Acknowledging the prevalence of STIs in all classes and communities using effective prevention methods requires a major change of our social attitudes and taboos about sex. Our culture tells us that sex is shameful, and having or seeking to prevent an STI identifies you as a sexually active person, which is shameful. Risk management is the concept behind safer sex. Safe sex is the elimination of risk of contracting or spreading HIV or other STIs through the use of latex barriers everytime you have sex. Many people, however, are unable or unwilling to practice safe sex.
Safer sex is the reduction of risk and is possible for most people to practice.
It isn't who you have sex with, but what sexual activities you engage in that separates risky behavior from safe behavior. Everyone, including HIV positive people, can have fabulous safer sex. Everyone is a sexual being, and that doesn't stop if you become ill, disabled, or acquire an STI . Activities in the unsafe category generally involve semen or blood coming into direct contact with mucous membranes in the rectum, vagina, or mouth or an open sore or wound. Possible unsafe activities are less likely to transmit the virus.