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19th April 2015
05:00pm BST

It’s not all about symptoms
Not all STIs have symptoms. For example, most people who have chlamydia don’t notice symptoms. In some countries, STIs may be more common, so having unprotected sex could put you at even more risk than normal.
Check the safety mark
Condoms can help to reduce the risk of pregnancy and STIs. Buy condoms before you go and make sure that they have the CE mark on it. This means that they have been tested for the high safety standards required in Europe.
Remember, condoms can be damaged by oil-based products to include sunscreen, moisturiser, baby oil and liquid. They can also be affected by heat so they should be stored in a cool, dry place.
Feeling queasy?
If you pick up a stomach bug while you are away – or indeed at any time – bear in mind that vomiting and diarrhoea can make the contraceptive pill less effective.
Some medicines can also affect the effectiveness of the pill, patch and implant.
If you’re worried…
If you are worried that you may be pregnant or have an STI you can get checked with your GP or sexual health clinic.
This should be done as soon as possible.
How much do you know about safe sex?
Take this safe sex test from NHS Choices to see how much you really know about contraception and sexually transmitted infections.
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