FACTS
- What percent of young people who have had sex, said they did not use contraception on at least one occasion while drinking?
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40% of young people who have had sex, said they did not use contraception on at least one occasion while drinking. As a young person you need to be aware of the risks you are taking by having unprotected sex.
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- What would you advise a friend to do if they told you they had had unprotected sex?
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Contact their local clinic/GP who will be able to give them emergency contraception, advice and check for STI’s and discuss further contraception options available.
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- Is sex safer when you have been drinking?
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No. It is not a good idea to have sex when you have been drinking as alcohol affects your thinking and decision making. Many young people “forget” to use a condom when they have had a drink, or do not use them correctly.
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- Young people who have sex when they have been drinking can wake up the next day feeling:
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Regret. Because of the way alcohol effects the way we think, somebody we really fancy at the end of a night out may seem a lot less attractive the next day and you will really regret it. Even if you like the person you may go further than you want to because of alcohol use.
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- Unprotected sex can lead to?
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STI's, unplanned pregnancy and regret. There are a number of sexually transmitted diseases some of which have no symptoms and some which can last a life time.
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- Who do 44% of teenagers not trust sexual health advice from?
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The answer is their friends. People often lie about their sexual “adventures” claiming to be more experienced than they are. Most young people get the best advice from an adult they trust such as a parent, teacher, doctor or nurse.
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- How soon must emergency contraception (morning after pill) be taken after unprotected sex?
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You have up to 72 hours to take emergency contraception although it is more effective the sooner you take it after having unprotected sex. You should also ask for an STI screen if you have put yourself at risk of infection. To get advice on emergency contraception in South Tyneside contact the advice line on 0191 451 6180, or NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
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- What is the legal age for sex?
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The legal age for sex is 16 whether you’re gay or straight. Many people don’t feel ready at 16 and wait longer. Just because it’s legal doesn’t mean you have too!
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- What is the safest way to avoid STI’s and pregnancy?
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If you're going to have sex it’s important to use a reliable form of contraception as well as a condom. To double up is the best way to prove you care about yourself and the person you’re with. BUT as with life nothing is 100%
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- In South Tyneside how many young people have Chlamydia?
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1 in 10 young people are affected by Chlamydia as the most common STI, there are often no symptoms and it can be easily tested for and treated. There are many services that can advise and provide Chlamydia screening and C2 card registration and direct you to the right services.
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