SEXUAL HEALTH AND YOUNG MEN
If you think that sexual health, contraception and pregnancy are only for women to worry about - think again! Nobody can afford to ignore their sexual behaviour - it is too important.
For example, men are just as much at risk of sexually transmitted infections as women, and the symptoms can be just as severe. If you are going to have sex, the only way to keep yourself - and others - safe is to carry condoms, and use them.
Pregnancy - an issue for men too!
Some myths dispelled
- a woman can get pregnant the first time she has sex
- your partner can get pregnant even if you pull out before you come!
An unwanted or unexpected pregnancy is one of the most life altering experiences a person can go through. Whilst it is ultimately the woman's decision as to whether or not she goes ahead with a pregnancy or decides to have a termination, it can have far reaching consequences for the man too. Termination can be extremely traumatic for both. If a woman decides to go ahead with the pregnancy then having a child is a major undertaking. If the parents don't stay together the father will still by law have financial responsibility for the child - even if he has never seen him/her.
Whichever way you look at it, unless you're both sure that being parents is what you want, the best option is to make sure your partner doesn't get pregnant in the first place - and this is just as much your responsibility as hers.
Services available for young men
All young people - men and women - are welcome at sexual health services. Sexual health and contraceptive advice, information and free condoms are available at a Family Planning Clinic, GUM Clinic, or Castlegate. Your G.P. should also be able to offer you advice. York College and Askham Bryan college students can go to the health drop-in at their college.