Matte Stories & PSA
Matte Stories
Sun, Sand and STI: A Traveler’s Guide to Safer Sex
Vacations are about being carefree and leaving your worries behind, about trying new things and meeting new people. For some, romance may also be on the itinerary. But even if you have no intention of becoming romantically involved or having sex while you’re gone, it’s important to remember that sex comes with risks the world over – and it’s better to be prepared before you leave than to find yourself unprepared after you arrive.
Consider the following tips from www.sexualityandu.ca:
Contraception:
When traveling, it’s important to bring your regular method of contraception with you even if you don’t think you’ll need it. If you don’t use a regular method of contraception, you may want to pack condoms or choose another method before you leave. You may also want to consider picking up emergency contraception (“morning-after” pills) from a pharmacy or healthcare professional. Remember, depending on where you’re traveling, it could be very difficult to find contraception once you’re there.
Women who take birth-control pills should make sure to pack enough for the entire trip. If you’re taking a plane to reach your destination, remember to carry at least one pill pack in your purse or carry-on luggage. This way, your pills are easily accessible if you need them on the plane or a stopover, and they won’t get lost even if your luggage does.
Sexually Transmitted Infections:
Whether traveling or at home, it is always important to use condoms to prevent Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Condoms are the best way to prevent STIs, but there is no such thing as 100 percent safe sex. Sometimes condoms break or slip off, and they are not as effective at preventing Herpes and Human Papillomavirus (HPV), two STIs that are spread by skin-to-skin contact. Still, if you’re going to have sex, condoms offer by far the best protection, so pack a full supply before you leave for your trip.
Men may also want to consider using a condom for protection during oral sex, as it also carries some risk of spreading STIs. Women can also protect themselves and their partner from STIs while receiving oral sex by using a dental dam, which is a thin square of latex that acts as a barrier. Effective dental dams can also be made by cutting and unrolling a male condom.
Like other diseases and infections, the rates of sexually transmitted infections vary from place to place, so you may want to do your homework before you go. The World Health Organization and Health Canada are good resources for travel advisories and health information for travelers. You can also learn more about preventing STIs and unplanned pregnancy at www.sexualityandu.ca.
Have Fun and Stay Safe:
Vacations are a time to be carefree and enjoy yourself, but try not to let the excitement (or a few too many margaritas) cloud your judgment when it comes to making decisions that can affect your health and your future.
Last Modified: October 1, 2008
