10 Mega Myths About Sex

Not true – People taking part in most pornography are paid actors and they’re doing things to entertain the people watching it.

Often, the things that happen all the time in porn aren’t really common in every day sex, but watching lots of porn can make people believe they are.

The way porn stars look is often very different to real life too.

Not true  – The decision to have sex is not about what other people are doing. Having sex is a personal choice and just because you have done it before, doesn’t mean you have to do it again.

If you don’t feel ready, you’re not ready. You may not feel ready until you meet someone you trust and are comfortable with, and it’s the next step in your relationship at a time that’s right for both of you.

 

Not true– The decision to have sex is a joint one. You might believe your girlfriend is on the pill or taking other contraception, but this is only effective if taken correctly.

Also, the only way to protect against a sexually transmitted infection (STI) is by using a condom.

Not true– Anyone who has unprotected oral, vaginal and anal sex can catch an STI, so it’s always best to practice safe sex.

It’s not always possible to tell if someone has an STI, and they might not even realise themselves if they don’t have any symptoms.

Yearly tests are recommended, or each time you want to sleep with a different partner.

Not true- There are lots of myths around having sex, buts that’s exactly what they are – myths!

If you have any unprotected sex at any time, you are at risk of getting pregnant.

Not true –There is no way of being certain that your partner doesn’t have an STI unless you both have been tested.

Before you consider having sex, it’s important to talk to your partner about a full STI screen to make sure you both know for certain.

Condoms are the best protection for you both against STIs.

Not true– Condoms come in all different sizes and latex- free condoms are also available if you have a latex allergy.

If you struggle to use condoms, take time to practice putting them on so you feel more comfortable with using them.

Not true – Before a boy ejaculates, there’s sperm in the pre-ejaculatory fluid (sometimes called pre-come), which leaks out when he gets an erection.

It only takes one sperm to get a girl pregnant. If you have unprotected sex, you’re at risk of pregnancy and of catching an STI.

True – When you’re drunk or under the influence of drugs, it’s hard to make smart decisions.

Alcohol and drugs can make you take risks, such as having sex before you’re ready, or having sex with someone you don’t trust.

You’re more likely to regret having sex if you do it when you’re drunk. You may also be at risk of a sexual assault and rape. If you’re too drunk, you can’t legally consent to sex.

Not true  – This is a common misconception due to the nickname for the emergency hormonal contraception pill being the ‘morning after pill’.

The emergency contraception pill can be given up to 5 days after unprotected sex, although the sooner it’s taken the better.

If you’re worried you have missed this time frame, there are other options available, so speak to your school nurse.

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