Alcohol is commonly drunk to make people feel more relaxed, confident and sociable. Because of these effects, some people also use alcohol to help them start new sexual relationships. However, excessive alcohol consumption can reduce inhibition and impair judgement. This increases the likelihood of sexual risk taking, which in turn increases the risk of catching a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and/or becoming pregnant. In a worst case scenario it may lead to
sexual assault.

If you want to cut the risk of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) when you mix drink and sex, remember to follow these easy steps:

1. Have a game plan
You don't necessarily go out expecting to have sex

2. Know your limits
The more you drink the less likely it is you'll use a condom

3. Out without a bag? No pockets?
Fit condoms in your shoe/sock/bra/pants!

4. If you're on the pill
Take it well before you start drinking so if you're sick your contraception will still work

5. When you're out
Keep an eye on your drink to make sure no one spikes it

6. No contraception?
Loads of bars and clubs have condom machines. Some taxi drivers do too. Keep condoms at home just in case

7. You're out ... but your contraception is at home
Take a pill with you if you can. To see fpa's missed pill advice click here

8. Is safer sex possible when you've been drinking?
Alcohol affects coordination. If you're drunk can you or your partner still put a condom on?

9. Alcohol affects judgement
Will you feel okay about what happened the night before ... the morning after?

10. Don't want sex?
Don't have it! Never let a partner or friends pressure you. Man or woman, you can say NO to sex at any time

11. Something happened
Don't panic. Get advice from fpa or a health professional. Take emergency hormonal contraception within 72 hours of unprotected sex and get tested for sexually transmitted infections.

For information on condoms, STIs, emergency contraception, missed pills or sexual health, visit:

www.fpa.org.uk

www.hey-babe.co.uk

www.HaveIGotIt.co.uk

For issues of personal safety visit: www.suzylamplugh.org

Alcohol: www.drinkaware.co.uk

or www.nhs.uk