SAFE SEX source: condomessentialwear

Did you know that anybody who is having sex can pick up an STI - young or old, straight, gay or lesbian? (links to STI fact sheets below!)

What is safer sex?
A simple way of understanding safer sex is to see it as any sex that does not allow an infected partner's blood, semen, pre-ejaculatory fluid - precum - or fluid from the vagina to get inside the other partner's body.

What are the riskiest kinds of sex?
Vaginal and anal sex without a condom carry the highest risk. sexually transmitted infections can be passed on to either partner - male or female, active or passive - during penetrative sex (where the penis enters the vagina, mouth, or anus), without a condom.

How to be safer
Using a condom means that you are less likely to get an STI. It may be obvious to use a condom with a new partner. But once you start having sex frequently with the same person, you might think it's OK to give up using condoms. Even if you are in a long-term relationship don't stop using condoms without asking yourselves: could either of us have a sexually transmitted infection? To talk confidentially with an adviser about sexually transmitted infections, or find out where you can get tested, ring the Sexual Health and National AIDS Helpline on 0800 567 123. You can phone any time and all calls are free.

How safe is oral sex?
Oral sex is where one partner uses their tongue or mouth to stimulate their partner's genitals. There is some risk from oral sex, but it is less risky than vaginal or anal sex without a condom. The risk can be further reduced by:

• Avoiding getting semen or pre-ejaculatory fluid (precum) in the mouth, particularly if there are any cuts, sores or ulcers in the mouth
• Using a condom for oral sex with a man.

Remember
Don't give up safer sex. Only condoms provide 'all-in-one' protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) - including HIV. Carry condoms with you when you're out having fun at parties, clubs or with a Valentine, because whether you're planning on it or not you could end up having sex. If you want more information you can call the Sexual Health and National AIDS Helpline free (from the UK) on 0800 567 123 for more information on sexual health (including HIV) or phone your local NHS sexual health clinic.

If you have any of these symptoms, you might have picked up an infection. It may not turn out to be anything serious, but it is very important that you get it checked out.

• A change in the normal discharge from the vagina.
• Discharge from the penis.
• Sores or blisters near the vagina, penis or anus.
• Rash or irritation around the vagina, penis or anus.
• A burning feeling when peeing.
• Pain during sex.

Click on an infection to learn more - how you can get it and how you can treat it.