Contraceptives

What are contraceptives? They are a form of birth control.

Many know the common contraceptive AKA male condoms. However, there are many other options out there besides male condoms such as:

• IUD

• Birth control pills

• Birth control shot

• Diaphragm

• Spermicide

• Cervical cap

• Female condom

• Birth control sponge

• Birth control patch

• Vaginal ring

• Vasectomy

• Tubal ligation

• Birth control implant

WOAH, lots of options right? (Below you will find a picture of some of the few mentioned)

Sex is a big step one will take, and when doing so it is best to stay protected. No matter the age, gender, or person, protection is a MUST. Without taking these precautions you risk the odds of changing your life forever. Such as unexpected pregnancies or STIs like HIV (which sticks with you for life since there is no cure), chlamydia, genital herpes, genital warts, gonorrhea, and syphilis.

Most people believe you can only get an STI/STD through just sex. But let me be the one to tell you, you are at risk of getting an STI/STD through ANY sexual activity (yes, this includes oral sex, handjobs, fingering, and even messing with the anus). Although the chances are rare, it is best to stay cautious.

When I tell you this information, it isn't to scare you but it is to educate you. Our sexual education system sucks, and that's why I am here to help you out.

So....how do I prevent getting an STI/STD? PROTECTION!

When planning to have penetrative sex use a condom (internal/external). DO NOT RAW DOG IT UNLESS YOU WANNA RISK A BABY.

Just kidding, there are also ways to take caution like tracking your ovulation days on an app like Flo!

What is ovulation? Ovulation is when there is the release of an egg in the ovaries of a woman's body during their menstrual cycle (AKA when you are at the HIGHEST risk of getting pregnant, most people who want to have a baby have sexual intercourse during this time).

You can also buy Plan B(emergency contraceptive), which can vary from $30-$50.

However, although there are alternatives as such this DOES NOT mean you are going to be 100% protected. Chances without protection are still at 85%. This also DOES NOT mean you are not at risk of getting an STI/STD, chances are still high.

When planning to have oral sex, use condoms or dental dams!

If using a condom for oral sex, make sure to use another one for penetrative sex.

Dental dams? what is that? Dental dams are used to cover the vulva, vagina, and/or anus when giving oral sex. They are sorta like a condom! You can buy them, or make your own

with a rubber glove (make sure to clean it first!) or with a condom! (online is your best friend).

When wanting to use your hands for pleasure, make sure always to cut your nails, clean under your nails, make sure your hands are clean, and make sure there are not any cuts that can risk going on/into the other person's body.

Some other precautions that you can take are getting a finger glove, or making one! (many use condoms to improvise) try using clean latex or nitrile gloves.

If planning to use any lubricant, ALWAYS make sure it is water-based.

These are just a few precautious measures one can take, you can always find more online or at a local health center. Always stay safe and protected!