Safe Sex

Putting condoms in a medical kit acts as a reminder to practice safe sex at all times and ensures you have a good quality condom should the need arise.

‘Safe sex’ is wise with all new partners. Use a condom from start to finish. Water based lubricant such as KY jelly must be used to help prevent condom breakage.

Be aware that alcohol has ruined many good intentions for safer sex. It only takes one sexual encounter to contract infections that may be long lasting. Not all sexually transmitted infections (STI) are prevented by condom use. Genital warts and the sores of herpes virus for example may be outside the area covered by the condom. Many areas of the world have higher rates of STI including antibiotic resistant strains.

If you have had unprotected sex or suffered sexual assault in an area with high HIV prevalence it might be advised to attend a specialised clinic for post exposure prophylaxis (HIV-PEP).