Whether you’re sexually active, thinking about it, or just curious, it’s your body, your rules and you deserve real info without the awkward vibes.
What Is Safe Sex?
Safe sex is about protecting yourself and your partner(s) from:
STIs (Sexually Transmissible Infections)
Unplanned pregnancies
Emotional harm from feeling pressured or unsafe
It’s also about consent, boundaries, and feeling safe enough to say yes, no, or not yet.
Safe Sex Tools (aka: Your Toolkit)
Here’s what helps keep sex safer and smarter:
Condoms: The OG of safe sex. External (aka “male”) condoms go on a penis. Internal (aka “female”) condoms go inside a vagina. Both protect against STIs and pregnancy.
Dams (dental dams): Thin, flexible sheets that act as a barrier during oral sex over genitals.
Lube: Makes things smoother and reduces friction (which lowers the risk of tears or breakage). Water-based or silicone lube is best with condoms!
Regular STI Testing: Quick, confidential and often free. Knowing your status is part of taking care of yourself and others.
Birth Control: Pills, implants, IUDs, etc. prevent pregnancy but don’t protect against STIs. Using both condoms AND contraception = double protection.
Consent: Always! Every Time!
Sex should never feel pressured, forced, or uncomfortable. Consent means:
Freely given (not guilted or manipulated)
Informed (you know what you’re agreeing to)
Reversible (you can change your mind at any time)
Enthusiastic (it’s a genuine yes—not a maybe)
Specific (saying yes to one thing doesn’t mean saying yes to everything)
Real Talk: What If You’re Not Ready?
That’s more than okay. You don’t owe anyone sex—ever. Your choices, your timing, your pace.
Being ready means:
- You want to, not just feel like you “should”
- You’re able to talk openly with your partner
- You feel safe, informed and in control
Where to Get Support or Info:
Drop into Nimbin Youth: We’ve got condoms, info and a space to chat.
Talk to your local health centre or GP
1800 My Options (1800 696 784)
Family Planning Australia offer confidential advice (1300 658 886)
Lismore Sexual Health Service (02) 6620 2980)
Online:
www.fpnsw.org.au (Family Planning Australia)
www.playsafe.health.nsw.gov.au (Play Safe)
Sex should never leave you confused, scared, or hurt. Safe sex is about feeling respected, ready and informed. You deserve that!
Got questions? Come see us 💜
