ru-ok? advice - staying safer with sex
Read our safe sex advice, and get links to further support.
The top 5 ways to stay safe
1. Make sure both of you consent
2. Always carry a condom/dental dam to protect against STIs
3. Always use contraception to prevent pregnancy
4. Avoid using substances when having sex – remember that you can’t give consent while under the influence of drugs, including alcohol
5. If you have unprotected sex and there’s a risk of pregnancy, remember you can get emergency contraception
Things to remember:
- around 80% of people with STIs have no symptoms, so it’s important to get tested regularly, especially if you have unprotected sex
- there are different types of contraception available, familiarise yourself and learn how to use them effectively
- if you’re under 25 you can get a c-card from us which gives you access to free condoms, femidoms and lube
- don't be afraid to seek out support if you think you may be pregnant, it helps to talk through options
Getting support
Visit Brighton & Hove Sexual Health & Contraception Service to find out where you can get local support, including LGBT+ support
You can also contact us and ask for our DASH team.
- Refer someone to the ru-ok? service
ru-ok? is a young people's substance use and sexual health service, offering free confidential advice, guidance, support for under 18s and their parents, carers or concerned others.