Let's talk about sex

A sexual warrant of fitness test will be one of the things available at the Positive Relationships Positive Sexuality expo tomorrow.

Family Planning health promoter Michelle Dawson said several health providers would be in Market Place to promote their services and encourage people to talk about health-related issues.

She said there would be free condoms and lubricant available, a competition in which people had to guess the number of condoms and a competition to win a Marquis Pleasure pack.

Mrs Dawson said coming into the festive season people often attended functions where there was alcohol available which could lead to bad decision-making.

"We want them to think about the safe sex messages, wear a condom and remember alcohol can alter decision-making where sexual relationships are concerned."

She said it was important to respect and show love for someone by practising safe sex.

Mrs Dawson said it was important for people of all ages to be open about their sexual health as people needed to be informed and be able to ask for advice.

The day will also mark National Aids Day, which is celebrated on December 1.

She said two quilts which commemorated more than 120 New Zealanders who had died from an Aids-related cause would be on display.

Each quilt panel had been made by family, friends, partners and lovers in memory of their loved one.

The expo will run from 11.30am until 4pm.

- The Marlborough Express