Sex on the beach: the health concerns

Which countries have the worst problems with STIs?
All countries have problems with sexually transmissible infections - in the UK for example, our rates of infection are increasing every year. While statistics from some countries in Africa suggest that over ten per cent of the population are living with HIV, it is estimated that more than two million people in Europe are HIV positive. You can check some of the statistics at the following site: http://www.avert.org/statindx.htm. It is safest to assume that any person you meet on holiday is a potential source of infection with genital warts, herpes, Chlamydia, gonorrhoea, syphilis or HIV, for example. If you still want to have sex with them, always use a condom.

Is foreign contraception reliable?
Different countries often have different standards sizes for condom width - in Singapore for example, they are usually 52mm in width, but only 49mm in Thailand. If you and your partner are going on holiday together and use condoms, take more than you think you will need with you as you may not be able to get your normal size abroad. Condoms in different countries will also be made to varying safety standards. Condoms can never offer 100 per cent safety, but used properly, they are very reliable and give good protection against pregnancy and STIs - only use condoms bearing marks from ISO (International Standards Organisation), the European CEN or the American ASTM. Check packagings of 'fundoms' for small print which often states 'Not to be used as a barrier'. And don't forget to pack your contraceptive pills and any other regular medication you might need.

What about foreign healthcare?
Whenever planning a trip abroad, check which vaccinations you will need two to three months in advance so you have plenty of time to fit them in and get them protecting you before you go. A free leaflet, Health Advice for Travellers is available by phoning the Health Literature Line on 0800 555 777. You can also visit www.travelhealth.co.uk and www.masta.org for information. Always take a basic first-aid kit with you to cope with minor illnesses, and ensure you have holiday health insurance in place in case you need to seek medical care abroad. Your hotel can usually recommend a local doctor if you need an urgent appointment.