Sections   | Out of it | Contraception | STIs

STIs

Be safe: Avoid diseases and infections. | Tiaki ia koe

"There's more to safer sex than condoms"
There are other ways of enjoying sex without the risks that go with having sexual intercourse. Body rubbing, massage and mutual masturbation are some of the things people can do.

Does "being safe" just mean not getting pregnant?
Can you catch STIs from a toilet seat?

STIs are infections or diseases you can catch from close sexual contact. Some people call them STDs. Most STIs are caught by vaginal, anal or oral sex (chlamydia, genital warts, herpes, gonorrhoea). Some (crabs, scabies, warts, herpes) are passed on by close skin contact. You can't get an STI from kissing, holding hands, eating together, or toilet seats. And you can't tell if someone has an STI just by looking at them - people can have STIs without any signs or symptoms.

Some STIs can make you very sick. They can also make you infertile and you can die from some like HIV/AIDs. If you decide to be sexually active, there are ways you can protect yourself from STIs. Condoms, if used correctly, are the most effective protection against HIV/AIDs and most STIs. So even if you are using another form of contraception like the pill, it's safer to use a condom as well. There is information in condom packs. Read it.

Using a water based lubricant (like KY jelly) is also important, condoms are less likely to break or come off. Many people say that it also makes intercourse more comfortable and pleasurable. Don't use Vaseline or baby oil - they melt the rubber.

Don't be tempted to use plastic wrap like GLAD WRAP^® instead of a condom - this is not safe.

Dental dams can be placed over the vulva or anus for protection during oral sex.

How can you tell if you've got an STI?

Some common signs: an unusual discharge from the penis or vagina, a pain or tingling feeling when urinating (peeing), a rash, an itch, a wart or sore around the genitals or anus. Some STIs have no symptoms, so if you are sexually active it's important to get checked out at your local FPA or Sexual Health Centre, or by a doctor.

Safer Sex.

If two people have intercourse it may not always be completely safe. There can be a risk of pregnancy or infection, even if they're using contraception or condoms. That's why it is called 'safer sex' not 'safe sex'. When people use contraception carefully the risk of pregnancy is small. Condoms are only effective if used correctly every time.

Safer sex means more than just using condoms. It could mean being sexual by yourself or giving each other sexual pleasure in other ways. Body rubbing, massage, mutual masturbation are some of the things people can do, together.

Click here for more information about STIs.

If you're worried that one of you might have an STI, go together to an FPA or Sexual Health Centre, and get checked out. Click here for phone numbers and addresses of FPA Centres in New Zealand.