Short messages on Sexual health and Safety issues from Respect Yourself, the guidance site for young people to help make good decisions in life.
Violence against women, we can stop it! by European Parliament
If someone forces you to do something you do not want to do of a sexual nature, it is never your fault and it is not OK. You should speak to someone you trust if this has happened to you so that you can get help and support.
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Like thumb heart love affection image by geralt
“Sexual consent” means a person willingly agrees to have sex or engage in a sexual activity – and that they are free and capable to make their own decision. Sex without consent is rape or sexual assault.
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Worried girl isolated and waiting image by RyanMcGuire
If someone is trying to sexually exploit you, they may try to isolate you from your friends or family by saying they are the only person you need, that your family won’t understand or you’ll be in trouble.
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how painful it is by Sophia Louise
People who exploit young people for sex want them to think they are a friend, or a boyfriend or girlfriend, to gain their trust to get power over them. They might use bribes, threats, humiliation and violence to get this power.
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Condoms contraception image by Anqa
You can get pregnant even if you are breastfeeding your baby, and before your periods have restarted. If you are having sex and you don’t want to get pregnant you should start using contraception from three weeks after your baby is born, even if you are breastfeeding.
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Playful couple image by juanerasmus85
There is no evidence that taking the contraceptive Pill causes weight gain. Some women put may put on weight whether they are taking the Pill or not.
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Playful couple image by juanerasmus85
Some people are allergic to latex, the type of rubber that some condoms are made of. If you are allergic, your Pharmacist can help you choose non-latex ones.
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Playful couple image by juanerasmus85
If both partners have HIV, you should still use a condom. Evidence shows that there may be different strains of HIV. If you and your partner are both diagnosed with HIV it may not be the same strain, so condoms are important to prevent cross-infection and the passing of other sexually transmitted infections.
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Playful couple image by juanerasmus85
Condoms come in a range of sizes. If the condoms you’ve used were too small or big, look out for different sizes or ask your pharmacist or a doctor or nurse at a sexual health clinic for more information. If you’re not sure about the size, try one on alone before you have sex to see how it feels.
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Couple love image by AdinaVoicu
All contraceptive methods can stop you getting pregnant, but some have other benefits, too. Condoms can help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs), while the IUS (hormone-based coil) can give you lighter periods, or even stop periods altogether.
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