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SAFER SEX INCLUDES:
1) Any sexual activity that does not involve blood, semen or vaginal/cervical fluids getting into the blood stream, such as non-penetrative sex, fondling, stroking, body kissing etc.
2) Those activities, which are more risky, can be made safer by using a barrier such as a condom, a femidom or a dental dam (a 6" square piece of flavoured latex that can be placed over the vagina).
3) Reducing the risk of HIV infection from oral sex by using condoms. Oral sex can be made safer by using a dental dam for licking or a flavoured condom for sucking.
4) Wearing a latex glove when fisting (inserting part or all of the hand into the vagina or rectum) as it carries a risk of STI's if there are cuts or open sores on the hand.
The following is a brief guide to the various types of contraceptive devices, which are available. When considering what type of contraception to use make sure that you are properly aware of any possible risks it may involve, and also, most importantly, the correct way it should be used. The Health Centre on campus, the Education and Welfare Officer or your G.P. or family planning clinic will be able to give you all the information that you need before making your choice.
It is possible to get pregnant even when you have sex for the first time. There is no such thing as 100% safe time when you can't get pregnant. It is even possible when you have your period. Coitus Interruptus (when the male withdraws before ejaculation) is not a safe method of birth control, as a small amount of sperm can be released before a man reaches orgasm. It is possible to get pregnant while using birth control. All contraceptive devices must be used exactly as instructed to provide maximum protection.
FICTION
It won't happen to me.
THE PILL
There are a number of different types of the pill available. The pill works by preventing the usual monthly release of an egg.
Advantages - It is convenient and one of the most reliable forms of birth control. It can also help to alleviate heavy and painful periods.
Disadvantages - It can cause side effects such as headaches, weight increase and depression. It may not be advisable to use the pill if you suffer from certain medical conditions such as migraine or heart problems, but your Doctor will decide this. Be warned that being ill, particularly if you vomit or have diarrhoea, might cancel out the effectiveness of the pill. Certain drugs, particularly antibiotics can also affect the pill. If you are prescribed some always remind your Doctor that you also take the pill.
Simple to obtain and easy to use, the condom is a very popular method of contraception. It comes in many different shapes and sizes. It is a barrier method and can therefore help prevent the spread of STI's as well as being a contraceptive. Most condoms are pre-lubricated with spermacide, which helps the condom from splitting.
Advantages - It is convenient, easily available and reliable if used properly.
Disadvantages - At the height of passion, stopping to put it on can be a pain and it may slip off or split if not used correctly.
Free condoms are available from the Education and Welfare Office or Site Vice President.
A female condom can be inserted into the vagina several hours before sex and removed safely afterwards. It is made from polyurethane and is non-spermacidally lubricated, making it more suitable for use by women who are allergic to spermacide or rubber.
Advantages - It may protect against cancer of the cervix and oil-based lubricants can be used with a female condom.
Disadvantages - It is expensive to buy and it might slip during sex.
This is a soft rubber dome, which is placed over the cervix. It must be used with spermacidal cream or jelly.
Advantages: It is completely harmless and cannot be felt by either partner during intercourse.
Disadvantages: It requires motivation and is less effective than the pill. It is not always suitable for older women.
This is a small device made of plastic and copper. A Doctor inserts it into the uterus. Once in place it can be effective for several years.
Advantages: Once in place it does not interfere with intercourse and is a reliable form of contraception.
Disadvantages: It can cause heavy and painful periods, pelvic inflammation and even fertility problems. It is therefore not recommended to women who have not had children.
A soft round sponge containing spermacide which is put into the vagina before sex to cover the cervix. It works for 24 hours after insertion. It must stay in for 6 hours after sex.
Advantages: You can have sex more than once without using extra spermacide. It is suitable for those with reduced fertility, i.e. women near menopause or mothers who are breast-feeding.
Disadvantages: It is expensive and unreliable. It is available from all Family Planning Clinics and should not be used during a period.
This is where an injection releases the hormone Progesterone very slowly into the body, which stops ovulation.
Advantages: It does not interrupt sex and it may protect against cancer of the womb.
Disadvantages: Periods often become irregular or stop. Regular periods and fertility may take a year to return after stopping the injections and some women may gain weight.
This involves working out a woman's fertility cycle. This tells her when she is most fertile and should avoid sex.
Advantages: It is good for people who do not wish to use contraception for religious or other reasons. No mechanical devices or hormones are used.
Disadvantages: It requires discipline and patience to work out a safe period. It is also not a reliable method of contraception. It will involve avoiding sex at some times of the month. If you are going to use this method of contraception seek the advice of your Doctor first.
Sterilisation is a permanent method and should only be considered if you are absolutely sure that you do not want to have any more children. In males the tubes carrying the sperm are cut so sperm is not present in the semen that is ejaculated when the man "comes".
Advantages: It is very effective. The operation takes 10-15 minutes and can be done at a Doctor's surgery or clinic.
Disadvantages: It usually takes a few months for all the sperm to dispel from the semen and contraception must be used during this time until there are two negative sperm tests.
In females the fallopian tubes are cut or blocked so that eggs cannot travel down to meet the sperm.
Advantages: It is effective immediately after the operation and is the safest method of birth control.
Disadvantages: Often the operation is irreversible so it is not an option if you are likely to change your mind.
This is not a method of contraception and should only be used as an emergency method. Pregnancy can usually be avoided by taking the emergency pill within 72 hours of intercourse. If you think you need this pill, consult your doctor immediately or visit the Health Centre/Family Planning Clinic.
