Why is it important to know?

Sexual activities can lead to not only unwanted pregnancy but also a list of STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases)—some of which can be fatal. Today STDs are at epidemic proportions, and young people are the ones at the highest risk. Unfortunately, many teenagers are unaware of the dangers they face and do not take the initiative to learn about sexual safety until it is too late. To reduce your own risk of getting STDs and pregnancy, it is extremely important for you to learn to protect yourself!

Principles of Safer Sex:

• Seriously consider whether you want to have sex
• Prevent exposure to blood, semen, vaginal and other bodily fluids

• Cover up body parts that could be infectious
• Always use a condom, and use a new one every time
• Be in a monogamous relationship
• Make sure both you and your partner get tested for STDs
• If you or your partner have/has contracted a STD, receive treatment immediately and do not have sex until your doctor says it’s okay

We use the term safer instead of safe because sexual activities can never be completely free of risk. The only way to entirely avoid STDs and unwanted pregnancy is abstinence (not having sex). Nevertheless, if you do choose to engage in sexual activities, complying with the above principles is essential to protect yourself.

Alternative Ways to Show Affection:

While the subject of sex may be over-emphasized in today’s media, there are many other ways for people in a relationship to show love. In fact, many people find these alternatives just as sexy and enough to express their love for each other:

• Kissing
• Dancing
• Hugging
• Touching
• Massaging
• Cuddling
• Saying warm and tender things to each other