THE FREEDOM BOOK - Cambridge University Students' Union

16 CUSU LGBT The Freedom Book 2008SexSometimes it can seem as if everyone is having sex: your friends,the couple in the room next door, people on the TV.The truth is, some people are having sex, and some aren’t, and it doesn’tmake anyone better or more cool if they are having it. What’s more, ifyou do choose to have sex you should remember that you’re always incontrol. It’s your body and you only have to do what you want.It’s never too late to say no. Sex means different things to differentpeople: it’s up to you to set your boundaries and ultimately sex isalways your choice.If you do decide to have sex, enjoy it. As long as you and your partnerare happy with what is happening, there is no need for guilt or to beashamed. If you both discuss what you like, what you don’t like, whatyou want to do, what you don’t want to do…the key to great sex iscommunication. There are no rules about when you should first havesex with someone you meet; as long as you both agree, you can startin the first ten minutes you know each other or wait ten years. Justbecause someone expects sex from you, it doesn’t mean you can’t sayno. If they don’t respect your choices and feelings, they may not be thebest person to be with.Protecting yourself and your partners is important, but it doesn’t haveto be a big deal. The following are all ‘barrier methods’ – somethingthat places a physical barrier between you and your partner. They’rean easy way to make your sex safer.A condom is a thin protective ‘glove’ that fits over an erect penis.They’re usually made of latex, although there are (more expensive)condoms for people who have latex allergies. Condoms can be usedfor all forms of intercourse, for oral sex (flavoured condoms are available)and can also be used on sex toys.To put on a condom, carefully open the foil packet making sure that youdon’t tear the condom. Before unrolling, squeeze the teat at the end(this is a reservoir to hold the semen when you come) and place the