We Have Free Safer Sex Supplies
Note: You can order free safer sex supplies from Boynton and can pick up your supplies within three business days of placing an order.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Not all sexually transmitted infections (STIs) cause symptoms, so you may not know if you’re infected. Practice safer sex to reduce risk to yourself and your partners. Some STIs can be transmitted through oral and anal sex. Others, like herpes and genital warts, can be transmitted simply through skin-to-skin contact. If left untreated, STIs can increase the risk of other infections and possibly lead to infertility.
Drop-in and Scheduled STI Testing
Note: Drop-in testing is limited to the two most common STIs — chlamydia and gonorrhea.
PrEP
PrEP is a highly effective medication designed to prevent HIV. When taken as directed, it can reduce the risk of HIV infection from sexual activity by approximately 99%.
It's important to note that PrEP is less effective if not taken as prescribed. PrEP solely protects against HIV, so using condoms to safeguard against other STDs is still essential.
Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception can stop a pregnancy before it starts. It can be used up to five days after unprotected sex, but is most effective when used as soon as possible. Emergency contraception does not cause miscarriage or abortion, but it will delay ovulation. Even if you are pregnant or become pregnant, it will not cause harm to a developing embryo. Emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Common side effects of emergency contraception include nausea and menstrual changes. There is no long-term harm with recurrent use. Schedule a contraceptive consult office visit to discuss contraceptive options if you need to use emergency contraception regularly.
Levonorgestrel (Plan B®)
Levonorgestrel (Plan B®) is available over-the-counter. It is most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse. Plan B may be less effective in those weighing more than 155 pounds.
Find it on the East Bank at Boynton Pharmacy or in a basement-level vending machine in Coffman Student Union. On the West Bank, vending is available on the lower level of Willey Hall. On the St. Paul Campus vending is available in the study space of Ruttan Hall.
Ulipristal (ella)
Ulipristal (ella) is an alternative emergency contraception. It is most effective when taken within 5 days. It may be less effective in those weighing more than 195 pounds.
This medication is only available by prescription from a provider.
- See our Emergency Contraceptive Options chart for more information about precautions, side effects, other product info, sexual assault resources and more.
- Anyone can purchase levonorgestrel (Plan B®) at a pharmacy (including Boynton Pharmacy) without a prescription. At Boynton Pharmacy, you may request to have a pharmacist bill your insurance for emergency contraception which is often fully covered.
- For people who are sexually active, Boynton Health recommends keeping emergency contraception available at home for use if your contraception method fails or if contraception was not used. This is because emergency contraception is most effective when used shortly after unprotected intercourse.
Note: Emergency contraception should not replace your regular birth control, and it does not prevent sexually transmitted infections. If you’re already pregnant, levonorgestrel will not harm the fetus. It only prevents pregnancy; it does not cause miscarriage.
Contraception Methods
You can schedule an appointment for a contraceptive consultation to get an implant, IUD, or Depo-Provera shot or to see if the pill, patch, or ring is an option for you.
Long-acting Reversible Contraception (LARC)
Note: Long-acting reversible contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Implant
The implant (Nexplanon) is a form of hormonal birth control. It contains progesterone and is inserted into the upper arm. The implant prevents pregnancy by stopping an egg from being released (ovulation). Many experience lighter periods, or no periods at all. If desired, the implant is easy to remove and should be replaced every three years. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
IUD
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are small T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus to prevent pregnancy. IUDs can prevent pregnancy from five to 10 years, depending on the type best suited for you, and can easily be removed at any time.
Depo-Provera shot
Depo-Provera shots contain progestin, a hormone that stops an egg from being released (ovulation). Depo-Provera lasts for three months, after which you will need to come in to receive another shot. It can take nine to 12 months for fertility to resume after you stop the shot.
Pill, Patch, & Ring
Note: Pill, patch, and ring contraception methods do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
The pill, patch, and ring all use estrogen and progesterone to stop an egg from being released (ovulation). You take the pill once a day, at the same time every day. The patch sticks on your skin and only needs to be changed once a week. You insert the ring into your vagina/front hole, leave it in place for three weeks, then take it out on the fourth week.
Condoms, Diaphragms, and Spermicides
Note: Diaphragms and spermicides do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Condoms/Diaphragms
These methods are called “barriers” because they provide a physical barrier between the sperm and the uterus. You should use barriers with a spermicide to prevent pregnancy. You can schedule an appointment for a contraceptive consultation to get a diaphragm, but condoms are available without a prescription at Boynton Pharmacy.
Condoms (internal & external) greatly reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.
Spermicides
Spermicides contain chemicals that immobilize or kill sperm. They come in a separate tube or can be found in a sponge that can be inserted in the vagina/front hole. They are not as effective when used alone and are best used in combination with condoms, diaphragms, or cervical caps.
Note: spermicides can increase your risk of STIs due to irritation of the cells that protect you from infection.
Additional Contraception Methods
Note: Natural family planning does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Natural Family Planning
This involves tracking normal menstrual cycles (periods), predicting possible days of ovulation, and avoiding having sex on those days. It’s best used by those with regular cycles and after tracking cycles for 6-12 months. This is an inexpensive, hormone-free option, however it can be difficult to adhere to. With perfect use this method is about 85% effective at preventing pregnancy. It is recommended to discuss this method with your healthcare provider before relying on it for contraception.
Abstinence
Abstinence is the decision not to have sex. It is the only way to completely prevent sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy. Remember that pre-ejaculate (pre-cum) can contain trace amounts of sperm, so pregnancy can still occur even without having penetrative sex.
Frequent Questions
When should I use condoms?
- Condoms can only prevent sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy if they are used for every type of sex, every time.
- Condoms will reduce the risk of transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during vaginal/front hole, anal, and oral sex. Condoms will also reduce the risk of pregnancy during vaginal/front hole sex. Using lube with a condom for any type of sex will reduce the risk of sensitive tissue tearing or condom breakage.
- For oral-vaginal/front hole and oral-anal sex, a dental dam should be used to reduce the risk of transmission of STIs.
How do I use a condom properly?
- Planned Parenthood video: A step-by-step guide on the proper use of condoms, and additional written information on the site.
- Sexplanations video: A casual explanation and demonstration by Dr. Lindsey Doe, a clinical sex edutainer. This video has information specific for people with intact (uncircumcised) penises.
Why are there different condom sizes?
- Just like clothes, condoms come in various sizes. In order to have safer and pleasurable sex, choosing the right size can make a difference in your sexual experience. Boynton Health recommends trying out different sizes and types of condoms to find your preference.
- Boynton Health offers three different condom sizes:
- Snugger fit condoms have a smaller ring size for people who prefer a tighter sensation.
- Standard condoms have a standard ring size that fits most.
- Magnum condoms have the widest ring size. Using a condom that is too big can increase the risk of the condom slipping off during intercourse.
What are internal condoms and how do I use them?
- An internal condom is also known as an “insertive condom”, or “female condom”. An internal condom is a soft, loose-fitting sheath with a ring at each end. The inner ring at the closed end is inserted into the vagina or anus, and the outer ring stays outside of the vagina or anus. FC2 internal condoms are not made with latex.
- Learn how to use an internal condom by watching this FC2 internal condom how-to video or reviewing the six-step guide.
- You can request no-cost internal condoms from Boynton Pharmacy, along with other safer sex supplies.
What are dental dams and how do I use them?
- A dental dam is a type of barrier method, like a condom. It is a thin, square sheet that is usually made of rubber. The dental dams are placed over the vulva or anus for oral-vaginal/front hole or oral-anal intercourse. Boynton Health offers latex dental dams that come in different flavors.
- Brown University Health and Wellness video: A guide on the proper use of dental dams, and alternative options if dental dams are unavailable or if you are unable to use latex.
What do I do with lube?
My Secret Luxury video: An explanation of how to use lubricants to promote sexual health.
Which lubricant should I use?
- There are many different types of lubricants available in the market, and choosing the right one for you can be confusing.
- The Our Bodies Ourselves website can help you understand which lubricants are the best for you based on your preferences.
- Boynton Health offers water-based lubricants and silicone-based lubricants.
What if I am allergic to latex?
- Boynton Health provides no-cost Lifestyles brand latex-free condoms by request. You can make a non-latex dental dam out of a latex-free condom.
- Learn how from this Brown University Health and Wellness video.
I want to talk about my sexual health. Who can I talk to?
- All questions about sexual health are important. Please schedule an appointment to address your sexual health questions and concerns. Appointments can be scheduled online or by calling 612-625-3222.
- If you’d like to talk to someone in person, please make an appointment. Or, if you have a question for a nurse, you can call the Boynton Health Nurse Line at 612-625-7900. This number is answered 24 hours a day.