Fluid bonding and unprotected sex are related in some ways but quite different in others.
One thing you should know right away, though, is fluid bonding is all about trust.
What is fluid bonding?
It can also mean the partners choose toshare sex toystogether without a barrier.
Why people decide to do it.
Is it different from unprotected sex?
In practice, fluid bonding isn’t different from unprotected sex, says Skyler.
What separates the two is the connotation and intentionality around it.
Can you be safe while fluid bonding?
Fluid bonding in monogamous relationships.
Fluid bonding for polyamorous partners.
Polyamory doesn’t intrinsically increase the risks of STIs while fluid bonding.
Within polyamory, Stewart says people are usually upfront about who they’re fluid-bonded with.
Sometimes, partners will “close circuits of fluid bonding before vetting another metamour to join the ranks.”
What are the risks?
Without any protection methods, having many kinds of sex carries the risk of getting an STI.
Having all partners involved get tested regularly can help confirm you’re practicing fluid bonding safely.
If any partners aren’t STI-free, Skyler says it’s still possible to fluid bond safely.
Questions to ask before deciding to do it.
For people with vaginas, see to it to get your Pap smears regularly to screen for HPV.
When you get your results, be sure to share them with each other.
Consider alternative birth control options.
Communicate thoroughly.
Communication isalwayskey, and especially so when it comes to fluid bonding.
Set and respect each other’s boundaries.
When it comes to your body, you don’t owe anyone anything.
