Page 301 - Keys To Community College Success

well as those of others with whom you may be involved. Analyze sexual
issues carefully. Look at potential effects of your choices, deter-
mine what rewards hold value for you, and consider what
calculated risks can move you safely toward those
rewards. Ask questions like the following:

■ Is this what I really want? Does it fit with my
values?
■ Do I feel ready or do I feel pressured? Does
this choice cause stress for me?
■ Is this the right person/moment/situation? Does Wellness and Stress Management
my partner truly care for me and not just for what
we might be doing? Will this enhance or damage our
emotional relationship?
■ Do I have what I need to prevent pregnancy and exposure to STIs? If not, is having
unprotected sex worth taking the chance?

Sex needs to be a mutual decision. If you feel pressured and uncomfortable, the
time is not right.

Birth Control

Using birth control is a choice that helps you decide when and if you want to be a
parent. However, it is not for everyone. For some, using any kind of birth control goes
against religious or personal beliefs. Others may want to have children. But many
sexually active people who do not want children at the moment choose one or more
methods of birth control.
Evaluate the pros and cons of each option for yourself and your partner. Consider cost,
reliability, comfort, and protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Commu-
nicate with your partner, then make a choice together. For more information, check your
library, the Internet, or a bookstore; talk to your doctor; or ask a counselor at the student
health center or local Planned Parenthood office. Key 10.8 describes established methods,
with effectiveness percentages and STI prevention based on proper and regular use.

Sexually Transmitted Infections

STIs spread through sexual contact. This includes intercourse or other sexual activity
(oral or anal) that involves contact with the genitals. All STIs are highly contagious. The
only birth control methods that offer protection are the male and female condoms (latex
or polyurethane only), which prevent skin-to-skin contact. Have a doctor examine any
irregularity or discomfort as soon as you detect it. Key 10.9 describes common STIs.
AIDS and HIV

The most serious STI is AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome), caused by the
human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). AIDS has no cure and can result in death. Med-
ical science continues to develop drugs to combat AIDS and related illnesses. Although
the drugs can slow the progression of the infection and extend life expectancy, there is
currently no known cure.
People acquire HIV through sexual relations, by sharing hypodermic needles for
drug use, and by receiving infected blood transfusions. You cannot become infected
unless one of those fluids is involved. Therefore, it is unlikely you can contract HIV from
toilet seats, hugging, kissing, or sharing a glass. Other than not having sex at all, using
condoms (latex only) is the best defense against AIDS. Avoid petroleum jelly, which can
destroy latex. Be wary of “safe sex fatigue,” where young and healthy people get tired of
being vigilant about using condoms for every sexual encounter. Although some people
dislike using condoms, using them is a small price to pay for preserving your life.

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