Sexual health

Looking after your sexual health

Having sex with someone can, if you’re not careful, lead to some unintended consequences. You might end up with a sexually transmitted infection (STI), or an unplanned pregnancy. Both of these can have long-term effects, though can generally be avoided if you take certain precautions.

Examples of such precautions include:

condoms
contraceptive pills (only prevents pregnancy)
contraceptive implant (only prevents pregnancy)
intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD, IUCD) (only prevents pregnancy)
alternatives to sex, such as kissing, cuddling or masturbating.

If you have had unprotected sex or the method of contraception didn't work, there are still options if you are worried about getting pregnant. An emergency contraceptive pill can prevent pregnancy, as long as it is taken within 72 hours (3 days) of having sex. These can be bought from a chemist, the Family Planning clinics or your doctor on prescription.

If you’re sexually active, you should also make sure you’re having regular STI checks.

Neither of these should be relied on however, and the best way to avoid anything unexpected happening is by taking precautions and being careful.

Many contraception options are available for low cost or free for people in Aotearoa who are eligible for publicly funded healthcare. This can also include consultation or counselling services.

Make sure you get to know the pros and cons of each form of contraception, and that you’re getting the protection you need. The pill or contraceptive implants, for example, can prevent pregnancies but not Sexually Transmissible Infections (STIs). You can get detailed information on contraceptive methods on the Sexual Wellbeing website. Sexual Wellbeing is also available for advice and clinic visits, and it’s all confidential. It’s also free if you’re under the age of 22.

Many Sexually Transmissible Infections (STIs) are easily treated, managed, or controlled. Some of them don’t have symptoms, so it’s important to get checked to protect yourself and your partner(s).

If you’re sexually active, make sure you’re having regular STI checks! You can check out Sexual Wellbeing as a starting point on where and when to get an STI test, but there are services available all over the country.

An unplanned pregnancy can lead to mixed feelings, and things that you’ve never considered before. It’s normal to be anxious, scared or not know what to do. Make sure you talk to someone you trust, or your doctor or a health professional. Raising a child is a long-term commitment so it’s important to discuss your expectations and feelings with someone who won’t judge you.

The Health Navigator website has an informative guide to your pregnancy options. Sexual Wellbeing also has a useful pregnancy section on their website.

Who can I talk to?

Having someone you can talk to is key if you’re going to manage your sexual health successfully.

Developing a trusting relationship with your doctor is particularly important. Being able to visit a doctor that understands your history and how to care for you, especially for anyone in the LGBTQIA+ community, helps make sure your sexual health is looked after.

Some other services you can contact are:

Sexual Wellbeing – You can call or make appointments with Sexual Wellbeing for advice on sexual and reproductive health issues.
Healthline – Healthline offer advice and information from trusted, registered nurses.
Youthline – Youthline is available to discuss a range of issues relevant to young people, including sexual health.

Other key websites

HealthEd - HealthEd is a great website to search for free health resources. It covers everything from mental health to sexual health, and has lots of in-depth content from the Ministry of Health and Health Promotion Agency.
Ministry of Health - The Ministry of Health is the government ministry that looks after health and disability. As well as having a range of articles, they also have information on their website for Healthline, which is a number you can call if you’re looking for advice.

Sexual health

Looking after your sexual health

Who can I talk to?

Other key websites

Next in Wellbeing | Hauora

Identity and culture

Mental wellbeing

Physical wellbeing

Relationships