Having safe sex

If you're in a one to one relationship and neither of you have other sexual partners, then you may not need to practice safe sex. Otherwise, it's a must. Being safe is all about being honest with each other as well as what kind of contraception you use.

Safe sex means

• Getting and giving sexual pleasure without putting each other at risk
• Telling your partner if you think that you, or he, has a sexually transmitted infection and you are both going for a check-up.

Safe sex isn't just about HIV (the virus that causes AIDS). There are other infections you can get, many of which are 'silent' which means they don't have any symptoms - particularly early on. Some infections can appear to clear up on their own, but the underlying condition is still there. The only way to be sure, is to go for a check-up.

If they're not treated quickly, certain sexually transmitted infections can damage your reproductive system and make it difficult or even impossible to have children later in life. Don't let embarrassment delay a visit to a clinic. Get yourself checked-out.

Enjoying safer sex

Always use a condom for vaginal, oral or anal sex (with spermicide) even if you're using another method of contraception, such as the Pill.

Condoms are fine once you get used to them. There are lots of different colours and textures to choose from - and they're bringing out new ones all the time.

You can also have sex without penetration. There are no rules about exactly what sex is, or how you choose to do it. If you have no condoms available, this is a good alternative.