What’s good hookup sex? Birth control is used, you have fun, he has fun. In that order.

When you have sex in a committed relationship, it’s easy to understand why they call it making love. But, hot hookup sex has its place in life too. Both kinds of sex can make you feel alive and sexy. Both can bring out that amazing I-want-you-now lust. And both absolutely require protection against pregnancy and infection.

Especially hookup sex. And if you’re going to do it, you’ve got to be prepared.

Emotionally, you should be prepared to enjoy yourself in the moment. You shouldn’t have casual sex because some guy expects it or to satisfy someone else’s ideas of what it means to be an independent woman. Do it only if you want to and don’t regret a thing.

If it’s only a one-time hookup, be prepared to go your separate ways with good feelings about the hot moment you shared. Enjoy the memory. Don’t obsess.

If you find out that hooking up is not your thing, you don’t have to do it again. It’s ok to be more comfortable with monogamous sex. And it’s good to know that’s what you prefer.

Now, if you find yourself wanting more than a hookup, be prepared to have a serious conversation. If the sex showed you that you really want a relationship with this guy, you owe it to yourself to express that. You’ll never know if he wants it too, unless you share your thoughts. Brace yourself: There is the chance that he won’t want anything more than the hookup. Whatever the outcome, never forget how wonderful you are and be proud that you’re learning about what—and who—you want.

To prepare for the best hookup sex, first you should get on an effective method of birth control that feels right for you. Then, in addition to your method, make sure to wrap that guy up. When used correctly, condoms protect you from pregnancy and STIs. Roll them on the right way, pinch the condom tip to leave some room and remove air bubbles, then have him pull out after orgasm, but before he’s completely limp. Trojan’s new 2Go condoms come in a flat, discreet two-pack case that looks sort of like a credit card. It’s perfect for stashing in your pocket or purse when a hookup’s in your future.

Combining condoms with an additional birth control method is definitely the way to go for a hookup. Explore your options here.

Who loves you, baby,
Bedsider