And for good measure:
Fizzlesticks' Fantastic Safer Sex Kit - Checklist
Or 'Things to consider to help you decide if you're ready for sex'
2nd Edition! |
NB: In this article, sex refers to
all sexual activity.
- Gynecologist or GP appointment
Before you have sex, both you and your partner/s should have general check-ups, and be tested for all STIs, even if you've never been sexually active before (you may have a contagious disease and not even know it!).
Continue to have check-ups once or even twice a year, particularly if you have multiple partners. Make sure you have transport to the doctors/
Planned Parenthood Centre (offer cheap or free services & supplies), and someone you trust to take with you if you're feeling nervous.
Remember: always be totally honest with your doctor.
- Latex gloves
Manual sex involves using the hands to stimulate the genitals. If you have rough skin, wounds (cuts, scratches, warts) or long nails, you could easily hurt your partner. Latex (or an alternative like vinyl if you're allergic) gloves solve this problem! Also, really handy for use during menstruation!
- Condoms
oral sex on a man/blow job - USE A CONDOM to prevent STIs
sharing dildos - USE CONDOMS to prevent STIs
vaginal intercourse - USE A CONDOM to prevent STIs and pregnancy
a**l sex - USE A CONDOM to prevent STIs, and to make entry easier
Spermicidal condoms are NOT recommended. They can irritate the vulva/v****a, and increase the chance of urinary tract infections in women.
- Dental dams
Dams - a thin sheath of latex - are essential for cunnilingus (oral sex on a woman, 'going down') and analingus/rimming (oral stimulation of the a**s). A cut open condom or latex glove will also suffice, or glad wrap if you're REALLY desperate. These will reduce the risk of STI contraction - because you sure can catch STIs (herpes, aka cold sores, particularly) via oral sex. Also, really handy for use during menstruation! By the way, Glyde makes dams in flavours - raspberry, vanilla and cola.
blaugh
- LUBE!
Water-based lube helps make entry easier during penetrative sex, helps prevent latex barriers tearing, is relaxing and keeps everything lubricated. It is essential!
NB: Beware of oil-based lubricants; they break down latex.
True (irrelevant) story: Fizz once slurged 'tester' Strawberry Shortcake-flavoured lube all over herself at an adult store. Be careful - it's slippery. xp
- The Pill and other contraceptives
If you are sexually active in a heterosexual relationship, it's wise to consider going on the Pill
or an alternative hormonal contraceptive to help prevent pregnancy. You will need to discuss possible side-effects and which contraceptive might be right for you with your doctor.
- Emotional Stability
Are you sure you want to have sex? Are you in a stable frame of mind at the moment? Can you deal with emotional/physical consequences of sex? Have you got an open, honest relationship with your partner? Supportive friends and family?
- Plan B
Do you have access to pregnancy tests? The morning-after pill, if the condom breaks? Have you made decisions
together about what you will do in the case of pregnancy or Sexually Transmitted Infection?
- Money
You're going to need cash to buy all this safe sex gear (most of which you can find at the doctor's, pharmacy or supermarket), and to cover you in case of emergency. Do you have a steady income?
Got everything? Go have fun.