Safer sex and its intricacies Part2

If safer sex does not happen

Sometimes, despite your best intentions, safer sex does not happen every time. Some people may be less careful if they’ve been drinking, and others may forget in the heat of the moment. Don’t give up on safer sex because of a slip-up. Keep practising safer sex. You may not have been infected when you had unprotected sex, but to continue having unprotected sex makes it more likely that you will become infected.

If you have unprotected sex, get tested for sexually transmitted infections such as Chlamydia. Chlamydia for example is common, easy to treat and can cause serious problems if not treated. Have STI testing regularly.

HIV

If you have unprotected sex with someone who is HIV positive, see a doctor as soon as possible. PEP (post exposure prophylaxis) started within 72 hours of exposure (the earlier the better) reduces the likelihood of getting infected with HIV

Negotiating safer sex

Starting a conversation with a partner (or potential partner) about safer sex can be tough.

It is often difficult to be assertive when negotiating safer sex.

You could worry about your partner’s reaction

You might worry about not knowing how to use a condom.

Many cultures don’t speak openly about sex and this can make it difficult because you’re just not used to talking about it