Sexuality
Transitions
Tips for keeping sex safer! ÎÎ Use condoms every time you have sex. Proper condom use is the best way to protect yourself from contracting a STI. ÎÎ Visit your doctor regularly for a STI test. Although a PAP smear can often detect HPV, it will not detect other STIs. ÎÎ A single committed partner decreases the risk. Multiple casual partners puts you at higher risk – if you increase the number of partners, increase your safety protocol! ÎÎ You can use flavoured condoms for oral sex and there are latex condoms specially designed for performing oral sex on women. ÎÎ Never touch a genital sore caused by a sexually transmitted disease. Infection can sometimes be carried on your hand to your partner’s genitals. Mouth herpes can be transmitted to the genitals during oral sex or vice versa. ÎÎ If you use sex toys, don’t share them unless you wash them first (as per instructions on the box) or use condoms on them. If you do have a STI, you may find it difficult to discuss this with new partner. Even though it’s difficult, you will feel better once you talk to them. Many STIs don’t always show symptoms and yet, have serious consequences if untreated. You can also be reinfected by several STIs if your partner is not treated. Have a conversation with your doctor about future sexual activity. There is no cure for HIV/AIDS, genital warts, or herpes, but there are ways to ensure that you have a healthy sex life with minimal risk of infecting your partner. For more information on sexually transmitted infections, visit: www.sexualityandu.ca
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