Sex and relationships

Safe sex is sexual contact that doesn’t involve the exchange of semen, vaginal fluids or blood between partners. If used correctly, condoms can dramatically reduce the risk of most sexually transmissible infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancy.

Condoms can be accessed free of charge independently via the E C-Card app if you’re aged 16-25 years old. Start by downloading the app, watch three short videos and complete a simple questionnaire. You will then be able to choose one of our convenient pick-up points across Essex, scan your unique QR code and discretely collect your FREE condoms.

If you’re under 16 years old and require contraception such as condoms then you will need to book an appointment at your local sexual health clinic or your GP. If you require support with this then ask school staff if you can have an appointment to see your School Nurse.

You must visit the Essex Sexual Health website, click on ‘Where to get help’, and then ‘Clinics.’ Choose from the list of services you are interested in i.e. contraception, pregnancy test, STI testing. You can then choose if you would like a telephone appointment or a clinic appointment. A map will identify the clinic that is nearest to you.

If you’ve had unprotected sex and don’t want to get pregnant, you can take the Emergency Hormonal Contraceptive (EHC) pill. It’s commonly known as the ‘Morning after Pill’ although this name is misleading as the pill can be taken up to 72 hours (three days) after having unprotected sex.

The EHC is available for free from Sexual Health Clinics, Urgent Care Centres and selected Pharmacies. It’s always a good idea to phone ahead to see if it’s available. EHC is more effective the sooner you take it, so act fast.

Only women can get emergency contraception

Emergency contraception shouldn’t be used as a regular contraceptive.

The Essex Sexual Health service can also advise you on testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases.

During puberty, you may have lots of emotions and sexual feelings. It’s normal for girls to think about girls in a sexual way, and for boys to think about boys in a sexual way. You don’t choose your sexuality; it chooses you and this is not something to feel ashamed or embarrassed about.

This link on sexuality offers information for young people who think they might be gay, lesbian or bisexual. It also includes information on sources of support, safer sex, coming out and dealing with bullying.

Talking to your children about sex, relationships, and safety can feel tricky to navigate, but it is important that you give your child the opportunity to do so. The NSPCC sex and relationships website offers support and guidance on how you can do this.

• The facts: the law and consenting to sex (Health for teens)
• The facts: condoms (Health for teens)
• How to use a condom (Essex Sexual Health Service)
• Sexuality (Childline)
• How to talk to children about sex and safety (NSPCC)