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► Safer Sex

Sexual Health Quick Guide

Sex is a wonderful physical feeling and can make you feel very close to your partner, it can also be very fun.  However, its very important to know the risks of unprotected sex and to know how to protect yourself from STI's and HIV.

Quite often people become more sexually active during their time at university and with the incidences of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) on the increase in Scotland is is essential to practice safe sex.

At Stirling it couldn't be easier to get hold of information and advice on sexual health and how to avoid becoming infected. The Union Advice and Support Centre has a wealth of information for people of all sexualities which you can take away or browse through.

STIs come in a variety of forms, and some are more serious than others and can be transmitted in different ways. Here are a few examples:

   * HIV - A virus which is transmitted through blood and other bodily fluids. Its most often transmitted through unprotected penetrative sex. There is currently no cure for HIV, nor is there a vaccine so its very important you protect yourself and your partners by using a condom and plenty of lube.
   
   * Chlamydia & Gonorrhoea - these are bacterial infections. Chlamydia is possibly the most common STI amongst young people. They can be transmitted by oral and penetractive sex, and can live in the throat, penis, vagina and rectum. They often have no symptoms, but they are easily treated with antibiotics once detected.

   * Syphilis - Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is on the rise. Traditionally it was carried by sailors accross the continents. Today however, its commonly transmitted through oral sex and unprotected penetrative sex. Symptoms start with a single lesion at the site of infection, such as the vagina, penis or mouth. Second symptoms include a rash on your hands. Luckily modern treatments can get rid of the infection, but it must be detected early enough.

   * Parasites - parasites like scabies and crabs can be easily transmitted with any close body contact.

- Signs & Symptoms

Remember that some STI's dont have any signs or symptoms, HIV for instance may not have any symptoms for several years. However, theres a list of things you can look out for which may indicate a sexually transmitted infection:

    * Itching around the genitals or anus
    * Discharge from the Penis or Anus
    * Unusually smelly or coloured discharge from the vagina
    * Pain or swelling in the genitals or anus
    * Rashes, sores or blisters on the genitals

Naturally, some activities are higher risk than others, so here is a short list to give you some pointers about safety. Its also very important to remember that you should only do what you feel comfortable with, so never feel pressured into doing anything you don’t feel comfortable with.


Mutual Masturbation and Fingering – touching each other is relatively low risk as long as no body fluids enter the other person. Be careful when inserting fingers into your partner though as sharp nails or being too aggressive can cause damage to the delicate vaginal/anal lining – use lots of lubricant and keep those nails short. Wash your hands in between as well to be extra hygienic. You can also wear latex gloves or place a condom over your fingers.


Sex Toys – low risk so long as toys are not shared between partners. If you do intend to do this, cover them with a condom or, at least, wash them in hot soapy water.


Rimming – stimulating the anus with your mouth and tongue. This is generally low risk, although make sure that the anus is clean and free of any cuts or sores. Use a dental dam or a piece of non-microwaveable Clingfilm to be extra safe.


Male Oral Sex – low risk for HIV, medium risk for other STIs. You can use flavoured condoms on his penis to be extra safe, particularly if there are any cuts or sores on the penis or in your mouth. At the very least, avoid getting any pre-cum or cum in your mouth as this is the most likely source of infection.


Female Oral Sex – low risk for HIV, medium risk for other STIs – however, it is best to avoid oral sex during her period to prevent contact with any blood. Use a dental dam or a piece of non-microwaveable Clingfilm to be extra safe.


Penetrative Vaginal Sex – potentially high risk for STIs, HIV and unwanted pregnancy if a condom is not used. Always use condoms for penetrative vaginal sex as small amounts of pre-cum are released long before orgasm and this can contain sperm and infectious bugs, including HIV.


Penetrative Anal Sex - potentially high risk for STIs and HIV if condoms are not used. Always use condoms for penetrative anal sex as small amounts of pre-cum are released long before orgasm and this can contain infectious bugs, including HIV. Also use plenty of water-based lubricant as the anus does not produce any natural lubricant.  


- Getting Checked over

Its a good idea to get yourself checked out every six months, there is a sexual Health Clinic in Stirling city centre. This facility in Orchard House health centre does offer LGBT services

Orchard House Health Centre
Acute Operating Division of NHS Forth Valley
GUM Clinic - Sexual Health Clinic
Union Street
Stirling
Scotland
FK8 1PH

Central Booking Line 01786 433697
Monday - Friday  8am - 11.30am

Sexual Health Adviser Helpline 01324 613944
Monday - Friday 9am  - 12.15pm

Airthrey Park Medical Centre, located on campus, also run free sexual health clinics every morning by appointment and all cases are completely confidential.

- Emergencies

Accidents happen. Its unfortunate, but no matter how prepared you are, sometimes a condom splits or tears or some other mishap causes you some dangerous exposure. In these situations, its a good idea to get emergency help within 48 hours! You can be prescribed PEP (post exposure prophylaxis) for HIV which could potentially save your life!


- Condoms:

Condoms are between 85-95% effective, if used properly, if in doubt read the instructions and take your time. For extra protection you can also use spermicide. Do not use oil based lubricant (such as Vaseline) as they can cause a condom to split and degrade within just a few minutes. This is probably the best type of contraception for anyone who practices casual sex or is uncertain about using other methods of contraception.
Condoms also provide protection against HIV, many STIs, genital infections and cervical cancer. Remember to use condoms which carry the British Standards Institution ‘Kite Mark’ and check the use-by dates. If you or your partner are allergic to laxex, the Union can provide some non-latex condoms.

Condoms are readily available for free throughout the university, and are available from the Union office,  from student support services located on the 4Y corridor of the Cottrell building or from Airthrey Park Medical Centre.