Tips on Safe Sex Practice for African Adolescents and Young Adults

Isma Butt, DPT, DLHA Volunteer and Freelance Medical Writer. Medically reviewed by: Chika Jones, BNSc., RN, RM, RPHN.

 

.Side view of an adolescent African female wearing a headgear and red top, sitting on a hospital bed and holding her newborn baby wrapped in white blanket. Image credit: UNFPA

 

Highlights

• It is important to remember that safe sex is more than being protective. It's about being respectful, confident, and caring about your health and your partner's health as well.

• Have honest conversations about sex. Talking freely and honestly about safe sex helps everybody to make better decisions.

• You should always wear condoms and learn how and what you can do to reduce the chances of HIV infections, STIs, and unwanted pregnancies. Look for birth control methods and get yourself tested regularly.

• Don't hesitate to seek advice or ask questions to trusted adults. Youth-friendly clinics and community programmes also provide all the necessary information to help you make better choices. 

Introduction

Many adolescents (i.e., children between ages 10 - 19) are at risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. This is primarily due to a lack of awareness of safe sex practices and the benefits of open discussions about them. Africa has the most new HIV infections globally. Young individuals aged 15-24 years are especially affected. Every year, millions of young people get new STIs. This affects their health and future.

However, infections are not the only concern. African adolescents and young women also experience very high rates of unplanned pregnancies. Studies reveal that sub-Saharan Africa has some of the highest unwanted pregnancy rates worldwide. [1] This issue is particularly prevalent among teenage girls and the statistics are concerning. Niger tops the list with over 200 births per 1,000 adolescent girls. The rates in Mali, Angola, Mozambique, and several other countries are also high, each over 130 per 1,000 girls aged 15-19. [2] These pregnancies cause girls to leave school, face family rejection, or have health issues. 

This blog aims to break the silence and provide you with sound reproductive health tips for informed decision-making on safe sex, helping you avoid the consequences of ignorance and poor judgment.

What is Safe Sex, and Why Does it Matter?

Safe sex practices are those that are taken, such as wearing a condom during sexual intercourse, to protect yourself and your partner from

1. Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HIV, Gonorrhea, and syphilis.
2. Unplanned pregnancies.
3. Emotional damages (pressure, regret, or exploitation).

Safe sex is essential. It allows you to understand your choices and empowers you to take control of your body. [3]

Basic Principles of Safe Sex:

There are some general principles we should discuss before addressing any particular practices:

• Consent: Both partners must agree to engage in sexual activities. It should be mutual and clear, with no doubts involved.
• Communication: Be open with your partner regarding your sexual health. Speak about STIs, testing procedures, and protection methods.
• Protection: Always use protection whenever you and your partner have sex. This is the most effective way of avoiding STIs and unplanned pregnancies.

Why African Adolescents May Not Practice Safe Sex?

These include:

• Ignorance about/ Lack of awareness of basic reproductive health education
• Attitude of youthfulness and invisibleness to harm
• Lack of age appropriate reproductive health resources in local languages
• Cultural taboos and stigma that reduce the availability of accurate information
• Lack of inclusion of reproductive health education in school curriculum  
• Poor parental guidance
• Weak policies in support of adolescent health, causing:
  • Gaps in healthcare and social services addressing adolescent health needs
  • Poor availability of affordable reproductive health products for safe sex practice
  • Poor public health funding generally for reproductive health programming and services

Many young people don't get the proper education on safe sex. Talking about sex, condom use, and birth control methods is often considered a taboo subject. As a result, many teens are unaware of how to protect themselves or where to seek help. Some lack access to condoms or other protective methods. This makes learning about safe sex more important than ever. Safe sex isn't just about avoiding issues. It’s also about taking care of yourself and your body. Plus, it helps you strive for a better life. 

Practical Tips for African Adolescents on Safe Sex Practice

1. Correct use of condoms

Condoms are your best source of protection against STIs and pregnancy. They are only effective when used consistently throughout sex. [4]

How to use condoms correctly:

• Always check for expiry dates; old ones break easily.
• Use water-based lube.
• Pinch the tip before using.
• Keep them away from heat and sharp objects.

2. Contraceptive choices

In the case of preventing pregnancy, consider the following:

• Short-term methods: birth control pills, injectable, and the morning-after pill.
• Long-term method: intrauterine devices (IUDs) last 5–10 years; implants last for 3–5 years.
• Dual protection: condoms + another method (e.g., pills) to be maximally safe.

3. Getting tested regularly

Most STIs, including chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, and trichomoniasis, may present without noticeable symptoms for some time. Untreated STIs can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and other complications that damage the reproductive organs, potentially causing infertility in both men and women. Therefore, getting yourself checked every 3–6 months (if sexually active) is effective.

Also, remember to get yourself tested:

• Before getting into a new relationship.
• If you have multiple partners.
• If you engage in unprotected sex.

Key tests: HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B, chlamydia, gonorrhea

4. Limiting the number of sexual partners

If you have more than one partner, you are at risk of catching or transmitting STIs. Avoid engaging in sexual activities with multiple partners and be open with your partner about your sexual history.

5. Avoid substance use before sex

Consumption of alcohol and drugs may limit your ability to make safe decisions. This results in risky behaviors, such as failure to wear a condom. It is advisable to avoid using drugs and alcohol before you have sex. [5]

Ways to Improve Adolescents' General Knowledge and Skills about Safe Sex Practice

1. Comprehensive Sex Education

Comprehensive sex education (CSE) helps teenagers make safe health choices. It is the best way to teach them. CSE teaches about: [6]

• How your body functions.
• How you can prevent infections and pregnancies
• How to negotiate and communicate with your partner.
• The importance of consent and respect.

CSE in schools and community programmes has helped lower infections and risky behaviours in young people. If you or your community aren't getting these lessons, ask for them. Education is powerful.

2. Debunking myths from peers and social media

Several myths surround safe sex, which may result in unsafe actions. It is important to get educated about these myths and to learn the facts. Let's look at a few:

Myth #1: “I am in a monogamous relationship, so I don't need protection.”

Fact: Even in a monogamous relationship, you should use protection. This is important unless you and your partners have been tested and are free of STIs.

Myth #2: “Contraceptives cause infertility.”

Fact: Modern birth control methods are safe; they do not cause infertility.

Myth #3: “Condoms lower pleasure."

Fact: Lots of individuals discover that condom use can add pleasure. They come in many varieties, e.g., ultra-thin ones.

Myth #4: “Sex education encourages teens to practise sex.”

Fact: No, good sex education only helps you make informed decisions about your health. It teaches you respect, confidence, and the importance of consent.

Myth #5: “Using two condoms is safer than one.”

Fact: Using two condoms at once increases the likelihood of breakage. Use only one at a time.

3. Parent-Adolescent Communication Strategies

• It's always best to start early. Parents should talk with their children about safe sex in an open manner. Keep the conversation age-appropriate and free of shame.
• Parents need to be open-minded and do not judge; pay attention to facts and talk about sexual health regularly.
• Parents should share information and resources, invite questions, and help teens make safe decisions. [7]
• Children should also take the initiative to respectfully ask questions from their parents about reproductive and safe sex practices if their parents do not provide information readily 

4. Breaking stigma around condom use

In most African cultures, individuals may associate condoms with a lack of trust or intimacy. But protection is a sign of responsibility, not unfaithfulness.

What to do?

• Normalise buying condoms.
• Talk to your partner about safe sex as a mutual responsibility.

5. Empowering women to negotiate safe sex

Because of gender inequality, women do not demand the use of condoms.

What to do?

• Carry female condoms; they give women more control.
• Listen and acknowledge your partner’s concerns.
• Give your partner time to think.
• Say things like: “I care about us. I want us to have a good time together; could we use a condom?”

6. Youth-friendly sexual health services

Many young adults and teenagers choose not to visit health clinics. They are afraid of being judged and concerned about their privacy.

What is the solution?

• Telemedicine, e.g., WhatsApp consultations.
• Peer education programmes in schools.

Additional Advice for Special Groups

1. LGBTQ+ Youths

As homosexuality is illegal in many African countries (31 out of 54 countries as at 2025) and cultural and public antagonisms are high, LGBTQ+ youths do face considerable challenges including discrimination, violence and even death due to their sexual orientations. Notwithstanding, be mindful to use condoms and barriers products at every sex act. 

2. Young People Who Live With HIV

Be sure to take your medicines as prescribed. Wear condoms to protect you and your partner. Talk about your status freely.

3. Sex Workers

Use condoms with every client. Get yourself tested frequently. 

Conclusion

Safe sex is not about protecting yourself against STIs or preventing pregnancy. It is about respecting and caring for yourself and your partner. It shows confidence and allows you to make more informed decisions about your health. Many teenagers and young adults struggle due to a lack of resources. Parents often fail to communicate with their children. Also, schools and communities usually lack sex education. Misconceptions are common, leading to risky choices. But together we can build a future where everyone is safe, healthy, empowered, and heard.

Remember:

• Use condoms every time.
• Get yourself examined often.
• Engage in a conversation with your partner and show respect for their choices and decisions.
• Always seek permission, whether you are married or not.
• Learn and share the facts.
• Support each other.

FAQs:

1. My partner does not want to use condoms. What should I do?

Communicate your concerns with your partner. Explain to them why it is important for both of you to use protection.

2. Can I get STIs from kissing?

Yes, some STIs, such as Herpes, can spread through kissing. If you and your partner experience sores or blisters, it is best to avoid kissing until they heal.

3. What should I do if I have an STI?

Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Getting tested and treated early can prevent the infections from spreading to others.

 

Resources:

1. Bain LE, Ahinkorah BO, Seidu AA, Budu E, Okyere J, Kongnyuy E. Beyond counting intended pregnancies among young women to understanding their associated factors in sub-Saharan Africa. Int Health. 2022 Sep 7;14(5):501-509. doi: 10.1093/inthealth/ihab056. PMID: 34520526; PMCID: PMC9450639. Available from here 

2. Change Care Foundation, Highest Teen Pregnancy Rates Worldwide. [Internet, n.d.]. Cited July 2, 2025. Available from here

3. Better Health Channel, (Australia). Safe sex. [Internet, n.d.]. Cited July 2, 2025. Available from here

4. NHS.UK, Methods of Contraception, Condoms. [Internet, n.d.]. Cited July 2, 2025.. Available from here.

5. Diura-Vere O, Mokgatle MM, Oguntibeju OO. Sexual Behaviour and Attitudes towards Safe Sex of Youth Receiving Antiretroviral Care at Public Health Facilities in Palapye District, Botswana. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2023 Feb 21;20(5):3790. doi: 10.3390/ijerph20053790. Available from here

 6. Achen D, Fernandes D, Kemigisha E, Rukundo GZ, Nyakato VN, Coene G. Trends and Challenges in Comprehensive Sex Education (CSE) Research in Sub-Saharan Africa: a Narrative Review. Curr Sex Health Rep. 2023 May 6:1-9. doi: 10.1007/s11930-023-00362-1. Epub ahead of print. Available from here.

7. Widman L, Choukas-Bradley S, Noar SM, Nesi J, Garrett K. Parent-Adolescent Sexual Communication and Adolescent Safer Sex Behavior: A Meta-Analysis. JAMA Pediatr. 2016 Jan;170(1):52-61. doi: 10.1001/jamapediatrics.2015.2731. Available from here

 

 

Published: May 21, 2025

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