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Sex
We all know that students leave home and sh*g like rabbits... don't we? If it's true for you then read on. If it's not, read on and find out all about it.
Contraception
You may have had that whole traumatic experience of the condom on the banana in your sex education classes, but just in case you're 'out of practice', here's a quick reminder:
Condoms
Using condoms is the best way to prevent sexually transmitted diseases - and they help avoid pregnancy - but you have to use them properly. So girls and guys, before the embarrassed fumbling starts - read and digest. Condoms come in all different sizes, which is why there are condoms to fit us all. However, it is important to use one properly everytime you have sex: Condoms only roll one way (when a condom won't roll properly, it's probably inside out). When you put it on, leave a space at the tip, and don't use oily lubricants, like baby oil or Vaselineª, which could make it slip off. Instead use water based lubricants like KY jellyª. Check now and again during sex that the condom is still on - without spoiling your enjoyment . Afterwards, pull out almost immediately, before the penis gets soft, so the condom doesn't slip off, remembering to hold the base as you do it. Be careful where you keep them - condoms can degrade in sunlight or if carried around for years on the off chance that you strike lucky one day. Use a new condom everytime. Check the sell-by date and look for the BSI Kitemark (British Standards Institute) or European CE mark (female condoms don't have them). Believe it or not they can go off.
The Pill
The combined pill - Contains two hormones, progestogen and oestrogen which stop a woman ovulating (releasing an egg) each month.
Progestogen only pill - Taken at the same time each day, it causes changes making it difficult for a woman to accept a fertilised egg, or for sperm to enter the womb. In some cases, it can prevent ovulation. Advantages: 99% success rate and non intrusive. Disadvantages: May be temporary side effects and periods may be irregular. Must be taken regularly. Heavy use of some recreational drugs may stop it working.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)
If you suspect you have a sexually transmitted disease then go and get a check-up. You don't have to go to your own GP or campus clinic. You can contact a local GUM (genito-urinary clinic) Check phonebook for GUM, STD, VD or special clinic. Most large hospitals have a GUM clinic. The longer you leave a problem the worse it will get...
Interestingly, although men are less likely to go to the doctors than a woman, and it's generally women who go to the family planning clinics, men are more likely to attend GUM clinics. The FPA (Family Planning Association) say the way forward to getting men actively involved in sexual health care and pregnancy issues/family planning is to combine the services to cover all types of sex advice and help - and to change the images of GUMS, so there is no degree of embarrassment in attending them.
Meet new people to go clubbing/drinking with in our Social Life discussion forum
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