Balls Deep & Carefree: Guide to Staying STI-Safe

Balls Deep & Carefree: Guide to Staying STI-Safe

Whether you’re fucking one-on-one, diving into wild group scenes, or pushing your kink limits, pleasure and safety are your power couple. Sex feels hotter, freer, and way more badass when you know you’re protected - and that means getting real about how to keep STIs away.

This blog is your no-BS guide to STI prevention made for gay men who play hard and play smart. Apart from the classics (condoms, lube, testing), we are also talking about PrEP (oral and new exciting injectables) as well as Doxy-PEP (more info below!). Keep your peace of mind so you can focus on what really matters - pure, unfiltered pleasure.



Why STI Prevention Is So Important in the Gay Community

Statistically, men who have sex with men (MSM) face higher risks of STIs, including Gonorrhoea, Chlamydia, Syphilis, Hepatitis (A, B, and C), and HIV.

Why? Receptive anal sex carries a higher biological risk of transmission due to the thinness of rectal tissue and how easily it can tear. But that doesn’t mean you have to panic - you just need to be informed, proactive, and prepared.



1. Use Condoms — They Still Work

Condoms are a classic for a reason. They're highly effective at preventing HIV, gonorrhoea, and chlamydia. For anal sex, using a condom with plenty of lubricant drastically reduces the chance of transmission. When using condoms, use water-based or silicone-based lube - oil-based lube can break latex. Keep them stored in a cool, dry place - not your wallet or hot car.

 

2. Lube = Less Friction, More Protection

Lubrication reduces microtears, which means less risk of STI transmission during anal or toy play. It also makes sex feel better - a win-win.

Types:

  • Water-based lube is safe with all condoms and toys.
  • Silicone-based lube lasts longer and is better for water play (under the shower etc.), however, not compatible with some toys.
  • Hybrid lubes give the best of both worlds.

3. Clean Your Toys Right

Sharing toys (especially dildos, plugs, and prostate massagers) without cleaning or protection can spread STIs.

Toy safety tips:

  • Always wash your toys after each use - preferably with a dedicated toy cleaner.
  • If sharing, use a fresh condom on the toy for each person.
  • Don’t forget to clean straps, harnesses, and douching kits too.

4. Get Tested Regularly

Routine STI testing is one of the most responsible and empowering things you can do. Many STIs don’t show symptoms, so testing is the only way to know your status. Generally, you should test every 3 months e.g., if you have multiple partners and more frequently if you’ve had unprotected sex or symptoms.

Full panel testing should include throat, rectal, and urine tests.


🌐 Free or low-cost tests?
                Europe: https://www.testfinder.info/
                USA: https://gettested.cdc.gov/
                More links coming soon!

 


 

5. PrEP Is a Game-Changer - And Now There Are Options

PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) is medication taken to prevent HIV, and it’s been a revolutionary tool for gay men worldwide. It doesn’t protect against other STIs, but it removes HIV anxiety from the bedroom - which changes everything.

Oral PrEP (Daily Pill)

Commonly tenofovir disoproxil fumarate + emtricitabine (TDF/FTC), known by brand names like Truvada or various generic versions.

  • Availability:




    No matter where you live, options are growing - and your sexual health matters just as much as anywhere else. If PrEP isn't widely available yet in your area, advocacy and global health efforts are working hard to change that.

    Check out Global info about PrEP: https://www.prepwatch.org/
    and the Global PrEP tracker: https://data.prepwatch.org/


    New: Injectable PrEP Options

    • Apretude (cabotegravir)
      • Injection every 2 months
      • Approved in the US, UK, EU, Australia, South Africa
      • Must test negative for HIV before each injection

        Real-world use has started, however, it is very limited. 

    • Yeztugo (lenacapavir)
      • Injection every 6 months
      • Approved by the FDA (USA) in June 2025 for PrEP use
      • Expected to roll out in Europe, Canada, and Australia in late 2025–2026
      • Currently in early adoption, mostly through pilot programs or clinical settings

        Not yet widely available; ask your clinic about waitlists or trial access.

    Talk to your local sexual health clinic to find out your options. 


    6. New on the Radar: Doxy-PEP for Bacterial STIs

    What Is Doxy-PEP?

    Doxy-PEP stands for Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. It’s a 200mg dose of doxycycline (an antibiotic) taken within 72 hours after condomless sex. Research shows it can dramatically reduce your risk of:


    It does not prevent HIV or viral STIs like herpes or hepatitis. Think of it as a backup layer of protection, not a replacement for testing or condoms.

    Doxy-PEP is generally recommended for gay, bi, and other men who have sex with men, trans women, and people with frequent condomless sex and/or recurrent bacterial STIs. Some clinics offer it based on your risk profile, while others may require you to be part of a trial or pilot program.


    Where is It Available?

    • USA: Official CDC guidelines now support Doxy-PEP for MSM and trans women at risk - availability varies by clinic, but it’s becoming more common.
    • UK: Not yet part of NHS standard care, but offered privately in some sexual health clinics and pharmacies.
    • EU & Australia: Pilot studies and slow rollout in some urban centres.
    • Elsewhere: Access is highly variable. Some people use prescribed or off-label doxycycline via informed discussions with their doctor.

    Ask your sexual health clinic if they're offering it or planning a rollout soon.

    More info: CDC Doxy-PEP Guidelines


    Risks & Considerations

    • Possible side effects: upset stomach, sun sensitivity
    • Long-term use raises concerns about antibiotic resistance - this is being closely monitored
    • Not recommended for everyone - discuss with a knowledgeable provider before starting

    Bottom line: Doxy-PEP could be a game-changer for STI prevention if used responsibly and with medical guidance. It’s another tool in the kit for those who play often and want that extra peace of mind.


     

    7. What Doesn’t Prevent STIs

    Let’s bust a few myths. Washing your bits after sex won’t prevent STIs. It is also wrong to assume that only anal needs protection. Oral, rimming, and fingering can transmit infections too.

    If it’s warm, wet, and involves mucous membranes, there’s some level of risk. Prevention is about preparation, not assumptions.

     

    8. Bonus: Kink and Fetish Play

    Into fisting, toys, leather, rubber, or roleplay? Sexy. But safety rules still apply:

    • Use gloves for anal fingering or fisting. Change between partners.
    • Lube generously for fisting and large toys to prevent tearing.
    • Clean your gear - especially anything going inside you.
    • Keep nails trimmed and filed if you're using fingers.

    Make STI Prevention Part of the Fun

    Safe sex doesn’t mean boring sex. In fact, being proactive about health can enhance trust, turn-ons, and connection. Imagine a hookup where you both know you’re tested, prepped, lubed, and ready. That’s not just responsible - it’s hot.

    Let your gear and your habits reflect the respect you have for yourself and your partners.


    Final Word

    STI prevention isn’t about fear - it’s about freedom. The freedom to enjoy sex fully, confidently, and safely. Whether you’re flying solo, partnered, or in open play, these habits and tools keep you protected while letting you explore.

    Knowledge is sexy. Prevention is powerful. And preparation? That’s pure confidence.

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