Looking after your sexual health starts with informed choices, clear communication and access to reliable advice. While no precaution removes every risk, you can take steps to reduce the chance of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy. This guide covers the essentials without judgement.
Start with consent and communication
Everyone involved should freely agree to what is happening, without pressure or fear. Consent is ongoing: agreeing once does not mean agreeing to everything, and anyone can change their mind at any time. If someone is asleep, unconscious or too intoxicated to make a decision, they cannot give consent. If you are unsure, stop.
Talk about boundaries, protection, contraception and sexual health before intimacy. You never have to do something you are uncomfortable with, and a partner should respect your decision to pause or stop.
Understand what protection can and cannot do
Condoms help reduce the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancy. They do not eliminate every risk. Use them consistently and follow the instructions on the packet. Check the expiry date and that the packaging is intact, and choose condoms bearing a CE mark or BSI Kitemark.
Barrier protection, such as condoms or dental dams, can also help reduce STI exposure during oral sex. A sexual health clinic can advise you on suitable options and their correct use.
Make a contraception plan
If pregnancy is possible and you do not want to become pregnant, think about contraception before you need it. A GP, pharmacist or sexual health clinician can help you compare options and choose one that suits your health and circumstances.
Do not assume a method that prevents pregnancy also protects against STIs. Discuss both kinds of protection when making your plan.
Make STI testing part of looking after your health
Speak to a sexual health clinic about testing if you have had sex without barrier protection, a condom has broken or slipped, or you are worried about an exposure. You can also discuss testing with a new partner rather than making assumptions about each other's status.
Different infections have different testing windows. Contact a clinic for advice on when to test and whether a repeat test is needed; do not delay seeking help because you think it is too early. If you have symptoms or think you may have an STI, get assessed and follow the clinic's advice about avoiding sex or using protection while you wait for results or complete treatment.
If a condom breaks or protection was not used
Act promptly rather than waiting for symptoms or your next period. A pharmacist or sexual health clinic can advise about emergency contraception if pregnancy is possible. Depending on the option, emergency contraception may be available within three to five days after sex, but the sooner you seek advice, the better.
If there may have been an HIV exposure, seek urgent assessment for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). It needs to be started as soon as possible and within 72 hours. Contact a sexual health clinic urgently, or attend A&E if the clinic is closed. Do not wait for a test result before asking for help.
Emergency contraception does not protect against STIs. Ask about testing and follow-up care as well.
Do not ignore discomfort or symptoms
Stop if you experience pain or feel uncomfortable. Seek medical advice for persistent pain, unusual discharge, sores, a rash, unexpected bleeding or discomfort when passing urine. These symptoms can have different causes, so avoid diagnosing yourself or relying on a product to treat them.
Know where to get support
NHS sexual health clinics offer advice, STI testing and contraception support. You can ask questions even if you have no symptoms. If you have experienced sexual assault or coercion, a sexual assault referral centre can provide specialist medical care and support. Call 999 if you are in immediate danger.
The takeaway
Safer sex is about consent, communication and practical health choices. Plan your protection, get personalised advice when needed, and act quickly after a possible exposure. Your comfort and wellbeing matter at every stage.
This article is general health information, not a substitute for individual medical advice. Speak to a qualified healthcare professional about your circumstances.