Nurse Nettie reveals the top 10 questions for 2017

Nurse Nettie is a sexual health nurse who has heaps of experience. She’s the perfect person to give you the very best advice for taking care of yourself and playing safe when it comes to sex. You can ask Nurse Nettie a question here. And trust us, no question is too awkward!

We asked Nurse Nettie what were the most common questions in 2017 about all things sex.

You might be surprised by the questions – and the answers.

10. I’ve got spots on my penis – is this normal?

Spots on the penis could be completely normal or may be related to a skin problem. If you’ve never had sex before then it’s not likely to be an STI. Some guys get small, shiny lumps around the base of the head of the penis (the glans) called ‘pearly penile papules’. These are normal. If you’re worried about the spots it’s ok to visit a doctor. They’ve seen it all before, so there’s no need to be nervous.

9. What do I do if the condom breaks?

If a condom breaks or falls off during sex:

• Stop what you’re doing
• Pull out
• Take off the broken condom
• Put a new one on

It’s important that you both get tested for STIs and if you are worried about pregnancy, get the
emergency contraceptive pill.

8. Where is the best place to get condoms?

You can buy condoms from pretty much any grocery store, chemist or service station. Did you know you can also get free condoms? Find out more here.

7. Is my discharge normal?

Yes AND No. Some discharge is normal and everyone gets discharge. For girls, normal discharge can come in different colours (white, yellow, clear) and often can have a bit of a smell. For guys pre-cum and smegma is normal. Read more here.

If you notice your discharge has changed, smells really bad, or there is pain in your belly or your penis it is best to get it checked out by a doctor. Remember that most STIs have no symptoms.

6. When should I get tested for STIs?

If you are having sex, then you should have regular STI tests. Getting tested is easy and confidential.

If you have any symptoms or are worried, then arrange a test straight away with your doctor or sexual health clinic. It’s a good idea to get tested if:

• you think you might have an STI
• you have had unprotected sex, that is, sex without a condom or dam, including vaginal, oral or anal sex
• you have had a condom break or it has fallen off during sex
• your partner has another sexual partner or has had previous sexual partners
• you have shared injecting equipment
• you are starting a new sexual relationship

Learn more about getting tested here.

5. Can I get STIs from fingering?

It’s very unlikely to get an STI from fingering but you should always use a condom for any other sex (including oral sex).

4. What do I do if I forget to take my pill?

If you forget to take the pill you should think about getting the Morning After Pill and using condoms for the next seven days. The earlier you take the Morning After Pill the better, but you can take it up to 72 hours after unprotected sex.

3. Is it expensive to get an STI test?

STI Testing is free at sexual health clinics or at your GP if they bulk bill. There are also other services that provide free testing, you can learn more here.

2. I masturbate DAILY – is this normal?

I can tell you that it’s healthy and normal to masturbate, and it is actually good for you! Every day is totally fine. Some people will masturbate more frequently than that and some people will do it less. Everyone is different. Learn more here.

1. Where can I get tested for STIs?

There’s lots of options for testing. At your GP, at a sexual health clinic or at other services. Find out all the options for where to get tested here.

I hope that this helps answer some common questions about sex and STIs.

If you want more info call 1800 451 624 between 9am-5.30pm Monday to Friday to talk with a sexual health nurse (like me). It’s confidential and free if you call from a landline. I’m also here if you need anything else.

Play Safe,

Nurse Nettie