Being sexually healthy is
about having the skills, confidence and knowledge to take care of
yourself and others. Safer sex is about making choices about the
sex you are having and the contraception you use to protect
yourself against unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted
infections (STI's).
STI's are on the increase. If
you've ever had unsafe sex then you may be at risk, even if you're
perfectly healthy and have no symptoms of an infection at all.
STI's affect men and women and can have serious consequences if
left undiagnosed. Only condoms can protect against STI's so if
you're worried about infections and pregnancy why not go double
dutch and use condoms and the pill!
Contraception services
provide free and confidential advice and supplies for the
prevention of unwanted pregnancy e.g. emergency contraception,
contraceptive pills, injections, coils, implants, referral for
abortion and condoms. GUM services provide confidential
advice and treatment for people who are worried about infections
that can be spread by sexual contact. It is suggested that anyone
who is sexually active with more than one partner goes along for a
sexual health check-up at least once every six months. If you
notice any signs or symptoms that are unusual for you its best to
go and get them checked out.
All sexual health services are
confidential even if you're under 16, to find your nearest service
call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or visit
www.ruthinking.co.uk
Condoms
Condoms are one of the most
effective contraceptive methods helping to protect against sexually
transmitted infection and unplanned pregnancies
Used correctly and consistently,
condoms are up to 99% effective. Condoms can be used for oral,
vaginal and anal sex and condoms come in all shapes, sizes and
flavours. To find out more about what to look out for on your
condoms and how to use condoms effectively, or to find out where
you can get condoms for free visit www.ruthinking.co.uk
Emergency contraception
If you've forgotten to take your
pill, your condom split or you've had unprotected sex in the last
72 hours then you may need emergency contraception, and the sooner
you take it the better. Emergency contraception is available free
from Contraception and Sexual Health Services, some GP's (family
doctors) and selected pharmacies, even if you're under 16. To find
your nearest local service ring NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or visit
www.ruthinking.co.uk
Further Info
To find out more about sexual health and
your choices check out these links:
www.getiton.nhs.uk
Local sexual health services
www.brook.org.uk
Brook provides free and confidential sexual
health advice and contraception to people up to 25
The Family Planning Association
Info about all aspects of sex education and
teenage life
Sexual health information
Health info and advice for young people
The Eastleigh Healthy Living Network is not
responsible for content on external websites