"I'm on the pill", how often is this the reply to "what type of birth control do you use?" Low dose birth control pills are still one of the most popular forms of contraception in the Western world but they do not give the added protection that is needed these days against sexually transmitted infections. Playing sexual Russian roulette is not 'cool' anymore, especially if you have multiple sexual partners. If you are not using some form of barrier contraception device in addition to your low dose birth control, you are taking a huge risk today.  Stats prove that relationships change so even if you believe you are in a committed relationship now, so this is a plea to be  'savvy'  when it comes to your sexual health. If you are a young adolescent you may be experimenting with your sexuality and intimacy but you need to strong if you are dating an older boy who attempts to pressure you into unsafe sex.

There is no such thing as 'risk free sex'.  There are risks associated with having sex just the same as with other types of behaviour. YOU must make the decision about whether or not you are going to risk catching an STI by only relying on your low dose birth control methods without the backup of a barrier device. Barrier devices such as male and female condoms do not give 100% protection against STI's but allow you more sexual  freedom and will afford you some peace of mind that you are following 'best practice' when it comes to your sexual health. Some people are uncomfortable talking about condoms and while they agree with their importance, still cannot summon up the courage to insist on their use.

Ask yourself if you have ever been faced with any of these 'risky' situations:

• having casual, revenge sex with someone to get back at a partner who dumped you
• having sex when you are drunk or 'high'
• having sex out of curiosity, 'pity' or boredom
• having sex with an ex partner because it's easy, 'it just happened'
• having sex with someone you have 'had the hots' for for ages but know you mean nothing to them
• having sex with someone who treats you badly
• having sex with someone who is not 'free' to be your partner
• having sex with someone you've just met and want to appear 'cool' to by not using a condom

These are high risk situations for catching an STI, which often happen spontaneously but which could leave you with a lot more pain than pleasure. You may not have talked to anyone yet about the risks of STIs or in fact about sex at all but if you're having sex, take some time to consider the 'what ifs' if you DON"T use a barrier contraceptive as well as your low dose birth control method. There are lots of clinics that welcome the chance to talk to people about STIs and safer sex-  once you go, you can be an 'expert' for your friends.

Your low dose birth control pill will not protect you from catching an STI in any of these situations if you do not use a barrier form of birth control as well. You owe it to yourself and any future sexual partners to think about the risk of unprotected sex before you jump into a sexual situation. You owe it yourself to spend time thinking about HOW YOU can make good sexual choices 'all round', maybe a session with friends is worth suggesting but remember that when you're next in the arms of  your lover, is your low dose birth control really your best friend?

If stored properly, condoms have a shelf life of 3 years and there's all the selection you could want these days (including special deals on bulk packs) so make sure you have 'one for the road'.