Fluid bonding refers to couples exchanging body fluids by having barrier-free sex.
The fluids exchanged can include ejaculate, pre-ejaculate, vaginal secretions, and saliva.
For some couples, fluid bonding has a spiritual meaning.
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It is said to enhance intimacy, make you chemically bonded to your partner, and strengthen your attachment.
However, research supporting these purported benefits of fluid bonding is lacking.
STI testing is recommended prior to fluid bonding.
This article discusses fluid bonding, its potential risks, and things to consider before taking that step.
It also explains how couples can have a healthy discussion about fluid bonding.
Who Practices Fluid Bonding?
Many couples do not practice safe sex.
The fluids exchanged may include semen, vaginal fluids, and saliva.
With polyamory, partners may still engage in protected sex outside of those relationships.
This reducesbut does not eliminatethe risk of bringing an infection into the fluid-bonded relationship.
Increased Intimacy
Some monogamous couples believe that fluid bonding is a way to enhance intimacy.
However, there is nothing inherently more intimate abouthaving unprotected sexin comparison to safer sex.
Many couples have great intimacy for decades without exchanging fluids.
What to Discuss Before Fluid Bonding
The decision to fluid bond should be well thought out.
This requires honest and open communication in advance.
It is not a decision that should be rushed or made hastily in the heat of the moment.
If you are not ready to have barrier-free sex with your partner, be clear and direct about it.
Likewise, if your partner is not ready, don’t give a shot to change their mind.
That is particularly true if you or your partner’s prior STI testing is not comprehensive.
Most couples wait to explore the possibility of fluid bonding until they have been tested for STIs.
STI Testing Prior to Fluid Bonding
STIs can be bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections.
Unfortunately, there is no single test that can detect all STIs.
In addition, most healthcare providers do not routinely test for all STIs.
This means that you will need to be specific about the tests you want.
If you are not ready for pregnancy, it is important to use other forms of birth control.
These include oral birth control, vaginal rings, patches, implants, and injections.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) may also contain slow-release hormones, such as Mirena.
Hormone-Free Contraception
Some people are unable to use hormonal contraception due to side effects or medical risks.
Hormone-free options include diaphragms, cervical caps, the contraceptive sponge, and spermicide.
Hormone-free IUDs, like the Copper T, are also an option.
The Pull-Out Method
Some couples opt to usecoitus interruptus, better known as thewithdrawal methodor pulling out.
Natural Family Planning
Natural family planning is another technique some couples use to prevent pregnancy.
This involves tracking your menstrual cycle and watching for signs of ovulation.
However, research shows natural family planning has a typical failure rate of 24%.
Practicing safer sex shouldn’t be seen as a sign that someone doesn’t trust their partner.
It is certainly possible to make an informed decision to become fluid bonded with a partner.
That’s true even with a partner who is positive for an STI.
However, fluid bonding is not a choice that should be made lightly.
Fluid bonding should never be a way of proving your love or your trust.
A Word From Verywell
People may engage in fluid bonding for positive or negative reasons.
It’s also important to discuss your commitments around sexual exclusivity and or practicing safe sex.
Be realistic about what you’ve got the option to and can’t do in your relationship.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Getting tested for STIs.
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