Look After Your Sexual Elf
The holiday season is a time for fun, festivities, and connection. As life gets busy with celebrations, it’s essential to keep your sexual health and wellbeing a priority. This Christmas, let’s talk about how you can look after yoursexual elf! From consent to testing, PrEP to condoms, here are some top tips for staying safe and informed this festive season.
Get Consent Underneath That Mistletoe
The festive spirit should never overshadow the importance of consent. Whether it’s a kiss under the mistletoe or a romantic moment at a party, remember that consent must always be:
- Ongoing
- Enthusiastic
- Mutual
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, support is available. Local Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) provide confidential care, guidance, and support whenever you need it.
Stay on Track with PrEP
If you’re taking PrEP to prevent HIV, consistency is key. Between parties, travel, and late nights, it’s easy to forget a dose. A PrEP timer reminder app can keep you on track, ensuring you’re always protected. Giving yourself peace of mind is one of the best gifts you can receive.
Condoms: A Festive Essential
Want to avoid any holiday surprises? Make condoms part of your festive checklist! They’re compact, easy to carry, and essential for protecting against STIs and unplanned pregnancies. Stock up before the Christmas rush to stay prepared wherever your celebrations take you.
Time for Testing
The end of the year is not only a time for partying but also one for reflection. That's why we live to encourage people to consider their sexual health routine as we move into the new year. Regular sexual health testing offers reassurance for you and your partners. Many services provide quick and discreet options, but remember to check for reduced opening hours over the festive season.
Plan Ahead for Holiday Opening Hours
Sexual health services may have limited availability over the holidays. Be sure to check their schedules in advance and stock up on what you need—whether it’s condoms, PrEP, or advice—before services close. Click the services near me tab at the top of the page for more info in your area. For emergencies or out of hours urgent support visit your nearest A&E.
Help keep this service free
They say in life, there's no such thing as a free condom. Well, that's not strictly true because this service is 100% free. However, if you are able to make a donation (however small) to our JustGiving page, you can help keep this service free. Your support allows us to provide condoms to those who need them most for a longer time.
HIV testing
Click below to learn more about HIV testing and how you can access a free HIV home testing kit.
PEP & PrEP
Do you want know more about PEP and PrEP? Click here to learn about PEP and PrEP.
Services near me
Want to find a sexual health clinic near you? Click below to find discover sexual health services across the Southwest.