Myths and Facts: Safer Sex for Lesbian and Bisexual Women

Note: not all women have vulvas, and not all people with vulvas are women.

There's often misinformation around safer sex options for lesbians and bisexual women. While there’s no chance of an unplanned pregnancy between people with vulvas, sex isn’t totally risk-free. Practicing safe sex can prevent the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and related health issues. 

You might be wondering what a vulva is! It’s the outer genitals for people assigned female at birth. It includes all organs outside of the body (click here for a diagram ). Many people usually say ‘vagina’ when referring to this part of the body, but vulva is the correct term for the external anatomy. 
 

STIs, such as herpes (HSV) and human papillomavirus (HPV), can be spread through skin-to-skin contact and vaginal fluids. This can occur through: 

Cross-contamination of fluids and vaginal tears from finger penetration can also occur. These all make it easier for STIs to spread. Using a water-based lubricant, trimming fingernails, and using barrier methods can reduce your risk of infection. HPV is also vaccine-preventable. Getting tested for STIs routinely and knowing your status is an important part of everyone’s sexual health. 
 

Condoms, dental dams, and gloves can keep sex safer and cleaner. They are a great way to reduce your risk of STIs, especially ones spread by skin-to-skin contact. Dental dams are latex sheets that can be placed over a vulva. They serve as a barrier between a vulva and a mouth during oral sex.  
Many don't use dental dams because they don't know they exist, where to get them, or how to use them . Dental dams  work best with lubricant. If the first few times are tricky, don’t give up – practice makes perfect! Non-microwavable plastic wrap  or a condom cut lengthwise in half is a great substitute for a dental dam. 
If you still have sex with men or people with penises, internal and external condoms are a very effective way of preventing pregnancy and STIs. 
 

Birth control  is a good idea for anyone who might engage in sex that could lead to pregnancy. If you only have sex with men or people with penises some of the time, choosing a long-acting contraceptive  (LARC) might be a good idea. LARCs last for years at a time, so they don’t require taking every day or prep ahead of time. Contraceptive gel could also be a good option. There are also lots of non-contraceptive benefits to hormonal birth control, such as period regulation, acne improvement, and more. 
 

Some STIs are spread through vaginal fluids. These can linger on and contaminate sex toys. Wash your toys after each use with soap and water, and use them with condoms when applicable. Silicone toys are at risk of harboring bacteria, as they can become porous if not properly used and cared for. Avoid using silicone-based lubricant with silicone sex toys, because it might cause them to deteriorate. 
No matter your sexuality, it's important to take control of your health. Get tested routinely, talk to partners about their STI statuses, and be open with your medical providers about the kinds of sex you’re having so they offer you the best, most applicable resources.  
 

Planned Parenthood:  This is a nationwide network of health centers that offers affordable sexual reproductive services and resources such as, STI testing, birth control, and free condoms.
Bedsider:  Bedsider is an online birth control support network for women 18-29 operated by Power to Decide, the campaign to prevent unplanned pregnancy.
Title X:  These clinics are federally funded to provide low-to-no cost reproductive health care, including STI testing and contraception.