on most condoms. If you are not sure, buy non-lubricated condoms with a separate, water-based lubricant.
HIV Risks
All the general stuff about HIV infection (direct blood and sperm contact) of course goes for erotic power exchange as well. Take extra precautions when you are whipping and (accidentally) draw blood or when you are into needle play or cutting. Nipple clamps sometimes may cause bleeding of the nipples, women may experience this more while having a period. Intense stimulation of the nipples - clamps, binding and piercing(!!) - may incidentally cause a woman's nipple to lactate slightly. Even some men will start to produce small amounts of lactate. Lactate may very well contain the HIV virus.
Extra precautions should, of course, be taken if you are into some edge play situations.
Other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Alternative sexual games open new possibilities for STD infection. Most of these are caused by viruses and are easy to catch if you allow them to enter a body opening (sex organ, mouth or small wound). We will give some short descriptions here:
Virus Infections
Bacteria
We've mentioned only the most common STDs here, there are a lot more around. When in doubt, always check with your doctor. You may be embarrassed about it. This is only natural and the doctor will understand this. Remember, it may the first time you are confronted with STDs, but the doctor has seen it all before. Not seeing the doctor in almost all cases leads to trouble. Most of the STDs will not go away by themselves and some are nasty and persistent.
Be aware that some bdsm techniques can
also be responsible for transmitting STDs
First Aid Kit
This entire safe sex section may scare you a bit. There's no need for that, but it's always advisable to be aware of possible risks and to take precautions when necessary. This goes for having a first aid kit around as well. Mishaps always occur. Most any general first aid kit will do, with two extras: first of all a pair of bandage scissors. These will enable you to quickly and safely cut ropes and even leather straps when you need to. Bandage scissors are designed to avoid harming your partner unintentionally. Next to this it's handy to have freeze spray (or cold spray) around for muscle treatment (makes a wonderful toy as well).
Note: we'll be adding a complete page on "S&M First Aid Kits" soon - look for it on the index page or join the newsletter list and never miss any of our new feature pages.
...safety guides continue over several pages, see menu for more...
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