Safe Sex Tips for Practicing Safer Sex
Top Ten Tips for Safe Sex

It is always a good idea to talk about sex with your healthcare professional, peer, or partner before you make the decision to have sex. This article gives you ten simple tips to consider before making the decision to have sex.
1. Make a clear distinction between consensual and nonconsensual sex by remembering that “no” always means no and that drunkenness doesn’t always mean yes. If you have sex with somebody who is passed out or incapable of giving consent, it can be considered rape.
2. Although abstinence is actually the most effective way to protect against STIs and prevent pregnancy, practicing abstinence doesn't mean you can't have an intimate physical relationship with someone. Other alternatives such as oral sex are available, although they carry their own risks.
3. Always talk about having safe sex with your partner beforehand. Remember: this affects both partners. If you feel uncomfortable discussing sex and birth control with your partner, then reconsider your decision to have sex with your partner. It’s better to have the discussion beforehand rather than waiting till the heat of the moment.

4. Always respect everyone’s right to make his/her own personal decision - including yourself. There is no ideal age or deadline and no perfect point in a relationship where sex has to happen. If your partner tells you that he or she is not ready to have sex, respect his/her decision, be supportive and discuss the reasons behind it.
5. Be safe when going to a party or a bar by going with friends and keep an eye out for each other. Agree that you won't leave with another person without telling someone. Sometimes a suggestion to think twice about a decision to go home with someone will be much appreciated later.
6. Be prepared and carry two condoms with you just in case one breaks or tears while it's being put on. Both parties are responsible for contraceptives, condoms, and birth control. Women should know about emergency contraception. Taken within 72 hours of intercourse, EC may prevent pregnancy.

7. Consider using a back-up method of birth control to help prevent both pregnancy and STIs. You use a birth control method like the Pill to prevent pregnancy, along with a condom to prevent STI transmission. Condom use is essential for relationships that are not monogamous.
8. Never feel pressured to have sex or have sex for reasons motivated by fear. If you don’t want to have sex, be honest with your partner. If they care about you, they should be sympathetic toward your feelings.
9. Never abuse alcohol/use drugs if you think things could get physical. This can inhibit your decision-making ability and make you forget contraception, disable your ability to give consent, and make bad decisions.

10. Always get regular check-ups to make sure you are healthy and free of all STI’s. Women should have annual gynecological exams.