Sexual Health
Contraceptive and Sexual Health
When it comes to sex there's a lot you need to know.
From how to avoid Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
such as Chlamydia, getting to grips with contraception, to being
clear about your sexual orientation. It can all seem a bit
daunting.
Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection, most common in
15-24 year olds. In many cases, there are no symptoms, so it is
easily passed around without people knowing. Even though it is
invisible, it has serious consequences such as infertility. The
good news is that testing and treatment is easy and free for under
25s.
The RUSure website has all the advice and answers you're
looking for: http://www.rusure.org.uk/
Alcohol and Sex
One too many?
Alcohol is commonly drunk to make people feel more relaxed,
confident and sociable. Because of these effects, some people also
use alcohol to help them start new sexual relationships. However,
excessive alcohol consumption can reduce inhibition and impair
judgment. This increases the likelihood of sexual risk taking,
which in turn increases the risk of catching a sexually transmitted
infection (STI) and/or becoming pregnant. In a worst case scenario
it may lead to
sexual assault.
If you want to cut the risk of pregnancy and sexually
transmitted infections (STIs) when you mix drink and sex, remember
to follow these easy steps:
1. Have a game plan
You don't necessarily go out expecting to have sex
2. Know your limits
The more you drink the less likely it is you'll use a condom
3. Out without a bag? No pockets?
Fit condoms in your shoe/sock/bra/pants!
4. If you're on the pill
Take it well before you start drinking so if you're sick your
contraception will still work
5. When you're out
Keep an eye on your drink to make sure no one spikes it
6. No contraception?
Loads of bars and clubs have condom machines. Keep condoms at home
just in case
7. You're out ... but your contraception is at
home
Take a pill with you if you can. To see fpa's missed pill
advice
8. Is safer sex possible when you've been
drinking?
Alcohol affects coordination. If you're drunk can you or your
partner still put a condom on?
9. Alcohol affects judgment
Will you feel okay about what happened the night before ... the
morning after?
10. Don't want sex?
Don't have it! Never let a partner or friends pressure you. Man or
woman, you can say NO to sex at any time
11. Something happened
Don't panic. Get advice from fpa or a health professional. Take
emergency hormonal contraception within 72 hours of unprotected sex
and get tested for sexually transmitted infections.
Gay or Lesbian?
Guys or girls:Are you confused about your sexual
orientation?
Lots of things in life can be confusing. Your sexual orientation
can be one of them. Working out whether you're straight, gay or
bisexual can be easy for some people. For others, it may be more
difficult.
Most people, if they're honest have fancied or had feelings for
someone of the same sex. Some may have even experimented with
another person of the same sex. The important thing though is to
realise that this is a perfectly normal part of your sexual
development.
Whether you are gay (attracted to people who are the same sex as
you), straight (attracted to the opposite sex) or bisexual
(attracted to both sexes) what really matters is that you are
comfortable with who you are. What's also important is
that you don't take risks when having sex, so that you reduce
the chances of unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted illness.
STIs - the full story
STIs or sexually transmitted illnesses are just that - illnesses
that are passed between people while having sex. There are lots of
different STIs, but many of them share the same symptoms. Things
like...
- An unusual discharge from the vagina
- An unusual discharge from the penis
- Sores or blisters round the vagina, penis or anus
- Rash or irritation round the vagina, penis or anus
- A burning sensation when you pee
- Pain or soreness when you're having sex
Got one or more of those? Then you could have one of
these...