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Be prepared and be in control"But I'm embarrassed buying condoms". You may feel embarrassed, but the shop assistant is used to people buying condoms and won't even think about it. In any case, you can always get them out of a vending machine or at a supermarket. Once you have bought them a few times, it gets a lot easier. Sometimes, buying condoms abroad can be difficult. It's better to get them before you go. In some countries, including the UK, condoms are provided free of charge at young persons clinics and at family planning, genitourinary medicine or sexual health clinics. Be prepared. If you're likely to be in a situation where you may have sex, make sure that you have some condoms with you, whether you are a man or a woman. These days both sexes have to take responsibility for safer sex. "How do I discuss using a condom with my partner?" Talking about safer sex doesn't have to be difficult. Once you mention the subject, you will probably find your partner is as keen to talk about it as you are. When you're both undressing you might make a joke about it: "Your condom or mine?". Or, "Let's use a condom. Better safe than sorry". Be in control. Alcoholic drink (or drugs), even in small amounts, can affect how you behave and might cause you to do something you really regret later. Stay in control! "Condoms interrupt the flow of our love-making." The answer is to make putting on a condom part of the fun, like the couple below! If you think condoms aren't fun, have a look at the condomania web site.
"What about the female condom? Does it prevent STI?". We're not talking about earrings here! The female condom minimises the risk of STI if properly used. The female condom is like a plastic bag which lines the vagina and has two rings to keep it in place. One ring, at the closed end, fits deep inside the vagina. The other, at the open side, covers the outer lips. If it moves around a bit during sex don't worry - this is quite normal and safe. It is important you make sure your partner's penis goes inside the bag and not down the side. Also, don't attempt to re-use it. Wrap it in a tissue and throw it in the bin, not down the toilet. Used properly the female condom is very strong and offers good protection against STI. A sexual health or family planning clinic can show you how to fit and use it properly. There are also instructions on the web. [MEW] January 2008
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