Sex is a big step, and every young man should know how to protect himself and his partner. Contraception and safer sex are about more than preventing pregnancy. They are about protecting your sexual health, showing respect, and taking responsibility for a happy, healthy relationship. Whether you have sex with women, men, or both, it is important to be informed.
Why Safer Sex Matters for Healthy Relationships
Sex without protection can lead to sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and, for those who have sex with women, unplanned pregnancy. Using contraception and practising safer sex help protect everyone involved. Taking care of your sexual health is not embarrassing – it shows you care about yourself and your partner.
Condoms: Still the Best Defence
Condoms are one of the most effective ways to protect against STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhoea and HIV. For men who have sex with women, condoms also help prevent pregnancy.
External condoms (worn on the penis) and internal condoms (worn inside the vagina or anus) are both available. Internal condoms can be a good option for anal sex too. Some people prefer using extra lube with condoms for comfort – just make sure it is water-based or silicone-based, so it does not damage the condom.
Tips for using condoms properly:
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Check the expiry date.
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Store them in a cool, dry place.
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Do not keep them in your wallet for ages.
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Practise putting one on before you need it.
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Use a new condom every time you have sex.
Other Contraception Options
If you have sex with women, remember there are other methods like the pill, the implant, or the coil. However, these do not protect against STIs, so using condoms is still important. Talk with your partner about what contraception they use and how you will stay protected together – good communication is a true foundation stone for healthy relationships.
For more advice specifically on contraception, check out our earlier blog here.
Emergency Contraception
Mistakes happen. If a condom breaks during vaginal sex, your partner might choose to use emergency contraception, like the morning after pill. This helps prevent pregnancy but does not protect against STIs. That is why it should not replace regular contraception.
What About STIs in Same-Sex Relationships?
Some people wrongly believe you cannot get an STI from same-sex sex. This is not true. STIs like gonorrhoea, chlamydia, herpes and HIV can spread through oral sex, anal sex, and even sharing sex toys. Here’s how to reduce risk:
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Use condoms or dental dams for oral and anal sex.
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Use plenty of lube for anal sex to help prevent tears.
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Clean and cover sex toys with condoms, and never share them without washing first.
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Get regular STI tests, especially if you have new or multiple partners.
How to Talk About Protection in Healthy Relationships
Talking about safer sex might feel awkward, but it shows respect and maturity in healthy relationships. Before sex, have an honest chat. Ask:
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What protection are we using?
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Do we both have condoms or dental dams?
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When did we last get tested for STIs?
Good communication makes sex safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
Where to Get Advice and Free Protection
You can get free condoms, lube and STI tests at sexual health clinics. Many clinics welcome everyone, including LGBTQ+ people, and offer confidential advice. You can also talk to your GP or check trusted websites like Brook, the NHS or LGBT-specific organisations for help.
Taking charge of contraception and safer sex is not something to feel shy about. It shows you are confident, mature and ready to respect yourself and your partners. Good sex should be safe sex – for everyone.