Hooking up, commonly known as engaging in sexual activity, has become more common as the stigma of sex has reduced in intensity. Hooking up may seem enticing, however it is important to be safe about it. Since hooking up tends to occur in the heat of the moment, it is important to consider the consequences and to communicate with your partner beforehand. This article aims to present steps to stay safe and healthy, as well as tips on how to prepare yourself mentally and emotionally.
Firstly, before you engage in any sexual activity with a new partner, you should always discuss whether you have both been tested. This can be awkward, however it is not worth the risk to avoid the conversation and just hope that your partner does not have a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). Getting tested is an easy procedure that you can get done at a doctor’s office or a clinic such as Planned Parenthood in the US or any low-cost health clinic in your area.
Hooking up can be an enjoyable activity, but along with using protection you should also discuss your options with your partner about your plan if a pregnancy does occur. Your options can include abortion, adoption, or raising the child. Talk about what you would prefer, to reduce any conflict should pregnancy occur. Talking about protection and pregnancies might seem like it ruins the mood, but in order to have safe sex, maturity is required. The only way to completely prevent pregnancy would be to remain abstinent.
Additionally, if you plan on hooking up with someone, you want to be sure there is protection involved. Always use a condom if you plan to be engaging in sexual activities with someone new. The barrier method can protect you from STI’s as well as pregnancy. A second birth control method such as the pill or implant is highly recommended. Methods for protection should be discussed beforehand to ensure you are both prepared. Protection is also important in same-sex hookups as STI's can still be contracted through sexual activities such as oral sex.
Consent is also a key aspect of hooking up. Always make sure to receive verbal consent when engaging in sexual activities with somebody new so that you are both on the same page. It is a good idea to ask for consent before moving forward rather than making assumptions based on body language and visual cues. If alcohol or other substances are going to be used, it is important to obtain consent beforehand as being intoxicated decreases judgement. If a person is under the influence, they likely cannot give consent. It is okay to give consent and then retract it when things get heated up if you no longer feel comfortable. Be very clear and communicate with your partner so that you can both stay safe and comfortable with the situation.
Along with getting consent from your partner, make sure you have consent from yourself. If at any time you no longer feel comfortable with hooking up, speak up and don’t be afraid to back out from the situation or ask to slow down. Considering the consequences and how you feel mentally before engaging in sexual activity is crucial so you don’t get caught up in the moment and get hit with regret afterwards. Not everybody feels comfortable hooking up and that’s okay; there is nothing wrong with not wanting to.
Lastly, remember that hooking up does not make you a “slut” or any other derogatory word. Exploring your sexuality is nothing to be ashamed of, and it can be very healthy when done safely. If you want to try hooking up just once, that’s okay. If you want to hook up with multiple people instead of getting into a relationship, that’s okay too. The only thing that matters is that you are communicating and engaging in safe sex.
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