How to Have A Safe One Night Stand

By Elena Ognivtseva

It's true that the best sex of your life is probably going to take place when you are in a loving, passionate and committed relationship with someone who you know inside out, however one night stands can also serve a purpose. I think I am safe in saying that most people start dating because they are intent on finding someone to have a relationship with, but this is not always the case. For example; if you have just gotten out of a long term relationship and you need time to heal and have a bit of no strings attached fun before looking for someone to settle down with, one night stands are ideal. One night stands can be amazing for forgetting your previous lover (the key to getting over one person is getting under another!), but should be treated with some sensible caution.

Below is my guide for keeping casual sex safe.

Choose your 'victim' carefully:

By this I mean don't just go for the first attractive man or woman who walks into the bar, but also don't sleep with a friend or someone for whom you having pre-existing emotional feelings. You want to go for someone who you could never see yourself dating, but who is sexually attractive to you. If you've just broken up with a long term lover the last thing you need is to end up wanting a relationship with your one night stand! Also, try to go for someone who is at least known to a friend or the staff at the bar so that you feel safe in their presence.

Let a friend know where you're going:

If you can't go back to your house because you live at home or have a huffy flat mate then text at least one friend the address of where you will be spending the night. You may also like your friend to call you the next morning to check you're ok and to provide you with a way of escaping! If your bed mate offers to make you breakfast then politely decline the offer and leave; your one night stand must only ever be about the sex. Also, try your best not to get too drunk and don't take any drugs as you will be very vulnerable in this state and your judgement with be impaired.

Practice safe sex!

I know it's a given but I thought I'd mention it. Always, always, ALWAYS use a condom during a one night stand to protect yourself from STIs and an unplanned pregnancy.