Safer Sex
Having information on safer sex can contribute to making safe and informed decisions that contribute to positive sex-related outcomes and minimizes risk of unintended pregnancy and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs).
Alcohol and/or Drug Use
Alcohol use and/or drug use combined with sexual activity increases the risk of unsafe sex and health harms, such as:
- your ability to consent
- sexual transmitted infections
- unintended pregnancy
- sexual assault
- child pornography
- emotional/social/physical impact of posting sexual images online
When drinking in settings where there is potential for sexual experiences, be mindful of ensuring your drink stays with you. Having a friend around when you are out, or establishing a buddy system, can help to keep you safe when you are drinking or engaged in drug use.
Contraception
There are many different types of birth control methods available. You may wish to discuss options with your doctor in order to make an informed decision on what will work best for you.
Contraception will significantly reduce your risk of unintended pregnancy and some forms of contraception will protect you and your partner(s) against STIs.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
One aspect of sexual health and safe sex concerns understanding and practicing healthy behaviours that will protect you and a partner from sexual transmitted infections (that can cause potentially serious health problems if left untreated).
It is important when entering into a sexual relationship, however brief, to decide together how to best avoid the likelihood of contracting an STI. Risks of contracting an STI increase when measures for protection are not taken, particularly when drug and/or alcohol use impact your ability to make safe decisions.
Unintended Pregnancy
Vaginal intercourse may result in pregnancy.
If you find yourself or your partner pregnant unexpectedly, know that there are options in Canada that can support decision-making about whether to continue with the pregnancy or not.
There is no generally accepted safe limit of alcohol or drug use during pregnancy.
Consent
Sexual activity is only legal when all parties consent.
Consent is defined in Canada's Criminal Code in s. 273.1(1), as the voluntary agreement to engage in the sexual activity in question.
The law focuses on what the person was actually thinking and feeling at the time of the sexual activity. A person has the right to say “no” and be heard at any time. The age of consent is critical to know.
For More Information:
For more information on contraception, safer sex, unintended pregnancy, consent, STIs and/or what to do if you or a friend needs help on the topic of removing pictures or information from the internet:
