Healthier Sex

If you only have sex with one person and both of you are faithful, you are not likely to catch an Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). However, if you feel you are at risk from HIV or any other STI, you should follow some healthier sex guidelines.

> Using Condoms (‘Rubbers’, ‘Sheaths’ ‘Johnnies’) is the best way to avoid infection. They offer protection against STI’s, including HIV, and can help to provide protection against cancer of the cervix in women.

> Mutual masturbation is OK, so long as neither you nor your partner have cuts, scratches or open wounds on your hands, penis or vagina.

> Oral sex can be risky, with the risk highest for the woman giving oral sex, even if the man withdraws before orgasm. There is still a risk for men giving oral sex to women, particularly if the man has any ulcers or sores in his mouth, or if the women has any discharge or sores from a vaginal infection.

> A man can ejaculate on his partner’s body provided his semen does not come into contact with a body opening or an open cut, sore or rash.

> The most dangerous type of sex is anal sex, and this is particularly risky if there is a possibility that your partner is carrying HIV, hepatitis B, gonorrhoea or syphilis. Because condoms are designed for vaginal sex they are not suitable for this type of sex, so there is a higher risk of infection.

> If you suspect that either you or your partner may have developed an STI of any type, you should not have sexual intercourse. If you do, you must use a condom. You should both see a doctor too.

> Basically, do not take any risks. Always use a condom – don’t risk your health.

Click on:
www.fpa.org.uk
www.likeitis.org.uk
www.avert.org – look at young people’s section

Contact:
You can call the SEXWISE confidential helpline for teenagers on anything to do with 'STIs', relationships & contraception, open from 7am to 12 midnight everyday (all calls are free) on 0800 28 29 30

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