Safer sex – all wrapped up

An unplanned or casual sexual encounter this summer could have consequences that last a lifetime...

A combination of summer, holidays, sun and alcohol can result in people of all ages behaving in a manner they wouldn't normally and we all need to recognize the risks of unprotected or unplanned sexual activity.

These risks include sexually transmissible infections, including HIV, or an unplanned pregnancy, which can change people's live forever. You should not to take short-cuts or risks with your sexual health over the holiday season - and to be especially aware of the risks of mixing sex and alcohol.

For people of all ages, sex and alcohol can be a worrying combination. Too much alcohol can affect people's judgement and ability to assess what they do and don't feel comfortable with. It means people tend to take more risks, they're not quite so careful about how and when they have sex, they're less likely to use contraception or condoms, and are more likely to regret sex.

Family Planning has issued a poster to reinforce the safer sex theme and its message saying:
"Do you wrap all your gifts? - use condoms and lube this festive season."

Here's five key points Family Planning would like all the slynkey girls to remember these holidays:

1. Family Planning clinics will be open during the holidays - check out the website www.familyplanning.org.nz for details of the clinic nearest you. If you're under 22, a clinic visit is free and if you have a Community Services Card, a clinic visit costs just $5.

2. Condoms and lube are the best protection against sexually transmissible infections.

3. Remember to pack your contraceptives if you're travelling away from home over the summer holidays.

4. If you've had unprotected sex you can take the Emergency Contraceptive Pill for up to 72 hours afterwards. The ECP is available from Family Planning clinics, your doctor, accident and medical centres, sexual health clinics and pharmacies.

5. Alcohol or drugs can affect your decision making abilities. Stay with a group of friends and have a designated decision-maker to make sure everyone has a good time and gets home safely.

More information is available from www.familyplanning.org.nz


By Family Planning Chief Executive Jackie Edmond - Wellington