GAY & BISEXUAL MEN - Condoms and Safer sex

Sex is about pleasure, fun, intimacy and trust. Safer sex simply means having the knowledge and resources to have enjoyable and pleasurable sex safely.

Safer sex isn't just about wearing condoms and having regular check-ups, although these are great safer sex strategies, its understanding and using the various different options available that feel right for you to have enjoyable and pleasurable sex safely.

Feeling able and confident to talk to your partners about sex is just as important. Talking about sex can be difficult. It can feel awkward and embarrassing. Especially if you don't know the person very well yet or you're worried it will ruin the moment. But the more people feel confident talking about the kind of sex they enjoy it's likely to make sex more pleasurable!

Consent is the most important thing to talk about before having sex. Consent is agreeing and being happy to have sex with someone. Both people have to agree to have sex and show that they are willing to have sex. If you're ever unsure it's always best to ask if the person is happy to have sex. If someone is unconscious they are not able to consent, if someone is under the influence of drugs or alcohol they may not be able to consent to sex. Having sex with someone who doesn't want to have sex with you is against the law.

Remember sex is supposed to be mutually pleasurable and we shouldn't regret it afterwards. Some of the most important things to think about if you're considering having sex for the first time with someone are trust, respect and the kind of relationship you have with the person.

Content reproduced/adapted with permission from Steve Retson Project, NHS Greater Glasgow & Clyde