Fingering can be one of the intimate and pleasant types of sexual intercourse. Like any sexual contacts, it is worth considering hygiene, comfort and protection.Talking about safe sex, we usually think of condoms and other tools which are used for penetrative sexual intercourse. Fingering rarely becomes the topic of conversation even though fingers may get into contact with genital tissues, bodily fluids and sensitive skin.However, the good news is that basic fingering safety does not have to be overly complicated: clean hands, properly treated nails, enough lubrication, communication and protection will make the process more comfortable.Finger condoms can also help if you want to have an additional barrier while performing manual stimulation.This guide will show you the main tips concerning fingering hygiene and safety and answer the following questions: can fingering spread infections, how to prepare your hands for sexual contacts, when to use finger condoms, how the lubrication influences the comfort and what should you do when switching activities.
What Is Fingering?
Fingering refers to stimulation of a partner's genitals or anus with fingers.Dependent on the type of activity fingers may touch vulva, clitoris, vagina entrance, vagina, anus and nearby skin.Since the hands are involved in the process, their hygiene and nail care will make a significant difference.Fingering safety is aimed at avoiding unnecessary problems like scratches, irritation, bacterial transmission and any unwanted exposure.
Why Does Fingering Hygiene Matter?
We often touch various surfaces during the day.Handle of the door, phone, keyboard, money, food and many other objects may transmit microorganisms to our hands. Even though hands look clean, microorganisms can still be present in the fingertips and underneath the fingernails.That is why it is important to wash your hands before engaging in any intimate activity.Fingernails need special attention because they can contain bacteria and dirt. Moreover, long and sharp nails can hurt delicate genital tissue.Thus, good fingering hygiene starts before any sexual activity.
Wash Your Hands Before Fingering
It does not have to be complicated but the first thing which you should do is to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water.Take care to wash the fingertips, the spaces between the fingers and the nails.Dry your hands before intimate contact.Although it is handy to use hand sanitizer in case you have no access to soap and water, it is better to wash your hands with soap and water if it is possible.If you have been touching something which can irritate sensitive skin, e.g., harsh chemicals, then make sure your hands are well-rinsed.
Take Care of Your Fingernails
Fingernails influence both comfort and safety.harp edges can scratch delicate tissue, while long nails can make it harder to take care of hygiene underneath the nails.You do not have to shorten your nails a lot but having smooth edges will be enough.If you often use your fingers for sexual activities, consider keeping your nails clean and free of sharp edges.In addition, pay attention to rings or any other kinds of jewelry: a ring with sharp edge and protruding design can hurt your partner.
Can Fingering Cause Infections?
It is usually considered that fingering is less risky compared with direct contact (genital or anal penetration) for some sexually transmitted infections.However, less risky does not mean riskless. There are certain diseases which can be transmitted with bodily fluids, infected skin, open sores or other types of direct contact.Moreover, the risks may increase if there are any cuts or broken skin on the fingers.That is one of the reasons why some people prefer using a finger condom during manual stimulation.
What If You Have a Cut on Your Finger?
Small cut, hangnail or cracked skin may add an additional element to sexual activity.With broken skin there can be a contact with bodily fluids or irritated tissue.If you have a small cut and still want to engage in sexual activity, using a barrier can provide an additional layer between the wounded area and your partner.However, a finger condom cannot substitute proper treatment of the wound.If the wound is deep, infected, painful or does not heal properly, do not perform sexual activity with that finger and visit a doctor.
What Are Finger Condoms?
Finger condoms are small disposable barriers which cover single fingers.They are also called finger cots or finger sleeves.For sexual health, finger condoms are used for fingering and manual stimulation as an additional barrier.Unlike a glove, finger condoms cover only one finger which is used.That is why it is very convenient to use them if you want targeted protection without covering the whole hand.
When Should You Use a Finger Condom?
There is no universal requirement to use finger condom.Some people feel comfortable using only hand washing and nail hygiene while others prefer to have additional barrier due to a small cut, additional hygiene, usage of fingers for sexual intercourse with a new partner or simply due to increased comfort.Finger condoms can also be helpful when switching between different areas.For instance, if you use a finger condom for anal stimulation and after that you want to have vaginal stimulation, put on a new barrier instead of using the same one.
How to Use a Finger Condom During Fingering
First of all, wash your hands and check your nails.Open the finger condom carefully without using teeth, scissors or other sharp items.Put it on the fingertip and roll down to the base.Make sure that it is fitted tightly but not too tight.If you need more lubrication, apply personal lubricant on the outside of the finger condom.While using it, pay attention to your comfort. In case the finger condom slips or tears, take it off and put another one on.Afterwards, take it off carefully and throw it away.Do not wash and reuse a disposable finger condom.
Does Lubricant Make Fingering Safer?
Lubricant can help make fingering more comfortable due to reduced friction.This becomes particularly relevant in case of long manual stimulation or insufficient natural lubrication.Reduction of friction can also help minimize irritation associated with rubbing.However, lubricant is not a replacement for hygiene or barrier protection.Also, the type of lubricant is a factor that is important if you use a finger condom.Oil-based lubricants may weaken latex finger condoms; water-based lubricants typically work well with latex products. Check the instructions provided by the product manufacturer.
How Much Lubricant to Use?
There is no one-size-fits-all amount of lubricant that is right for everyone.Depending on the activity and individual needs, the amount of lubricant used can vary.Start with a moderate amount of lubricant and add more if needed.If you have noticed friction, additional lubricant will be helpful.Too much lubricant, however, can make a finger condom easier to slip, especially if some lubricant got underneath the barrier.
Fingering and Communication
Safety does not only involve barrier protection.Communication is another critical aspect to keep in mind.Listen to your partner's preferences and feedback before and during sexual activity.Ask if the pressure, movements, pace, and type of stimulation are okay.If something is painful, stop or change the technique.Barrier protection products are also subject to similar consideration. If your partner does not want to use a finger condom, talk about it and find an approach that will be comfortable for both of you.
Fingering and Switching Between Areas
One of the simplest but essential rules of hygiene is as follows:do not switch from anal to vaginal sex without changing the finger condom or washing your hands.Anal cavity is full of bacteria that can lead to issues if moved to the vagina or urinary tract.If you use a finger condom, change it; otherwise, thoroughly wash your hands before moving to another body area.This is a simple measure that can prevent unnecessary bacterial transfer.
Can You Use a Finger Condom for Multiple Fingers?
Finger condoms are made to be used on a single finger.If you want to use another finger, use another finger condom rather than trying to stretch the same product for multiple fingers.If you use several fingers simultaneously and need a barrier protection, perhaps a glove will be more convenient for you.
Latex-Free Finger Condoms for Sensitive Users
Sometimes, users prefer latex-free products either because of having a known latex allergy or because of the wish to avoid natural rubber latex.Latex-free finger condoms are available in many designs.For example, Sappho from Lesbos offers latex-free finger condom alongside other traditional designs.While looking for a latex-free finger condom, remember to check the material list completely. "Latex-free" means that the finger condom is free of natural rubber latex, but people can also be allergic to other materials.
Smooth vs. Textured Finger Condoms
Texture is another personal preference.A smooth finger condom will give you the most basic protection.There are finger condoms with dots, ribs, and other types of texture. Choose the best for you and your needs.For example, Sappho from Lesbos has dotted, ribbed, and other textured finger condoms.If you try finger condoms for the first time, it may be easiest to start with a simple smooth product to get acquainted with the fit and feel.
What if a Finger Condom Slips During Use?
If the finger condom slipped during use, stop and determine the reason.If the barrier is still accessible, remove it carefully and put on a new one.In case the finger condom slipped or broke and became stuck in the vagina or anus, do not try to get rid of it using sharp or forceful objects. Seek appropriate medical assistance.If you had a situation when the barrier slipped or broke during sexual intercourse, consult a specialist if you suspect an exposure.
Menstrual Blood and Barrier Protection
Some people might choose to use extra barrier protection because of their hygienic preferences while having their periods.One of such barrier protections is finger condom, which creates disposable barrier between the finger and menstrual blood.However, menstruation does not necessarily imply that it is risky to perform fingering.All of the basic rules are applicable here clean hands, smooth nails, sufficient lubrication, use of appropriate barrier if wanted, and communication with your partner.If at least one partner has concerns regarding the transmission of blood-borne infections, then it is important to follow necessary safer-sex recommendations and tests.
How to Make Your Fingering More Pleasant
Safety and comfort are often inseparable concepts.Slowly start the activity and communicate while doing it.Make sure that your hands are clean and that your nails are smooth.Apply enough amount of lubricant if needed.When using finger condom, make sure it fits well and does not put uncomfortable pressure on the finger.Avoid actions, which cause pain.If your partner experiences persistent pain, burning sensation, bleeding or other strange discomforts, then you need to stop performing fingering and to think about seeing a doctor.
Common Mistakes in Fingering Safety
Some of the problems arise from mistakes instead of the activity itself.For example, usage of unclean hands is quite obvious mistake.Another example of this type is ignoring sharp fingernails.Also, some people tend to forget to change the barriers when they are going to touch different body areas.Others apply incompatible lubricants with latex barriers or try to reuse disposable barriers.These mistakes are fairly easy to avoid when you are aware of them.
Conclusion
Good fingering safety is all about basic habits.First of all, your hands should be clean and fingernails should be smooth. Second, use enough lubricant to avoid unnecessary friction. Communicate with your partner and stop in case you experience pain.If you want to use additional barrier, finger condom can be a great choice. This type of barrier covers only one finger and allows you to change disposable product after each activity.Be especially careful while switching between anal and vaginal contacts and always use new finger condom when it is needed.Sappho from Lesbos has plenty of styles of finger condoms, including classic style, textured, ribbed and latex-free finger condoms for people who want to incorporate finger barriers in their sexual wellness routine.Goal of safer intimate activity is not to destroy its spontaneity or pleasure.