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When it comes to sex, there’s no such thing as a stupid question. The most important thing is that you get the information you need to get On Top.

So, if there’s anything that you need to know that hasn’t been handled elsewhere on this site, get in touch by sending us an email and we’ll respond through the site.

It’s good to get the professional view on these things, but it’s also important to get advice and guidance from mates and people your age, who might understand things from your point of view.

So, if you have any advice in response to the questions raised in this section, send it to us by email and we’ll post it on the site. Don’t worry you don’t need to leave your details if you don’t want to.

How do I get ‘the pill’?

You can speak to a Dr or Nurse at your local Sexual Health service (click here to see a full list) to see if any of these methods are suitable for you. Have a look at our contraception page too.

There are now 15 different forms of contraception to choose from so there is osmething to suite everybody. However please remember that apart from the condom, these methods will only protect you from unplanned pregnancy and not unwanted infections.

Why is LARC better than ‘the pill’?

LARC methods aren’t necessarily better but they are a very good option for someone who thinks they may not remember to take a pill each and everyday. Often unplanned pregnancy occurs when women have missed a period or have had vomiting or diarrhoea which lessen the effect of the pills protection. You can find more info on contraception here…

How do I get LARC?

You can speak to a Dr or Nurse at your local Sexual Health service (click here to find one) to see if any of these methods are suitable for you.  Have a look at our contraception page for more information on the choices available, or why not use this handy tool on the Brook website?

What is LARC?

“LARC” stands for Long Acting Reversible Contraception.  These are things like the Implant, The Injection and IUD (hormonal) and the IUD (Non hormonal).  They are also know as the coil. Did you know there are over 15 different types of contraception? Click to find one that’s right for you.

Can you get pregnant while you are on your period?

Yes, you can indeed get pregnant whilst on your period.  Also if you have a short period, because sperm can survive inside the body for up to 7 days, you are actually more likey to get pregnant at this time. Not something that everyone knows… Click here for more advice on pregnancy.

How do I know if I have Chlamydia?

Only a small number of people are lucky enough (if that’s what you can call it!) to get any symptoms – most people don’t get any, which makes it important to get checked out regularly by getting a ‘screen’. Click to get the facts on Chlamydia and STIs.

What are STIs?

For a full list of STI’s and their symptoms check out our STI and Testing page.

How do I protect myself from getting an STI?

Other than not having sex at all, the best way to protect yourself is by always using a condom. Even if you have a partner who suggest not using condoms – remember you are in charge of your own body.  Some infections are extremely unpleasant and may never go away completely. Now ask yourself, do you really want to take the risk?!

What do I do if I have an STI?

If you do have an STI you must follow the advice of the Dr or Nurse you see.  Do not have sex until the infection has cleared up and think very carefully next time you’re tempted to have unprotected sex with someone – so you don’t have to go through the whole thing again!

How can I check if I have an STI?

If you are concerned about having an STI try not to panic.  You must go to your nearest ISIS clinic or the GUM Service in Southport or Liverpool and get it checked out. You may feel a bit embarrassed and uncomfortable but you will not be judged by the staff there – they’re all really nice – and remember these service are completely confidential too. It would also be a good idea to talk to you partner about what has happened as they might be at risk, too. The staff at the GUM or the ISIS clinic will be able to advise you about how to go about this – just ask.

Do condoms completely protect you against STIs?

In the majority of cases yes (they’re about 98% effective, if they are used correctly), however you may still catch pubic lice as these live in the pubic hair region of the body and can also be on bedding and towels. Remember, getting to grips with condoms is a skill that requires practice – so don’t be afraid to grab a few and get used to them.

What are STIs?

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI’s) are passed on from person to person through any form of sexual contact.  If you have sex with someone who has an infection and you do not know about it there is a good chance that you may catch the infection too.  You cant tell by looking at someone whether they have anything.

You cannot get an infection by holding someones hand or kissing.  Some infections do not shown any signs or symptoms so if you thinkyou may have caught an STI itsimportant you get this checked out as soon as possible for peace of mind.  See out STI section for more information.

What do I do if the condom breaks?

If used correctly, condoms are the safest way to protect yourself and your partner from an STI and also help prevent pregnancy.  If the condom does break and you do not want to become pregnant you must  get the EHC (morning after pill) as soon as possible.  You can get this from any ISIS clinic or any of the community pharmacies listed on this website.

Where can I get free condoms?

You can get free condoms from any of the ISIS clinics or if you are 20 years old, or younger – anywhere that displays the C-Card Symbol. Look out for it, and click here to find a C-Card venue near you…

How do I use a condom?

It is really important that condoms are used correctly or they may not work…

Step one
Always check the date on the back of the condom pack.  If it’s past the date stated do not use.

Step two
Carefully open the pack by tearing down the zigzag edge carefully. Avoid catching the condom on peircings or long nails.

Step three
With the roll of the condom on the outside, carefully pinch the top of the condom so no air is trapped inside and roll the condom down to the base of the erect penis.

After ejaculation (cum) and whilst the penis is still erect from your partner holding the condom in place at the base of the penis.  Carefully remove the condom avoiding any spills wrap in tissue and put into a bin.  DO NOT flush down the toilet!!

When do most people have sex for the first time?

Despite what the media (and sometimes, our friends) may tell us, most young people do not have sex before they are 16 and more and more are waiting until the time is right for them. We’ve got a section on the site all about this, click here to check it out.

What do I do if my partner wants to have sex, but I don’t feel ready?

The decision to have sex for the first time is an important one.  Never give in to pressure and if your partner respects how you feel then they will wait until you are ready.

Also, taking drugs or using alcohol before having sex will definately change your viewpoint and you may end up doing something you will most certainly regret the next day.  Look after number one – thats you! Click here to read our “Sex for the 1st time” section.

How will I know if I’m ready to have sex?

This is a decision only you can make for yourself.  If it doesn’t feel right then you are probably not ready.

Is it safe to take the morning-after pill more than once?

The morning after pill (Emergency Hormonal Contraception) is for emergencies only and should not be considered as a permanent form of contraception. If you find you are having to request this regularly you need to think about a regular and safer form of contraception – check out the contraception section for more information.