Having protected sex
Having protected sex means taking the necessary precautions before you start having sex and during the time that you want to have sex so that you can avoid contracting HIV, sexually transmitted infections and unplanned pregnancy.
As an adolescent before you start having sex with your boyfriend or girlfriend you should go for an HIV test to know if you are HIV positive or negative. You should also go for STI screening to know if you or your partner has gonorrhea, syphilis and candidiasis among others.
If you are just starting a relationship with someone, it is good to tell them about your past sexual relationships so that both of you can be able to make informed and proper decisions. No one should force you to have sex before going for HIV testing or STI screening. In addition, you should always use a male or female condom whenever you are having sex. Make sure you follow the instructions when you are using any type of condom, either female or male.
When you want to have sex, it is important to have a fore play so that the girl’s vagina should be wet enough to avoid friction which can cause sores during penetration which can further increase the risk of contracting HIV and STIs.
A condom is already lubricated to avoid friction during penetration and to prevent the condom from bursting. However, some girls do not get wet faster and in these instances you can use another lubricant to moisturize their vagina so that the condom should not burst during sex.
As an adolescent you should always avoid drinking alcohol excessively and using drugs because this limits your ability to make informed decisions when you have sexual feelings and the time that you want to have sex with your boyfriend or girlfriend.
For more information, call Tithandizane Helpline toll free line 116 or visit your nearest Youth friendly health facility or visit any YONECO Drop in Centre.
