fluid-bond (verb) to exchange bodily fluids during sexual activity after making a mutual decision to stop using protective barriers

After much discussion and a visit to a testing clinic, Taylor and Emmy decided to move to the next stage of sexual intimacy by fluid-bonding.

This week’s sex word emerged from the multifaceted world of polyamory but is now often used in a monogamous context as well. To put it simply, fluid-bonding is when sexual partners decide to stop using protective barriers (a condom, a dental dam, etc.) during sexual activity and exchange bodily fluids. It typically refers to ejaculate but can also include saliva, blood or other bodily secretions. Fluid-bonding takes on significance in the poly community, as an individual may be sleeping with multiple partners but decide to reserve fluid-bonding for a single partner, especially if their poly dynamic is hierarchical.

You might be thinking, I’ve had unprotected sex before; how is fluid-bonding any different? Fluid-bonding is usually seen as a thoughtful and intentional act, a meaningful display of trust and vulnerability. It’s also heavily based on consent, where all partners involved have an open and honest dialogue about their sexual health and sexual histories. It’s usually not bringing home a one-time hookup and hastily deciding to forgo barrier protection after rummaging around fruitlessly in your nightstand. Fluid-bonding can be a risky endeavor, as there’s always the possibility of contracting or spreading sexual transmitted diseases. If there’s penile-vaginal intercourse involved, there’s also the chance of an unplanned pregnancy. You can mitigate these risks by being tested for STIs in advance of fluid-bonding and by finding an alternate mode of contraception such as the pill or an IUD. When it’s an informed choice by all parties, fluid-bonding can be a satisfying way to build a more intimate connection and feel closer to your partner(s)!