Better safe than sorry
4th Dec 2018
A guide for practicing safe-sex
With sex, comes great responsibility.
Ladies, it is important that we take control and care of our sexual health & safety.
Don’t want to get pregnant?
Don’t want an STI?
We’ve got you covered, this article provides you with some guidelines for practicing safe sex.
Birth control methods
Studies have shown that there are more than 15 methods in total. So, take your pick.
Here are a few options, listed from most effective to least. Follow these methods in order to avoid an unwanted pregnancy.
1. Implant – 99% effective, can last up to 5 years
2. Intrauterine device (IUD) – 99% effective, can last up to 3-12 years
3. Birth control shot – 94% effective, every 3 months
4. Patch – 91% effective, replace on a weekly basis
5. Pill – 91% effective, daily dosage
6. Diaphragms – 88% effective, use every time
7. Condoms – 85% effective, use every time1
Sexually transmitted infections (STI) prevention methods
Although the only guaranteed way to steer fully clear of STIs is not to have sex, there are several methods you can follow in order to limit the risk of getting STIs.
Do not wait until you are sexually involved with someone to take these protective measures, STI prevention begins before engaging in any sexual activity.
Some of the prevention methods are:
1. Communication – regardless of how awkward it may be, talk about your sexual histories
2. One partner – more sexual partners = a higher risk of getting an STI, so stick to one sexual partner in order to limit the risk.
3. Condoms – condoms are your best friend. Use latex or polyurethane condoms
4. Avoid anal – anal sex = higher risk of contracting an STI.
5. Vaccinations – get vaccinated against hepatitis B (HBV) and human papillomavirus (HPV).
6. Get tested – not everyone that has an STI is aware of it so it is important that both you and your partner get tested.
7. Good hygiene – wash your hands before & after sexual activity, rinse off after, and urinate after sex.
Protect your body, protect your future
Even though vaginal sex is the only way to get pregnant, you can contract an STI from several types of sexual encounters including vaginal, anal, and oral sex, kissing . Yes, even kissing. You can contract oral herpes from kissing. So, use protection.
1. Oral sex - dental dams, male condoms
2. Anal sex – male condoms
3. Vaginal sex – male condoms.
Communication
Communicate.
Communicate with your sexual partner(s).
Communicate with your doctor.
Communicate with yourself.
Discuss sexual histories, preferences, decisions, concerns, etc.
Have awkward conversations, go for uncomfortable checkups, research your options.
It is better to be safe than sorry.
Reading these guidelines is one thing and implementing them is another. If you don’t want an unplanned pregnancy and an STI, then do the latter.