Using a condom (male or female) correctly and consistently when you have sex will prevent the transmission of most STIs including HIV. However, there are also several things that you can do to make sex safer.

Be prepared

• Discuss with your partner before you have sex how you will both protect yourselves.
• Become familiar with how to use condoms.
• Have a supply of condoms ready (these are free from family planning and sexual health clinics).
• There are lots of choices of condoms so try a different one if you are not happy with the ones you use now.
• Learn about how infections are spread, what symptoms to look for, and where to go for help if you are worried.

Take action

• Have a routine check up at a sexual health clinic (free!)
• If you or your partner have symptoms or think you might have an infection seek advice before you have any more sex.
• Tell your partner if you have an infection so they can be treated too.