SEXUAL HEALTH 101
“
”
I think this is a message that I didn’t hear a lot but if you want to wait to have sex, then wait. There are tons of people on campus that are waiting, be it for marriage, someone special, a good situation, whatever — you just generally hear about them less. Don’t feel pressured. If you are in a good relationship and want to wait, your partner should respect that. If you don’t want to wait, that’s cool too. Do what you will be happiest with in the end.
No matter your gender or sexuality, whether this is your first or hundredth time, your sexual health should always be a priority. You’re probably sick of hearing about how you should always use condoms (which you should), but there is so much more to your sexual health than just having protected sex. Here is a quick breakdown of a few things to consider in your journey to figuring out what you like. YES, WEAR CONDOMS. BUT WHAT TYPE? Although mainstream media might only focus on the ‘classic’ external condom with little lubrication, there is an entire world
— E M I LY G U B S K I
of physical barriers out there. For starters, the material: latex or non-latex? Then, the shape: ribbed or smooth? No need to stop at external condoms; you can also consider internal condoms. They are not as popular as external condoms, but they are just as effective and some people prefer them. Internal condoms (also known as vaginal condoms) can be inserted long before a sexual encounter. One of their major benefits is providing extra coverage in the surrounding area of the vulva or anus which offers greater protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Yet, not all sex is penetrative. Dental dams (a rectangular sheet of latex that can be made GUIDE TO UBC | 95
