Considering Where to Have Sex
Sex can be fun, but there are risks that come with it. One of those risks is catching, or passing on, a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI).
Lots of people don't get symptoms. So you, or your partner, might have and STI and not know.
Having safer sex isn't about having less sex. It isn't about having fewer partners. It's about stopping the spread of STIs and keeping everyone safe.
Find out more below.
Lots of people don't get symptoms. So you, or your partner, might have and STI and not know.
Having safer sex isn't about having less sex. It isn't about having fewer partners. It's about stopping the spread of STIs and keeping everyone safe.
Find out more below.
Getting consent
Whatever type of sex you are having, where you have it can affect consent. You might be happy kissing on the couch, but not having sex there.
You should check with your partner(s) before doing anything new. It's good to make sure that they don't want to move somewhere else.
For more information, please see our page on Consent.
You should check with your partner(s) before doing anything new. It's good to make sure that they don't want to move somewhere else.
For more information, please see our page on Consent.
Talking about it properly
If you want to have sex somewhere new, you should talk to your partner(s). Telling them where you want to have sex is a good start. It can also be helpful to tell them why.
You might want to have sex somewhere that is:
Wherever it is, it's best to talk it through before you start anything.
You might want to have sex somewhere that is:
- Handy
- Private
- A turn-on, like a place where you might get caught
- Special, like a hotel room
Wherever it is, it's best to talk it through before you start anything.
Setting the scene
You should make sure that the place you are having sex is:
It is also a good idea to make sure you have access to what you need.
This might include:
Whatever you need, you should make sure you have it before you start.
- Secure
- Private
- Comfy
- Free from interruptions
It is also a good idea to make sure you have access to what you need.
This might include:
- Condoms
- Lube
- Sex Toys
- Towels
- Pillows
- Tissues
- Music
Whatever you need, you should make sure you have it before you start.
Having public sex
Dogging and cruising are the most common type of public sex. During public sex, you are in a vulnerable position. This makes it more risky than sex in private spaces. To stay safe:
Remember you can withdraw consent at any time. If you feel uncomfortable, it is better to listen to your instincts.
For more information, visit the Terrence Higgins Trust website.
- Try to stay aware of your surroundings.
- Avoid taking too many valuables. If possible, keep what you do take in a secure place.
- Take your own supplies, like condoms and lube. You don't know if a partner you pick up will have them.
Remember you can withdraw consent at any time. If you feel uncomfortable, it is better to listen to your instincts.
For more information, visit the Terrence Higgins Trust website.