Homosexuality isn't all about sex. The LGBT community works hard to shatter the stereotype that gays, lesbians, and bisexuals only care about the coital aspects of their sexual identities. Sometimes, however, in our attempts to be seen for more than our sexual desires, we lose sight of the fact that sexual education is important. In public school sex ed classrooms, students are lucky of they learn the details of safe heterosexual sex and the prevention of STDs--avoiding pregnancy seems to be the only concern in most cases. There is pretty much a zero chance of students learning that STD prevention in the gay and lesbian community is just as important as preventing babies.
Every day, there are 7,400 new infections of HIV. Even though we've come a long way since the days of referring to this disease as GRID (Gay-Related Immune Deficiency), and we know that HIV/AIDS is not the "gay plague," it is still a very real danger to the gay community. The spread of other less-lethal sexually-transmitted diseases is a concern, as well. Condoms remain the most importnat and effective tool in safe sex practices. To put it eloquently, wrap it before you tap it. It may seem like a hassle in the heat of the moment, but the long-term benefits far outweigh the short-term annoyances.
Lesbians need to worry about sexual health, as well. Even without genital penetration, the spread of contact-contagent STDs is still possible. Dental dams and condom-covered fingers are useful to women who wish to practice safe sex with one another. Once again, it might sound silly or seem like an inconvenience, but there are several infections that may be spread through oral sex and mutual masturbation, and these may be prevented with proper precautions.
Finally, everyone--regardless of their sexual orientation--should be tested for sexually transmitted diseases on a regular basis: between each sexual partner if not more often. It might not be a bad idea to go with your sexual partner to be tested, just to make sure you are being honest, open, and safe with one another.
I have been in the waiting room with too many friends as they waited for the results of their HIV tests. I have heard too many friends talk about their medication and treatment of chlamydia, gonnorhea, and herpes. Sexually transmitted diseases can be annoying, permanent, and even life-threatening. Know your status, and take appropriate precautions to keep yourself and your partner safe.
For more information on sexual health in the LGBT community, check out these resources:
http://www.gannett.cornell.edu/top10Topics/sexualhealth/diseasePrevention/default.html
http://www.lgbthealth.net/resources1.shtml#3
http://qublgbt.wordpress.com/welfare/sexual-health/
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