Playin' It Safe

Because alcohol lowers a person’s inhibitions, having just one drink can change someone’s perception of a situation. Some people may take more risks with their sexual behaviour if alcohol is involved – this includes having sex when they might otherwise not. It also means that they are less likely to use a condom when they do have sex.

Taking drugs can also lead someone to take more risks because they make them act in ways they wouldn’t normally.

Not using a condom when having sex could mean risking an unplanned pregnancy or Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Remember to use a condom if you are sexually active, as it is the only safe form of protection against unplanned pregnancies and STIs. 

More than 70% of young men and 74% of young women do not have sexual intercourse before the age of 16. However, of those who do have sex, 40% had not used contraception on at least one occasion because they were under the influence of alcohol.

If someone is drunk and can’t look out for themselves properly they are at risk of being taken advantage of sexually. Their ‘judgment of character’ can also be affected.

If they do decide to try to use a condom, being drunk means that they are more likely to mess up putting it on. Condoms can get easily weakened and torn by fingernails, fail to get unrolled properly and someone can forget to squeeze the air out of the teat first. All these things can cause condoms to break, burst of slip off during sex and put a person’s sexual health at risk.

If you have had unprotected sex or are worried your method of contraception may have failed, you can find out where to get emergency contraception and STI testing here.

For more information about alcohol and drugs visit:
Talk To Frank - free and confidential drugs information and advice.
Drink Aware - provides information about the effects of alcohol on your life and lifestyle.
Alcohol, Know Your Limits – a website about the dangers of excess drinking and knowing daily limits.
Worcestershire Substance Misuse Action Team - all you need to know about drugs, alcohol and where to get help and advice in Worcestershire.

Or you can always Ask Us A Question