{"id":40495,"date":"2023-06-02T23:29:53","date_gmt":"2023-06-02T21:29:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.lelo.com\/blog\/?p=40495"},"modified":"2024-10-30T05:13:30","modified_gmt":"2024-10-30T04:13:30","slug":"what-is-high-risk-sexual-behavior","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.lelo.com\/blog\/what-is-high-risk-sexual-behavior\/","title":{"rendered":"What Is High-Risk Sexual Behavior?"},"content":{"rendered":"

Sex is a beautiful part of most people\u2019s lives and relationships. Unfortunately, it also comes with its own difficulties and details to navigate. Certain sexual behaviors and habits are inherently risky, that\u2019s a part of life.<\/span><\/p>\n

Understanding these potential risks, why people engage in them, and how to avoid them is an important step in normalizing conversations about sexual wellness. It\u2019s also a vital step in caring for your sexual health and overall wellbeing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Defining High-Risk Sexual Behavior<\/b><\/h2>\n

The International Society for The Study of Sexual Medicine<\/span><\/a> defines high risk sexual behavior as any sexual behavior that puts a person at an increased risk of spreading or getting a sexually transmitted infection (STI). High risk sexual behavior also includes anything that can cause excessive (unwanted) bodily or emotional harm.<\/span><\/p>\n

We need to point out that this definition in no way is meant to shame people who engage in consensual kink or BDSM. This is a normal expression of their sexual behavior, and is not considered high-risk when done consensually.<\/span><\/p>\n

These are the different types of high-risk sexual behavior:<\/b><\/p>\n

Substance Abuse<\/b><\/h3>\n

It\u2019s not uncommon to engage in sexual behavior while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. That being said, it can impair someone\u2019s decision making abilities and lower their inhibitions, leading them to do things they may not otherwise do.<\/span><\/p>\n

Substances can also impact someone\u2019s ability to give informed consent or do something like have sex without a condom. Drugs and alcohol also have their own risks outside of sexual behavior.<\/span><\/p>\n

We\u2019re not saying not to ever engage in sexual behavior while under the influence, but to make sure you and any partners involved know and accept the risk before ingesting any substances.<\/p>\n

Kink Risks<\/b><\/h3>\n

BDSM and kink<\/span><\/a> are a beautiful way for people to explore pleasure, pain, and deeper intimate experiences. When done in an educated and consensual manner, of course. Potential risks from kink include emotional damage in a dom\/sub situation or nerve and bone damage from ropes or ties.<\/span><\/p>\n

If you do engage in kink, you need to be aware of the potential risks and how to avoid them. That\u2019s where the acronym RACK comes into play.<\/span><\/p>\n