FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS

“Friends with benefits” is a term used to describe two friends who agree to engage in sexual activity, but do not consider their relationship to be romantic. Research shows that there are many reasons an individual may become sexually involved with a ‘friend’ including:

• increased comfort level
• sex with no strings attached
• avoidance of a serious relationship
• a closer emotional connection with that friend
• a way of meeting sexual desires without a commitment

However, an individual may know little about his/her friend’s sexual history. Also, one or both partners may be engaged in relations with more than one “friend with benefits” at any given time. Having unprotected sex (including unprotected oral sex) can result in sexually transmitted infections. As well, having sex without a reliable method of birth control can result in an unplanned pregnancy.

Sexual involvement between friends can also complicate and often destroy friendships. One partner may ignore the other partner’s emotional desires, resulting in confusion, pain or anger. Ultimately, emotional turmoil can result if one friend develops strong feelings for the other, and this emotion is not mutual.

If you are thinking you may want to have a “friend with benefit”, educate yourself and always protect yourself from STIs and unplanned pregnancy through correct and constant use of a condom and reliable birth control. If you or your friend has had previous partners, get tested prior to becoming sexually involved. Be aware of the emotional impact that can occur and how these relations can affect your friendship.