National Condom Day
It’s Valentine’s Day National Condom Day!
It’s no coincidence that Valentine’s Day and National Condom Day fall on the same day… but in terms of which one we’re celebrating, well,...
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What is a dental dam? How to use them and where to find them
Exploring the benefits and purpose of a dental dam
Dental dams may not be trending across social media but could this lesser-known barrier method be a good option for you?...
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Been diagnosed with an STI? Now what?
If you’ve been diagnosed with a sexually transmissible infection (STI), you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed, worried or unsure about what’s next.
It might seem scary but getting an...
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Why we love lube (and you will too)
Have you ever been having sex and noticed that things were getting a bit…dry? It happens to the best of us and there’s a super easy solution.
ENTER: lube.
Honestly,...
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Talking to your doctor about sexual health
Does the thought of talking to your doctor about sexual health give you butterflies or send a shiver down your spine?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. It can be a...
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LQBTQIA+ Support
Offering a range of services to the LGBTQIA+ community. No matter your age, stage or inclinations, ACON is here for you, here for health.
ACON is here for community and...
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All about Anal Sex
We’re talking about sexual activity that involves your butt.
Anal play can be enjoyed by anyone of any gender or orientation and can be:
Putting fingers or a tongue (rimming)...
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Can I get an STI from oral sex?
The short answer? Yes! Oral sex (using your mouth to pleasure someone’s penis, vagina, or anus) is still sex, at which means that you could get (or give someone) an...
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Safe sex between women
Women who have sex with women are wonderfully diverse. And sex between women is just as diverse. The risk of getting an STI or HIV depends on what kind of...
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Sydney World Pride 2023
If you’re like us, you can’t wait to celebrate the first ever Sydney WorldPride, whether you’re going to be marching in the parade or attending one of the 200+ events...
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Mpox
Mpox (previously called monkeypox) is an infection caused by the monkeypox virus.
What are the symptoms of mpox?
Mpox symptoms usually begin 3 – 21 days after being exposed to...
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Keeping your genitals healthy
Getting to know your genitals and knowing how to care for them is super important. Not only does it allow you to keep them healthy, it also means that if...
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Dealing with sexual anxiety
Whether you’re new to sex or pretty experienced, sexual anxiety is real and can impact you at any stage. But never fear, we’ve put together some info to help you...
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Here’s your STI check, Australia!
Get up to speed on Australia’s Sexual Health with Dr Skye McGregor and find out what happened to STI rates during COVID-19.
STIs like Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Syphilis, have been...
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Guess who’s back, back again…Syphilis
You may think of syphilis as an infection that affected people back in the days of Henry VIII, but we’re here to tell you that syphilis is not only alive...
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5 ways you can get involved with SEXtember
Talking about sex in real-life is part of our everyday here at Play Safe. For a lot of people though, especially those new to or experimenting with their sexuality, this...
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Why do we have pubic hair?
Pubes, bush, carpet, map of tassie, rug – whatever you call it, pubic hair can be a divisive issue. Whether you choose to treat your pubic hair like a work...
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Everything you need to know about condoms
When it comes to safe sex, nothing beats a condom.
How to use a condom
When they’re used correctly, condoms are over 98% effective, but, it’s easy to make mistakes...
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Is my body ‘normal’?
Having sex (of any kind) involves partial or full nudity. So, whether you’re engaging in penetrative sex, or having some fun with oral or foreplay — one thing’s for sure,...
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6 things we wish sex ed had taught us
With consent education becoming mandatory for schools in NSW and VIC, we thought it would be worth revisiting sexual education as a whole. Whether you graduated in the early 00’s,...
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Is penile discharge normal?
Penile discharge is a watery or thickened fluid that sometimes comes out of the penis. It travels down the middle of the penis to the opening at the head (glans)...
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Having sex for the first time? Here’s what to expect…
So, you’re thinking about having penetrative sex for the first time? Penetrative sex (aka sexual intercourse) can be an enjoyable way to connect and get closer with someone. It’s healthy...
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Awkward sex ‘problems’ that are actually totally normal
A fulfilling sex life doesn’t look the same for everyone. Some love the intimacy of an exclusive relationship, others enjoy experimenting with different sexual partners. There’s no ‘right’ way to...
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What’s “normal” when it comes to vaginal discharge?
All people with a vagina have vaginal discharge (fluid or semi-solid substance that flows out of the vaginal opening). It’s a way the body maintains a healthy vagina. In fact,...
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Ask Nurse Nettie: the top 10 questions from 2021
Nurse Nettie, our resident sexual health expert, is available throughout the year to answer sexual health and relationship questions from young people across NSW.
All answers are 100% anonymous (always)...
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How to improve your sex life overnight
Do you want an amazing sex life; one that’s satisfying, exciting and safe? There’s more to it than simply trying the latest moves you’ve seen in porn. From open communication...
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How to have safe sex: the importance of consent
Before having sex, it’s important you have your partner’s consent, and that you give yours too. In this article we explore the who, what, when, where, how, and why of...
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Four dating tips for a healthy and safe internet relationship
It seems like everyone meets their partners online nowadays, and post COVID-19 lockdown it’s become even more popular to chat online. There’s no denying that internet dating is a great...
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What’s the difference between an STI and an STD?
STI stands for sexually transmissible infection. That last word makes all the difference because most of the bacteria or viruses passed on through sex are actually infections, not diseases.
Asymptomatic...
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The Dos and Don’ts of Condoms
Did you know that condoms are the only form of contraception that protect against both unplanned pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs)?
When they’re used correctly they’re over 98% effective,...
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Safe sex for young people: how to protect yourself from STIs
By understanding the risks associated with sex – and doing what you can do to minimise them – you can protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and take control...
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The 4 C’s of safe sex
When people hear ‘safe sex’ they usually think about protecting themselves and partners from unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmissible infections (STIs). But we reckon that safe sex means much more...
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Is it normal to bleed after sex?
Bleeding from inside the vagina after penetrative sex is called post-coital bleeding, and is more common than you might think. There are plenty of reasons why it might be happening...
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Consent: How does it work?
We spoke to Consent Labs on the topic of consensual sexual encounters, and here’s what they had to say about how it all works…
Talking about sexual consent, and actually...
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Preparing to have sex for the first time
Deciding to have sex for the first time is a big decision. Being prepared is one of the best things that you can do to make sure it’s safe and...
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The complete guide to the internal condom
Everyone knows what a condom is, but hands up if you’ve ever heard of the internal condom (also known as the female condom)? This lesser-known barrier contraceptive gets inserted into...
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Am I addicted to Porn?
The internet has made porn more accessible than ever before. One quick search and you have a host of pornographic material – no matter your taste – available within seconds....
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What’s it like getting an STI test in NSW?
Even though it’s a normal part of a healthy and enjoyable sex life, getting an STI test can sometimes feel daunting. To show that there’s really nothing to worry about,...
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Erectile dysfunction
What is erectile dysfunction (ED)?
Erectile dysfunction (ED) is when your penis usually or always won’t get fully erect (hard) or won’t stay erect when you want it to.Everyone with...
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How to put a condom on without being awkward
Condoms. They’re the only contraception that protects against both unwanted pregnancy and STIs, yet they can cause people a whole lot of stress when it comes to putting them on...
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Can pre-cum get you pregnant?
...
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Why do pronouns matter anyway?
When we speak about someone else, it’s common to use pronouns to talk about them. She, he, they, etc. But what if the pronoun you use doesn’t reflect who they...
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Can I get an STI from that?
Sex is great. But also kinda confusing sometimes. What risks are there for different kinds of sex? And how do you stay safe and take control of your sexual health?...
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What to do if you’re allergic to condoms
Condoms are the only form of contraception that protect against STIs and unplanned pregnancy. Although most people have no problems using condoms, a small proportion of people can be allergic...
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When can you stop using condoms with a partner?
When someone chooses to be in a monogamous relationship, they might start thinking about stopping the use of condoms during sex. It might be for reasons of trust, lust, or...
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Can technology help us have safer sex?
Technology has changed every part of the world we live in; from the way we listen to music to the way we date. But we want to know; can technology...
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5 condom myths
Did you know that condoms are the only form of contraception that protects against both STIs and pregnancy? But for some reason, some people choose not to use them when...
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How to ask your partner to wear a condom
Even though condoms are literally the only way to protect yourself from STIs and pregnancy during sex, for some reason some people still want to avoid using them. From ‘it...
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Foreskin Care- Everything you need to know
Turtleneck, penis beanie, magician’s cloak – the foreskin seems to bear the brunt of a lot of ridicule. People either love them or hate them, but either way you should...
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Our favourite sex and relationship YouTubers
YouTube is the second most visited website in the world and is packed with content that tackles every subject imaginable – from sex and sexual health, to relationships, body positivity...
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The dos and don’ts of online dating
There are so many online dating sites to choose from today, and more and more people are finding relationships and hookups online. But, navigating the world of online dating isn’t...
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Our favourite Posts on the Play Safe Forum
Run by our team of volunteer moderators (mods), the Play Safe forum is packed full of topics, threads and conversations from people just like you. Covering everything from sexual health...
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Sex on your period. Everything you need to know.
Sex on your period will undoubtedly be messy, but can also be enjoyable. In fact, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with having sex during this time. But… there’s a few things...
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5 myths about STI testing – busted
Getting an STI test is a normal part of a healthy and confident sex life, but sometimes it can feel daunting or confusing. But have no fear because we’re here...
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Does anxiety impact your sex life?
Sexual health isn’t just about STIs. It’s also about feeling safe in your own body, being able to experience pleasure, and being confident to make decisions that are right for...
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8 must haves for your festival packing list
Who doesn’t love a festival? The music, the vibes, the people. The free STI testing (yep, that’s a thing). Whether it’s a day festival or a three-day camping extravaganza we’ve...
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7 gifs that show why we love condoms
The 14th February isn’t just Valentine’s Day. It’s National Condom Day here in Australia. To celebrate, we share seven reasons why we believe in no glove, no love.
1). Condoms...
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5 Australian women changing the way we think about sex
Loving your body and understanding how to have a healthy and confident sex life is so important. Luckily, Australia has plenty of incredible women who are driving change in the...
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How to talk about STIs
Want to ask your partner to get an STI test? Or let someone know you’ve got an STI? Talking about STIs isn’t always easy – here’s some advice to make...
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What STI tests do I need?
Did you know that the types of STI tests you need differ depending on the type of sex you’re having?
There are a few different types of STI tests –...
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Emergency Contraceptive Pill (The morning after pill)
The Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP) AKA ‘The Morning After Pill’ can be taken to reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex. That means, if you’ve had sex and the...
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What is oral sex?
Whether you’re preparing for penetrative sex or you’re just not quite ready to go ‘all the way’; oral sex is a great way to experience and experiment with intimacy. Officially,...
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Popping your cherry
Ever heard the phrase “popping your cherry”? It’s slang for losing your virginity and refers to the tearing (stretching open) or “popping” of the hymen during vaginal sex (penis-in-vagina intercourse)....
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Let’s talk lube
Lubricant, or lube, increases pleasure for girls and guys, during sex, making sex more comfortable and enjoyable. Lube is used to decrease friction, which means sex with lube won’t be...
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Sexting
Sending sexy pics can be fun, but once a picture is sent it’s out there for all to (potentially) see. It doesn’t take long to screenshot a Snapchat and send...
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Let’s talk about sex
The song is so right. If we’re having sex – we want to have amazing sex, whether it’s with a long-term partner or a casual fling.
Talking about sex, what...
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Sex toys – the low down
Sex toys can bring extra fun to masturbating and sex. They’re not just for using alone – they’re also a lot of fun to use with someone else too.
Sex...
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Pain in the penis
No one likes to experience pain – especially in the penis! Let’s look at some of the reasons why you can feel pain in your penis, and the solutions for...
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Consent 101
Before having sex, it’s important you have your partner’s consent. Here’s the who, what, when, where, how, and why of consent:
What is consent?
Consent means to agree to do...
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Lumps, bumps & itching – Taking care down there
It’s pretty easy to have a freak out when you find a strange lump or bump on or around your genitals. Luckily most of them harmless but it’s better to...
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Where did the Condom go?
So you’ve just had sex, but the condom has disappeared? No need to freak out, here are a few steps you can take.
Find the condom
The first thing you...
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Pregnancy Choices
Whether you expected it or not, finding out you are pregnant can be a shock. You are probably finding that you will go through a whole range of feelings. Whatever...
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The Pill
It seems from your questions and emails that many of you are interested in the Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill, or “the Pill”.
The Pill is a small tablet that a...
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What is asexuality?
I don’t feel sexually attracted to anyone. What’s wrong with me?
Nothing! Some people are attracted to boys, some to girls, and some to both and/or other genders. But some...
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What does the word “sex” mean to you?
Have you just started our ‘Have I got an STI?’ quiz but you’re not sure if the questions apply to you?
That’s because sex isn’t quite as simple as it...
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10 ways to be better in bed – via GIF
Want a session you’ll never forget?
1. Talk
Talking about sex, makes the actual sex better. Share what you like and don’t like.
2. Laugh
Let’s face it. Sex has...
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Talk First!
Talk First – how to talk about sex
Whether you’re having sex for the first time or you’re about to sleep with a new partner, talking about sex isn’t always...
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5 New Year’s resolutions for a better sex life
Forget ‘going to the gym’, or ‘giving up chocolate’. How about a new year’s resolution that’s actually fun?
Here are our top 5 resolutions for a healthy and better sex...
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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...
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Premature Ejaculation
Premature ejaculation just means “coming too fast”. But what is too fast?
Sometimes movies and TV shows make premature ejaculation out to be a big deal, but really it’s not...
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Vaginal pain during sex
Vaginal pain during sex is more common than you might think. Here, we discuss the different causes of vaginal pain during sex, how you can address it with your partner,...
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The Big O… Orgasms!
Let’s talk about the big O – Orgasms!
What is an orgasm?
Having an orgasm or “coming” is what happens when you hit your sexual climax.
It’s an intense feeling...
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Girls carrying condoms
Have you ever been in the situation where you are getting hot with a guy and then he drops the line “I can’t find a condom” while fumbling around in...
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The Weird History of Condoms
These days condoms are easy to find – they’re sold in supermarkets, chemists and convenience stores. You can even get condoms for free at some youth services, family planning services,...
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How to play safe – online dating
Grindr, Tinder, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat… dating apps and social media platforms have made it easier than ever to meet new people.
As with traditional dating, you want to keep...
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Hepatitis – everything you need to know
So what is Viral Hepatitis?
Hepatitis is a viral illness that makes the liver sick. The three most common types are: A, B and C. Because of the job the...
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Visiting a Youth Health Service
A Youth Health WHAT?
What is a Youth Health Service? And what should you expect when you visit one?
A Youth Health Service is a FREE, SAFE, & CONFIDENTIAL place...
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7 ways to Play Safe at schoolies
1. Packing tips
Condoms! Condoms! Condoms! The only thing you want to bring home from schoolies is awesome memories, so make sure you pack some condoms and carry them with...
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A guide to menstrual Cups
When compared with tampons or pads, menstrual cups have historically been the less popular choice for period management. However that’s now shifting and there are two big reasons as to...
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Pubic lice
Let’s talk about Pubic Lice, or Crabs.
What are Pubic Lice?
Pubic lice are tiny insects that generally live on the pubic hair around the genitals. They can sometimes attach...
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World AIDS Day
What’s World AIDS Day?
Held worldwide on 1st December each year, World AIDS Day provides an opportunity for everyone to:
Remember those who lost their lives to HIV and AIDS...
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Doctors. They’re not that scary
Making an appointment and visiting a medical centre or sexual health clinic can be overwhelming.
Just like anyone else, young people under 18 years of age have the right to ...
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Thrush
It can often make women feel embarrassed, miserable and even dirty. But thrush, also called Candidiasis, is more common than you think!
It happens in around 50% of women at...
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What is gonorrhoea?
Hey, Nurse Nettie here for a quick chat about gonorrhoea or “Gono” for short. I’ve even heard it called the “Clap” (no round of applause please!).
Gonorrhoea is an STI...
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Longer Lasting Contraception
Long-acting reversible contraception or LARC, are contraceptive methods that last a long time, but aren’t permanent. This means you can stop the contraceptive method and plan for a baby if...
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Wrap your tool
We’re all told time and time again to use condoms to reduce the chance of pregnancy and STIs. But it’s not very often we’re told how they work.
Body fluids...
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Penile Discharge
What’s normal?
For guys, the urethra runs through the middle of the penis to the opening at the head of the penis (glans), and carries urine (pee) during urination or...
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Vaginal Discharge
What’s normal and not normal?
All women have some vaginal discharge (fluid or semisolid substance that flows out of the vaginal opening). It’s a way the body maintains a healthy...
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Penis 101
No matter how often guys hear the expression ‘size doesn’t matter’, chances are they’ve, at some stage, worried about the size, shape, look, and ability of their penis.
Here are...
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Vagina 101
There’s a lot of confusion about what the vagina ‘should’ look, feel or smell like. So, here are some simple facts (vagina 101) to clear the rumours.
The vagina is...
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