Sex ...

'Two-thirds have unprotected sex'

More than two-thirds (70%) of young women have had unprotected sex with a new partner, according to a new survey.

Despite being afraid of getting an STI (sexually-transmitted infection), 97% of young women do not carry condoms, according to a poll of 286 young women for Company magazine.

One in 10 said they were too embarrassed to carry them while the same number thought it was the man's job.

Almost half said they had caught an STI following unprotected sex or knew someone who had.
Rates of sexual infection are on the rise across the UK, with young people making up most cases of the most common STI, chlamydia.

Figures have shown an alarming rise in genital herpes among girls aged 16 to 19 - up 16% between 2005 and 2006.

The magazine, together with condom manufacturer, Durex, has recruited celebrities, including singer Dannii Minogue, to design condom tins.

Claire Irvin, acting editor of the magazine, said: "At Company we were shocked by the results of our survey. Our Play Safe campaign aims to start shifting attitudes and dispel the taboo that women don't need to or are too embarrassed to carry a condom. It's cool to take care of your sexual health - and it's cool to carry a condom."

Dannii Minogue said: "Infections are at an all-time high which is why using a condom has never been as important. I am wholly supportive of the Company Play Safe campaign and I think the tins are such an amazing idea.

"You've got something cute and discreet to slip your condoms into and you need never be unprepared and at risk of infection. Enjoy life."