It is summertime which means late nights, drinking, holidays and letting your hair down but that shouldn’t mean that you let your sexual health take a back seat.
Sex on Female First
Durex recently found that 78 per cent of Brits admit to taking sexual risks during summer, and that 34 per cent don’t always use a condom with a new partner.
By far the most important thing to remember is to always use a condom, as this will protect against STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections)
Many people think that STIs can only be transferred through vaginal penetrative sex, but this is just one of the many ways.
Anal sex is one of the most high risk ways of contracting an STI. The NHS says, “This is because the lining of the anus is thin and can easily be damaged, which makes it more vulnerable to infection.”
STIs can also be passed on through oral sex, especially if you have cuts or sores in your mouth so, even if you think it won’t be necessary, always use a condom during oral sex.
Sharing sex toys can also spread STIs, so if you are sharing them always remember to wash them thoroughly and use a new condom with them each time.
If you’re planning to sleep with a new sexual partner, always insist that a condom is used. Don’t let them make excuses, and let it be known that if they’re no prepared to use a condom then you won’t be having sex.
Just because you know someone, don’t be fooled into thinking that they won’t have an STI. People don’t advertise it, no matter how well they know you, so protect yourself with a condom.
Don’t leave the condom until the last minute. STIs such as genital warts and scabies can be passed through skin-to-skin contact, which means there doesn’t need to be intercourse for you to contract them.
When using a condom, always check that it carries the CE safety mark which is proof of quality and always check the expiry date. Do not use a condom if it’s out of date, as it will not be guaranteed as effective.
Ben Smith, Durex senior brand manager says, “Whilst summer can be a carefree time, it’s great to see more than 80 per cent of young people acknowledge it is their responsibility to carry condoms.
“Condoms are the only form of protection that prevent against STIs which is why they should always be packed next to your sunglasses, swimmers and the rest of your summer essentials.
“If a holiday fling is happy to sleep with you without a condom, chances are you’re one in a long line of unprotected holiday dalliances. Using a Durex condom ensures you’re not sleeping with the whole of their sexual history.”
People often think that if they can’t see any type of STI then there isn’t one there, but STIs do not always show symptoms straight away. It’s important to visit your local GUM clinic or GP if you’ve had unprotected sex in order to have yourself tested.
Even without symptoms, if an STI is left untreated it can lead to long term health problems. To find out more, visit NHS.uk.
tagged in Sexually Transmitted Infection