Safe Sex Defined

What is safe sex?

Safe sex is a set of practices designed to reduce the risk of infections during sexual intercourse, to avoid developing sexually-transmitted infections. This might mean using condoms or barrier methods during sex. It doesn't refer to contraception and pregnancy, it refers to avoiding infections.

Why should I practice safe sex?

A significant number of sexual infections carry severe long-term health risks, including cervical cancer. These are always best avoided and so it is much better to practice safe sex.

When should I practice safe sex?

You should always practice safe sex unless you are in a long term relationship and you and your partner are not having sex with other people.

What is unprotected sex?

Unprotected sex is sex that will put you at risk from infections. This means not using condoms or barrier methods.

Can't I just have sex with anyone I like?

You can have sex with whoever you like, but the more sexual partners you have, the greater your risk of catching sexually transmitted infections, and therefore, the more important it is for you to practice safe sex.

What is a sexually transmitted infection (STI)?

A sexually transmitted infection is any infection passed from one person to another during sexual contact.