1. Chapter 14SAFER SEX By Fatima Cofie

2. What is Sex? Having intercourse between two partners. It could be oral (mouth) It could be anal contact (buttocks) It could also be vaginal contact. It could also mean man and woman or gender. What is Safe Sex? Safe sex simply means using barriers or other safe methods to protect oneself against STI’s and STD’s. It can also mean abstinence, that is, not having sex at all.

4. It also reduces the risk of contracting other sexually transmitted infections such as (Chlamydia, herpes, genital wart etc)

5. It also reduces female infertility due to pelvic infections caused by having sexual intercourse with an infected man.

7. Challenges To Using Protection Many men and women have problems as to how a condom is worn. They feel shy their partners would ridicule them if they wear it. For example, in chapter 14 pg 269 of the book under Our Own Attitudes, it says “If I bring a condom he’ll think I’m a sleaze.” Many people are also allergic to latex therefore they ignore the fact that they need to be safe. Some men and women also complain that sex isn’t good/fun with condoms because of the size of the condom it may be too tight, large or too small. Others fail to use protection also because they feel their partners do not trust them. Many partners may want to have a baby so they never use a condom. Many men fear they may be unable to have an erection when they use condoms.

8. Talk To Your Partner about Safe Sex * Talk about STI’s and STD’s before having sex. Remember birth control pills does not protect against STI’s, STD’s or other bacterial infections. Ask for help if you would need any assistance using condoms. Talk to a nurse, doctor, friends or counselor. Since alcohol and drugs could interfere with decision making, its use must be avoided since one may forget to use protection.

9. STI’s and STD’s Male Infections: Herpes * Female Infections: Herpes

10. Take Care of Your Health Be aware that STI’s and STD’s can be transmitted from mother to fetus. Be aware that some STI’s may be prevented but cannot be cured. Women do not have STI symptoms compared to men. Visit your primary physicians for thorough check ups. Plan ahead if you want to have sex with your partner and be safe. Get tested today.