Healthier Scotland. Scottish Government

Vaginal Sex

What do we mean by 'vaginal sex'?

Vaginal sex is when a penis enters the vagina, is rubbed against the area around the vaginal entrance or women rub their vaginas together.

What are the risks from vaginal sex?

Vaginal sex presents risks of sexually transmitted infections and of getting pregnant.

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Why is vaginal sex a high-risk activity?

The bacteria, viruses and parasites that cause most sexually transmitted infections (STIs) may be present in the vaginal fluid of an infected woman. In other infections, the bacteria or virus may be present on the skin around the vagina.

If a sexual partner has an STI, it can enter the bloodstream easily if semen or vaginal fluid from the infected person gets inside the vagina.

The skin inside the vagina and around the head of the penis is delicate. This means that infections can pass easily between male or female sexual partners during unprotected vaginal sex. The risks increase during longer sex sessions as the skin of vagina or penis may become damaged.

Visit the clinic to read more about sexually transmitted infections (STIs)

Reducing the risks from vaginal sex

To reduce risks from vaginal sex:

• always use a condom when sex is between a man and a woman
• use lots of condom-safe lubrication
• always use a dam or cut up condom to kiss or lick someone's vagina
• change condoms before switching to oral or anal sex
• use a fresh condom if sharing sex toys
• wash hands thoroughly before touching the face or genitals.

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Safer sex alternatives to anal sex

There are plenty of ways to have safer sex.

Oral sex with a condom or dam and masturbation are all less risky.

Find out more about safer sex alternatives.

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