Talk to your partner(s) about what you feel comfortable doing sexually. ....
Talk to your partner(s) about what you feel comfortable doing sexually. Sometimes we may feel pressured into doing something that we don't want to do - but the bottom line is that it's your body, and you have the right to decide.
Practice putting on condoms before you get in a situation when you may need them. There are different brands, sizes, and shapes of latex condoms available - find out which ones you like best. Try putting on condoms with the help of your partner(s) when you are having sex.
Have lots of condoms and lube in handy places - by the bed, in the bathroom, in your jacket pocket, with you when you go out . . . wherever!
Being in a relationship is no guarantee of safety from HIV infection. Talk to your partner(s) about safer sex.
Drugs and alcohol may enhance your sexual experience, help you to relax, and reduce inhibitions. But think about the ways that drugs and alcohol may affect your ability to have safer sex. It's okay to have a good time, just take care of yourself.
If you're HIV positive, find out what you can do to remain healthy contact your local AIDS organization for a list of doctors and other resources to help you take care of your health.
If you had unsafe sex in the past, don't beat yourself up over it. Instead, try to think about what it was that made the situation risky for you. That way, you can try to make sure that you don't do it again. You may find it easier to talk with someone about the unsafe sex you've had: you can call or visit ACT to speak with a counsellor, or you can speak with an ACT outreach volunteer out in the community.
Talk with your friends about safer sex. The more we begin to feel comfortable talking about safer sex, the easier it will be to insist on safer sex. Be the one to start talking about safer sex when you meet a new sexual partner: chances are they're thinking about it, too. They'll be glad that you think enough of them, and yourself, to be safe.
Find a doctor that you feel comfortable with. You should be able to talk to your doctor about the fact that you have sex with men, so you can be open about your sexual health concerns.
For more information about Safer Sex call the AIDS and Sexual Health InfoLine:
Toll free: 1-800-668-2437
Toronto: 416-392-2437
To find a community-based AIDS organization in your area, visit the Community Support page of this website.
Reproduced with permission of the AIDS Committee of Toronto (ACT):
www.actoronto.org
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