The use of condoms is always a relevant topic in the lifestyle.
As was pointed out earlier, there is no such thing as having safe sex in the lifestyle. Swinging is, by definition, a risky behavior. However, that risk can be mitigated. How? Unfortunately, we believe many people start this discussion with asking the wrong question. Here's the way we approached it:
What steps can we take to mitigate the potential of being exposed, or exposing someone else, to an STD/STI or similar disease? We *strongly* suggest discussing this with your respective doctor prior to engaging in any lifestyle activity. We did and it was eye-opening. And we continue to discuss it, every year, during our annual check-ups.
What level of risk are we reasonably willing to accept? If one is not willing to accept at least some level of risk, they should not engage in the lifestyle.
What steps are we reasonably willing to take to mitigate the risks?
We arrived at the conclusion that the best course of action for us is to use a layered approach as follows:
Group? Closed.
Number of partners? Small.
History of highly risky behavior (i.e., use of illicit drugs, sex with prostitutes, bisexual males, anonymous sex, etc.) among the partners? None reported*
Regular testing? Without exception.
Condoms? Every time, with the exception of sex between spouses or their partners/significant others.
We realize not everyone is willing to take all of these steps. However, this approach works for us and is no big deal.
It's easy to dismiss risks when you're 30 years-old, your dick is harder than quantum physics, and your life seems like it will go on forever. In time, your perspective changes.
Frankly, as we have grown older and our own mortality and the general frailty of human life becomes more obvious, caring for our own health and the health of our those in our circle of partners, has never been more important.
*It's an Honor System. No way to be certain if someone is telling the truth, lying, or simply does not remember that long ago Saturday night with the two strippers in Tijuana.