Pleasures and Risks
Just as a foray into an unknown, uncharted territory can be exciting, a steamy one night fling with a near stranger can be a real turn-on for many. But, as some people have realised, it can turn into a never-ending nightmare.
Sleeping with the Enemy
It is well known that unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, sharing needles, razors, toothbrushes or a contaminated blood transfusion puts one at a risk of HIV infection. Before you confidently shrug yourself off the high-risk list, stop, think - are you really sure that your partner or potential sex companion has never indulged in risque behaviour?
The catch with HIV infection is that there is no sure-fire way of knowing if a person is infected. It can take up to 10 years before the HIV infection develops into full blown AIDS. Very often, even the infected person is genuinely unaware that they have HIV and may unknowingly pass on the virus.
The safest option is to have a mutually monogamous relationship with an uninfected partner.
Practicing 'safer sex' could be a choice for some. Safer sex involves the regular use of condoms during all forms of sexual interactions including vaginal, anal and oral sex. Safer sex is also advisable for those who are in doubt of their partner's fidelity.
The use of condoms is not necessarily a kill-joy. Putting on a condom can be part of foreplay, and there are many different types of condoms available in the market to cater to personal preferences. Some advantages to using a condom include:
- Not having to worry about unwanted pregnancies
- Protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- Spicing up foreplay and sex when different condoms are used "just for the fun of it".
The Truth about Condoms
Condoms offer effective protection against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. Here are some condom-savvy tips to help you make informed choices:
- Ensure that your condoms have not expired.
- If the condom feels too tight, simply get a larger size. Condoms are available in different sizes.
- Use lubricants to aid penetration if you feel that the condom is too dry. Scented lubricants add to the fun!
- Make sure you are adequately stocked with condoms; a last minute dash to the pharmacy may spoil your mood or tempt you to throw caution to the wind and have unprotected sex. Keep adequate spares to indulge in repeated bouts of passion.
- Store condoms in a convenient location, such as your bedroom drawer. Keeping them in your wallet or jeans pocket is not a good idea, as body heat and friction can wear the condom out, even through the packaging.
- Using a condom does not take the fun out of sex. The act of wearing the condom can be part of the foreplay; you can even get your partner to put it on for you. Regardless of who puts it on, always ensure that the condom is properly positioned before any sexual contact. Don't try anything too kinky, like holding the condom with your teeth or any other sharp objects that can damage it.
- Latex or polyurethane condoms offer the best protection against HIV. Fancy, expensive condoms made from natural membranes like sheepskin contain large pores that allow bacteria and viruses (e.g. HIV) to pass; hence they do not prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Latex condoms work best with water based lubricants (e.g. K-Y jelly). Commonly used lubricants like Vaseline or baby oil can break the rubber in condoms.
- The belief that using two condoms together offers double protection is a myth. On the contrary, using two condoms creates friction and increases the chances of a tear. A better solution is to use more lubricant, to reduce the risk of a condom tear.
- After having oral sex with a condom, be sure to put on a fresh one before you move on to vaginal or anal sex, just in case the original one is torn.
How to Use a Condom
- Unroll the condom over an erect penis. The roll should lie on the outside of the condom.
- Squeeze the tip as you unroll the condom to prevent trapped air from breaking the condom during use. Ensure that the condom reaches the base of the penis.
- Before you sink into the bliss of the aftermath, remember to withdraw your penis before it gets soft. Hold on to the condom at the base of the penis as you withdraw, to prevent accidental slippage.
- Condoms aren't reusable. Discard each one after use.
Take the Test
If you think you're at a risk of contracting HIV, go to your doctor or the nearest polyclinic for screening. HIV tests are most accurate when conducted one to three months after possible exposure to HIV. Even if you test negative, repeat the test after three months to be sure, as a single test may not detect recent infection. Meantime, do not have unprotected sex before your repeat test.
Remember, you are not alone. Should you have any doubts, don't delay. Seek help and advice from professionals through:
- AIDS Helpline at 1800 252 1324 (office-hours)
- AIDS Hotline at 6295 2944 (24-hour)
- HPB Healthline at 1800 223 1313
- Action for AIDS Helpline at 6254 0212
