When you decide to have sex, it is important to know that there is a chance that you can become pregnant or get a sexually transmitted infection (STI) from your partner.  While there is always a risk that either of these things will happen, there are many things you can do to protect yourself.  These things are called ‘safer sex’.  Choosing safer sex shows respect for yourself and your body, as well as your partner and his or her body.  

Be Safe

Safer sex starts with thinking about sex risks and then making safer sex decisions. This includes decisions about the amount of risk you’re willing to take when it comes to STIs or pregnancy.

Sexual activity also has emotional risks. You could get your feelings hurt or your heart broken. You could also find that your “love life” becomes a hot topic of conversation or gossip at school or amongst your friends. If it does, some people may label you with words that are hurtful – like “slut”, “skank” or “sleeze”. These words are hurtful and do not show respect.