“The sun is shining, the drinks are flowing and you’re ready for a hot summer but first, make sure to look after your sexual health and wellbeing, and here’s how!

Sexual Health Support
Making positive choices about contraception and sexual health is important not just for your physical health, but for your general wellbeing too.

Drug and Alcohol Advice

Drugs and alcohol often increase the chances of you having unprotected sex and can affect your ability to effectively communicate.

If you know you’re likely to drink or take drugs, here are some tips on how to stay safe this summer:

• Eat first if you’re planning to drink
• Space out your drinks and try to alternate alcoholic drinks with water
• Don’t accept drinks from people you don’t know
• It is always safest not to use drugs but if you do:
  • Start slow – use a small amount to check strength and effect (“Crush, Dab, Wait”)
  • Don’t mix drugs with other drugs including alcohol or prescription medications
  • Don’t use alone
• Have a trusted friend with you who could look after you if you become unwell
• Make sure you plan an alternative way of getting home, so you don’t drink and drive
• Ask for help if you’re unwell, medical services will want to help you
• Be prepared by having condoms and lube. If you know you are likely to have sex under the influence of alcohol and drugs, you may be eligible for PrEP, a form of HIV protection. Contact your local sexual health clinic if you think you might be eligible
• Be mindful that a hangover can make you feel anxious or low, so look after yourself and rehydrate the next day”

Find more from Southampton City Council  (UK, August 2022)