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Public Health Agency of Canada
 What you need to know about STI - Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sex is a normal and healthy part of our lives
How to know if you have an infection
What are my chances of catching an STI?
No STI for me!
How are STIs spread?
Types of STI:
- chlamydia
- gonorrhea
- trichomonas
- pubic lice and scabies
- genital herpes
- genital warts (HPV)
- hepatitis B
- syphilis
- HIV/AIDS
How to use a condom
Condom chat
- Use of a Male Condom
- Use of a Female Condom
Where to go for help
  What you need to know about STI - Sexually Transmitted Infections

Condom chat

Condoms are easy to use, especially if you both understand that you need to use them. Sometimes people don't want to use a condom - that puts everyone's health at risk. More and more young Canadians say they are using a condom "most of the time".

Here are some common excuses for not using condoms... and some possible responses.

Excuse: "They don't feel good or fit properly."
Response: Let's try a different kind. If you have an allergy to latex, there are condoms made from polyurethane.

Excuse: "I'm embarrassed to buy them."
Response: I'll buy them or I know a clinic where we can get them for free.

Excuse: "I don't have one with me."
Response: I'll get one for next time, but for now, no sex.

Excuse: "I am not comfortable using a condom."
Response: I understand but they are really important - for both of us. There are directions on the condom box. Let's try them a few times and it can be part of the fun.

Excuse: "They spoil the mood. It interrupts things."
Response: We'll enjoy the mood more because we'll be less worried about pregnancy and infection.

Excuse: "You must think I have an infection or something."
Response: I have heard that some infections don't have any signs. We could ask at a clinic about testing. Let's be safe and use a condom.

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Last Updated: 2006-05-01 Top