Safe Sex
Can you get an STI from kissing?
You can’t get STIs from kissing, but you can pass on/get cold sores. If you give your partner oral sex with a cold sore, they may develop genital herpes so use some kind of barrier e.g. a condom.
Do you need condoms for oral sex?
STIs such as HIV and herpes can be caught during oral sex. It is therefore important to use a condom when giving a male oral sex, and a dental dam for a female.
How can lesbians have safe sex?
You can use dental dams or a cut open condom for oral sex, and you can use condoms for sex toys. Use a new condom for each partner. Wash toys after use.
What are dental dams?
A dental dam is a thin latex square that covers a woman’s genitals or a man/woman’s anal area during oral sex to protect against STIs.
What are safe sexual activities?
Safe sexual activities means using condoms/dental dams to protect against STIs/pregnancy. See www.ruthinking.co.uk or call Sexwise on 0800282930 for more info.
What is safe sex?
Safe sex means using protection so no infected fluids can enter your body/ be passed to a partner. Always use condoms and/or dental dams to protect against STIs
Contraception
Does the emergency pill affect your periods?
The emergency contraceptive pill can affect your menstrual cycle. See the instruction booklet that comes with the pill, or speak to the GP/pharmacist for advice.
Can I get pregnant if my partner doesn't ejaculate?
You can still get pregnant if your partner doesn’t ejaculate, as he may still release seminal fluid containing sperm. Always practice safe sex and use a condom.
Where can I get the pill from?
You can get the pill from your GP or a sexual health clinic. They will advise you which is the most suitable one for you. See www.ruthinking.co.uk for more info
Where can I get emergency contraception?
You can get it free from your GP or sexual health clinic or buy it from a chemist. Call Sexwise: 0800282930 or FPA: 08453101334 for local clinic/pharmacy info.
How soon after I start taking it does the pill become effective?
It depends on the pill you take as there are different types. Ask your GP for advice, call NHS Direct: 08454647 or check the instruction leaflet in the box.
How soon after having the contraceptive injection can I stop using condoms?
Use condoms for the first 7 days unless the doctor says it is ok not to. Always use condoms unless you and your partner have had a full sexual health check.
I have to take my pill for 3 weeks then stop for a week. Do I use a condom for the week?
All pills work differently. Check the instruction leaflet or ask your GP for advice. Always use condoms unless you and your partner have been tested for STIs.
What are the risks of pregnancy if I have missed a pill?
If not taken correctly your pill may not be effective. See the instruction leaflet in the packet or speak to your GP or NHS Direct on 08454647 for advice.
My partner won't use a condom
Not using a condom means there will be a risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Explain to your partner you aren’t willing to risk your health.
What is contraception?
Contraception such as condoms, the pill, injection, implant and coil reduce the risk of pregnancy. Only condoms protect against both STIs and pregnancy.
What is emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception can be used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to prevent pregnancy. Emergency pill within 72 hrs or the IUD up to 120 hrs.
What is the female condom/femidom?
Female condoms are a type of pouch which fits inside the vagina. It’s 95% effective if used correctly. See www.condomessentialwear.co.uk for more information.
Is it legal to get condoms/contraception under 16?
It is legal to buy/get free contraception and to get contraceptive advice under the age of 16. However, you cannot legally have sex until you are 16 or over.
If I am on the pill do I need to use condoms as well?
The pill protects against pregnancy but not STIs. Use condoms as well for dual protection no contraceptive is 100% effective. Condoms R free at local C-Card point.
What is the rhythm method?
Its a way of trying to avoid pregnancy by not having sex during the womans fertile times of the month. It isnt always effective and doesn’t protect against STIs.
Condoms
Can you get different sized condoms?
Condoms are available in lots of different sizes free from C-Card Schemes. Its important to get the correct size to prevent the condom slipping off or splitting.
Are novelty condoms safe?
Only condoms with the British Institution’s Standard Kitemark are safe to use, and most novelty condoms don’t meet this standard. Check the packet to be sure.
Allergy to latex
Latex free condoms are available from most clinics/C-Card Schemes and chemists for people with latex allergies. Call Sexwise on 0800282930 for more information.
Condoms spoil things
It is important to use condoms to prevent STIs and unwanted pregnancy. Unprotected sex can be a risk to your health. See www.ruthinking.co.uk for more info.
Do I need to use condoms for oral sex?
STIs such as HIV and herpes can be caught during oral sex. It is therefore important to use a condom when giving a male oral sex, and a dental dam for a female.
How can I make my partner use a condom
Use condoms to protect against both STIs and pregnancy. Both partners are responsible for practicing safe sex. Let your partner know you won’t risk your health.
How do I put a condom on?
Follow the instructions in the box or see www.condomessentialwear.co.uk for a step by step guide on using condoms. Call Sexwise on 0800282930 for more advice.
How to dispose of condoms?
Don’t flush condoms down the toilet. Wrap them in tissue and put into a bin. Always wash your hands afterwards. See www.ruthinking.co.uk for further info.
How safe are condoms?
If used correctly condoms are 98% effective. No contraception is 100%, so for dual protection use another method as well, such as the pill, implant or injection.
Irritated by spermicide in condoms
Spermicide free condoms are available from most chemists/clinics, or try condoms that use different spermicide. Check the packet or ask the chemist for advice.
Do I need to use condoms for anal sex?
STIs can be caught from anal sex, so extra strong condoms should be used (available from most chemists/supermarkets). A normal condom is better than no condom.
What do I do if the condom splits?
Emergency contraception can be taken within 72 hours, available free from a GP/clinic or to buy from a chemist. You may also need an STI test.
Where can I buy condoms?
Hi, you can buy condoms from most chemists, supermarkets, petrol stations and vending machines even under 16. Ensure they have the British Kite Mark for quality
Where can I get free condoms?
Local C-Card schemes, sexual health and youth clinics, GP's offer free condoms. Buy them at a chemist, supermarket, petrol station or vending machine.
