The Observer, March 9, 2007
Volume XXXIX, Issue 20
Sex & Dating: Spring break sex
So it's finally spring break. You've worked hard all semester, battled through midterms, and have definitely earned a blissful week. For a lot of students, spring break is all about the three S's: sun, surf, and sex. And whether you're headed off with your long-term honey or cruising the beaches for a temporary tryst, there are some important things to keep in mind to ensure that all sex is totally safe (and still fun!).
Spring break sex often means outdoor sex. While celebrating warm weather with some nooky is fun, you have to use some extra caution. If you're having sex on the beach (a must-do!) you need to bring a big blanket. A beach towel won't cut it this time. You need to ensure that you keep as much sand away from you and your honey as possible. Aside from the painful possibilities sand can create, there are also lots of germs and creepy crawlies that live in the sand that you definitely do not want getting that up close and personal with you.
If your outdoor option calls for something a bit more nautical, take heed. The biggest danger here is having water get into your girl. Not romantic. Then the chemicals (if it's a pool or hot tub) or tiny ocean creatures set up camp and can cause lots of problems. Not fun! But there's not much that can be done to prevent this, so the best advice is to try to refrain from water sex as much as possible. Also, it's a huge and dangerous myth that you can't get pregnant in water, so it's important to still use a condom and water-based lube.
If you're going to be twisting sheets (or kicking up sand) with a brand-new partner this week, there are a few more things to consider. First, don't be shy about backing out of sex at the last minute if you notice that something's not quite right. A lot of STD symptoms can be seen, so if you see red bumps or a rash, it's time to dash, even if you were planning on using a condom. Feel free to question your bedmate about any known STDs or if they often have unprotected sex – just don't count on the truth of the answer!
No matter what base you and your fling plan to round, you must use a condom! Even if you don't plan on having sex, it's essential to use a condom for any sexual contact at all, including oral or manual sex. Most STDs can be transferred by indirect touch (i.e. your hand or mouth to anywhere else), and some can even be transferred to other body parts. You don't want gonorrhea in your eye, do you? Infections can be passed in many ways, to many more body parts that are generally involved in sexual intercourse. Be especially cautious about cold sores. A person with a cold sore can give his or her partner genital herpes by performing oral sex. These are not the souvenirs you are looking for!
It's always in good taste to keep your friends in the loop. Look out for each other, and if they think you're getting in a bad situation (or if they think you're being too aggressive with someone else) let them step in. It's always better to end a night early than to wake up the next morning with a terrible mistake. Relax, have fun, and be safe. Happy Spring Break!
