Potential Risks for Unsafe Sexual Activity Include:

· Sexually transmitted diseases (Chlamydia, Gonorrhea)

· An incurable sexually transmitted disease (Herpes, Hepatitis B)

· A life-threatening sexually transmitted disease (AIDS)

· Health problems like cervical cancer or infertility

· An unplanned pregnancy

Steps to Safer Sex

1. Know Your Partners

· Have they ever used needles for drug use, tattooing, or body piercing?

· How many people have they had sex with in the past?

· Has your partner been tested for HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases? Have you?

· Will this be the only sex partner that each of you have?

2. Know the Risks of Alcohol and Drug Use

· Alcohol and drug use leads to poor decision-making around sex

· You may have casual sex when you are not prepared

· You may not use condoms even if they are available

· Using needles is a very effective way of spreading HIV and Hepatitis B and C to others

Safer Sex Checklist

· Know your sexual partner

· Limit the number of people you have sex with

· Avoid casual sex partners (especially when under the influence of alcohol or drugs)

· Negotiate safer sex with your partner. Be prepared to defend your decision to use protection. Discuss safer sex as a positive thing

· Be screened for sexually transmitted diseases, especially before starting a new sexual relationship. Have your partner do the same

· Know what's risky and what's not. Penetration or intercourse does not have to be the focus for sex

· Use condoms from start to finish, every time you have sex

Reprinted from Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Health Unit's website: www.wdghu.org.