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OUR STAFF Evan (He/Him) Chair/Program Coordinator Hello and welcome! My name is Evan L., I use he/him pronouns and I am the Program Coordinator/Chair here at SOL! I’m currently a junior studying Life Sciences Communication and Gender and Women's Studies! My work at SOL focuses on increasing access to HIV/AIDS education as well as PrEP/PEP. I’m currently working on an initiative to increase emergency contraception access on campus. In my free time, I like hanging out with friends, going on lakeshore path walks, and trying new coffee/breakfast places on campus! Vivian (She/her) Finance and Analytics Coordinator Hi! My name is Vivian and I'm the Finance and Analytics Coordinator at Sex Out Loud. I am a junior studying Molecular and Cell Biology and Data Science. I love to learn about sex, relationships, and how we talk about these topics. I am especially passionate about sociolinguistics and endocrinology and how it interacts with our sexual behaviors! In my free time, I like to spend time with friends, cook, and work on whatever little project I am up to at the time! Jenessa (She/Her) Program Facilitator Hi!! I’m Jenessa (she/her) and I am a senior majoring in Sociology and Gender Studies with certificates in Educational Policy Studies, Educational Services, and LGBTQ+ Studies. I am invested in reforming educational spaces to increase inclusive practices, the accessibility of comprehensive sex ed, and creating a culture of consent. In my free time, I love to watch musicals, read, workout, and play board/card games with friends. I’ve also been learning to cook and bake a bit more, with banana bread and homemade oat milk as recent favorites. Send me recipe recs!! AJ (They/Them) Program Facilitator Hello! My name is AJ. I am a senior studying Wildlife Ecology and working towards certificates in Photography, Environmental Studies, and Leadership. This will be my fifth semester working as a program facilitator, and I am super excited to continue learning about sexual health and pleasure. I am passionate about pleasure activism and the intersectionality of sexual identities and disability as well. Outside of Sex Out Loud, I enjoy going to anime conventions, listening to music, playing video games, and going paddle boarding. Oz (They/Them) Event Coordinator Hi! My name is Oz. I am a senior studying Gender and Women’s Studies and Conservation Biology. My coursework explores topics of Queer studies, intersectionality, and reproductive justice as it relates to access, spirituality, and interconnectedness with the Earth. Outside of school, I spend a lot of time with my cat, a tortoise shell named Brooklyn. I enjoy anything outdoors and have big dreams of a garden someday (for now I make do with my house plants). River (He /She/They) Outreach & Marketing Coordinator I’m currently pursuing dual degrees in Art and Rehabilitation Psychology, along with a Certificate in Social Justice and Education. Born and raised in Milwaukee, I'm deeply committed to improving access to sex education in Wisconsin, especially for marginalized communities. I’m particularly interested in the overlap of sexuality and disability, exploring how these identities intersect and how to empower individuals. I'm incredibly thankful for the opportunity to contribute to this mission through my role at Sex Out Loud. When I'm not at Sex Out Loud, you can find me exploring history, mythology, or listening to audiobooks in the studio. Tessa (She/Her) Program Facilitator Hello! My name is Tessa and I’m a program facilitator here at Sex Out Loud. I’m a freshman majoring in Neurobiology with a certificate in Health and the Humanities. My hobbies include volleyball, reading, cooking, and jewelry making. I’m interested in learning more about current research methods in sexual health studies, the science behind pain and pleasure, and the evolution of queer sexuality and its impacts on popular culture. Kaleb (He/ Him ) Program Facilitator Hello I’m Kaleb, I'm a program facilitator at Sex out loud. I'm studying biochemistry and neurobiology on the pre-med track. I’m passionate about health equity, sexual health education, and community engagement. In my free time, I enjoy reading manhwa and manhua, listening to music and cooking. Abygael (They/Them ) Program Facilitator Hi! I’m Abygael, a Program Facilitator at Sex Out Loud. I’m currently a Sophomore on a Pre-Nursing track and majoring in Gender & Women’s Studies! In my free time I like to crochet, do my makeup, spend time outside, and watch too many medical dramas for my own good. I’m super interested in contraceptives, reproductive justice, and healthcare access! I’m beyond excited to learn more this year and meet new people. Maddie (She/Her) Engagement Coordinator Hi my name is Maddie and I use She/Her pronouns, I am a junior studying art and art history! I am an Engagement Coordinator for Sex Out Loud, I’m passionate about sexual health, history, and liberation movements. I love music, baking, and showing off my matching ceramics set. James (He/Him) Outreach & Marketing Coordinator (In Training) Hi! My name is James Norcross, and I use he/him pronouns. Currently, I am a double major in both English and Journalism and am doing a certificate in 2D Studio Art! Here at Sex Out Loud, I am a Marketing and Outreach Coordinator and am very passionate about using eye catching, unique graphic design to spread the message about sex positivity to educate as many people as possible. In my spare time, you’ll find me sketching, making music, or biking around Madison. Vishnu (She/Her) Program Facilitator Greetings! I’m a senior majoring in Biology with a certificate in Health and the Humanities. In my time at Sex Out Loud, I aim to build knowledge in the prevention and treatment of STIs and contribute to the organization’s STI educational efforts. When I’m not victim to the grindset, I love analyzing media with my best friend, being my boyfriend’s sous chef, doing board game nights with my gaggle of goons, reading dense fantasy novels, and drawing erotica! Leo (They/Them ) Program Facilitator Heyy! My name is Leo and I am a junior majoring in Wildlife Ecology and Life Science Communication. In my time here at Sex Out Loud I seek to further educate myself and make educating others on sexual health topics fun! Im passionate about queer and trans sex education and inclusivity. In my personal life, I enjoy experimental and strange-sounding music (open to recommendations), the great outdoors, arts & crafting, and fashion. I hope to see you around the office :)! Tyler (He/Him ) Program Facilitator Hello! I am currently a sophomore studying art education. I am involved with The Issue club on campus. In my free time I enjoy listening to music, watching films, thrifting, playing card games, and taking care of my plants! Continuing Ed is a set of projects that staff and volunteer members can work on throughout the semester to improve their sex education knowledge as well as inform their peers. Examples of Continuing Ed projects include: Zines, pamphlets, presentations, or new programs. These projects can cover a wide variety of topics like Menstruation, PreP, LGBTQ+, and so many more! Continuing Ed What is it and who is involved? Evan Loftus This semester, I am working on our Sex After Dark event that we will be having in April during Sexual Health Week. This event, provides a space for students to ask anonymous questions in a judgement free and non-stigmatizing environment. I additionally am working on some documents that’ll help support us during peer-to-peer counseling sessions.

We Hire every semester! Join our team, providing university students with comprehensive, accessible, and pleasure-based sexuality education. Employment Sex Out Loud maintains hiring periods during both the Fall and Spring semesters. Any UW-Madison student is eligible to apply! Check here for updates on our hiring cycles. We strongly encourage LGBTQ+ persons, people of color, and self-identifying men to apply! Program Facilitator Application Events Coordinator Application Engagement Coordinator Application POSITIONS PROGRAM FACILITATOR Hours: 12/week Wages: $15/hour The Program Facilitators facilitate the free, fun, interactive, and educational programs (workshops) provided by Sex Out Loud. Program Facilitators travel to dormitories, sororities, fraternities, places of work, places of residence, social gatherings, or other organizations to educate campus and community members on the topics of safer sex, relationships, pleasure, kink, birth control, STIs, HIV/AIDS, LGBTQ health, and any other specialty sexual health topics that may be requested. Program Facilitators are expected to be up-to-date on sexual health information through continuing education and training; successfully create and maintain safe spaces to discuss issues of sexuality; and be prepared to answer any sexual health questions accurately to the best of their ability. Program Facilitators are also required to participate in program development and updating current programs. FINANCIAL COORDINATOR Hours: 18/week Wages: $15/hour The Sex Out Loud Financial Coordinator handles all of the finances of this student organization. Duties include: creating and updating the Sex Out Loud budget; creating and delivering budget proposals in front of SSFC; overseeing all purchases; paying all Sex Out Loud bills and invoices; overseeing staff payroll; attending mandatory SSFC and ASM finance meetings; meeting all SSFC, GSSF, and ASM deadlines by completing and delivering any required forms and paperwork. This position is directly responsible for handing the SSFC paperwork as well as biweekly payroll and purchasing supplies. EVENT COORDINATOR Hours: 16/week Wages: $15/hour The Sex Out Loud Events Coordinator plans and implements four major events per year: Condoms and Candy in October, National HIV & Aids Awareness, National Condom Week in February, and Sexual Health Week in April. The Event Coordinator designs activities, invites speakers, plans workshops, and gets access to venues for the events. They are also responsible for designing activities, inviting speakers, planning workshops (event activities), and gaining access to venues for the events. The Event Coordinator is encouraged to use creativity and innovation to expand on past events and collaborate with other student and community groups. This position is responsible for creating events and promoting Sex Out Loud programming to the university enabling students to decide if they wish to utilize Sex Out Loud programming. MARKETING & OUTREACH COORDINATOR Hours: 16/week Wages: $15/hour The marketing and outreach coordinator will be responsible for meeting and networking with the larger campus and city communities to promote Sex Out Loud programming as well as other collaborations.The marketing and outreach coordinator is expected to create flyers and marketing materials to promote Sex Out Loud.The marketing and outreach coordinator is expected to keep the staff current about past, present, and future outreach events. Finally, the marketing and outreach coordinator is expected to maintain the official Sex Out Loud website and all social media platforms. ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR Hours: 16/week Wages: $15/hour The Sex Out Loud Engagement Coordinator networks with the larger campus and city communities to promote Sex Out Loud programming as well as other collaborations. Their job is to maintain a large presence on campus. This includes promoting Sex Out Loud; maintaining contacts with other student organizations and university branches to collaborate in programming and events; setting up regular ‘tabling sessions’ whenever relevant; and running the volunteer program. CHAIR - PROGRAM COORDINATOR Hours: 20/week Wages: $15/hour The Chair of the Organization is responsible for providing the staff fall and spring training. The chair is expected to provide the staff with other opportunities for ongoing learning and professional development.The chair will also make every effort to provide high quality programming to the wider student and campus community. The chair is responsible for scheduling and booking all programs in a timely and professional manner in addition to helping create new or specialized programming. The chair is responsible for supervising and evaluating the program facilitators. Additionally, the chair is required to fill out RSO Registration documents and GSSF eligibility criteria paperwork on an annual basis.

STIs are more likely to be passed along when we are too embarrassed to talk about them. We encourage you to help eliminate the stigma around sexuality and STIs by talking to your friends and partners about testing and condoms with confidence. SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS STIs are more likely to be passed along when we are too embarrassed to talk about them. We encourage you to help eliminate the stigma around sexuality and STIs by talking to your friends and partners about testing and condoms with confidence, and being accepting and affirming of partners who have an STI. We should get tested 1-2 times a year if we’re in a monogamous relationship and 3-4 times a year if we change partners more often (or just any time we’re worried about it!). MOST COMMON SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTION Chlamydia Chlamydia is the most common STI at UW-Madison! A bacteria passed along through fluids. Condoms are 98% effective at protecting against the spread of Chlamydia. It can cause clear discharge from the urethra opening of a penis, burning, itching, and scratching. Some people describe it as like“peeing razors”. But is often sneaky and we may have no symptoms at all. We can be tested for free at UHS! Chlamydia is curable with antibiotics, antibiotics cost about $15 with insurance depending on the plan. it's important to Follow the treatment regimen carefully and abstain from sex 7-10 days; even after symptoms go away to make sure it has completely cleared up. What happens when we don’t have health care? The Planned Parenthood (Madison South Health Center) on the south side of madison offers a lot of sexual health services, such as STI testing, pregnancy testing, emergency contraception, and birth control counseling and placement. They accept most insurance, including medicaid, but no one is turned away because of an inability to pay. Lack of insurance - There are a lot of people who have less access to healthcare due to a lack of insurance. This can make seeking out sexual and reproductive health much harder, and it impacts some people more than others. Don’t be afraid to advocate for your health and learn resources in your community; there are always people willing to help.

Sex Out Loud, UW-Madison's peer to peer sexual health resource. Providing university students with comprehensive, accessible, and pleasure-based sexuality education since 1998. Providing The University Of Wisconsin-Madison Campus Community Comprehensive, Accessible, and Pleasure-based Sexuality Education Since 1998 Request A Program ABOUT US Sex Out Loud's mission is to promote healthy sexuality through sex-positive education and activism. We acknowledge that each individual's sexuality is uniquely shaped by all facets of identity and experience. We seek to empower students to engage with these issues by providing inclusive and accessible programs, events, and resources, as well as safe spaces for reflection and discussion. Read More SERVICES Programs Sex Out Loud programs are a mix of interactive activities, guided group discussions, and presentations by trained peer facilitators. Events Four events weeks per year allow for keynote speakers, crafts, pole dancing, yoga, carnivals, and more! Office Find free safer sex supplies, an extensive library, free and confidential peer to peer counseling, and friendly staff faces! PROGRAMS OFFICE EVENTS SEE US ON CAMPUS Sex Out Loud Calendar Ask Us A Question

SOL Consent Model Sex Out Loud defines consent as... Clear Specific Fully understood No doubt Overt action and speech Informed STI Status Birth control method, barrier method, if there are other partners Not informed: Deceptive Continuous Consent is reversible! Consent can be revoked at any time Use Check-In systems (e.g stop light system, safe words) Freely given Absence of coercion or influence Not the absence of a no Don't assume yes is the default Why is Consent Important Respects autonomy: Affirms the right of us and our partner(s) to make our own choices. Supports well-being: Reinforces the importance of making decisions that feel safe and right for each person. Establishes clear boundaries: Promotes mutual understanding and helps prevent harm or discomfort.

Looking for ways to take action and support sexual positivity and equality? We've gathered organizations, funds, and petitions that align with our values to make it easy for you to contribute to a better world. Join us in making a difference, one action at a time. Take Action Looking for ways to take action and support sexual positivity and equality? We've gathered organizations, funds, and petitions that align with our values to make it easy for you to contribute to a better world. Join us in making a difference, one action at a time. "NNAF is a network of 100 abortion funds. Abortion funds are grassroots organizations that support people seeking abortion access. Together, we’re organizing at the crossroads of racial, economic, and reproductive justice." The National Network of Abortion Funds Abortionfunds.org Giving Tuesday for Planned Parenthood Action Fund, support activities to protect and promote reproductive health nationwide. All gifts will be DOUBLED by a generous donor, up to a total of $100,000, until midnight on November 28. Planned Parenthood Action Fund Plannedparenthoodaction.org "Since inception, the organization has been at the forefront of women’s health issues, through comprehensive public education initiatives that promote overall wellness of Black women." The Black Women's Health Imperative bwhi.org SUBMIT A ORGANIZATION OR PETITION Name/Title Enter URL Email OUR MISSION & VALUES Sex Out Loud's mission is to promote healthy sexuality through sex-positive education and activism. We acknowledge that each individual's sexuality is uniquely shaped by all facets of identity and experience. We seek to empower all students by providing inclusive and accessible programs, events, and resources, and by creating safe space where students can freely discuss these issues. Stigma reduction | Peer-to-peer | Pleasure-inclusive Consent culture | Inclusivity & Safer Spaces How does this Organization or petition align with SOL's mission? Submit Thanks for Submitting!

Work with Us Sex Out Loud is always looking for opportunities to collaborate with student organizations, campus groups, and community partners who share our commitment to sexual health, pleasure, and empowerment. Whether you’re looking to co-host an event, bring us to your space for tabling, or explore other creative collaborations, we’d love to work with you! Collaborative Events We love working with other organizations to create engaging, sex-positive programming that meets the needs and interests of diverse communities. Past collaborations have included: Clothing Swap with ReWear It WI – A sustainable event to break up with fast fashion. Aphrodisiac Workshop with The People's Farm and Slow Food UW – An exploration of food, pleasure, and intimacy. Sex-Positive Ad Libs with WUD Publications Committee – A fun, interactive night of sex-positive Mad Libs. If you have an idea for an event or would like to brainstorm one together, let’s talk! We’re always open to creative programming that aligns with our mission. Tabling at Your Event Want to make your event more inclusive, informative, and sex-positive? Invite Sex Out Loud to table! Our tabling includes: Free safer sex supplies (condoms, lube, & more!) Educational resources on consent, pleasure, & health Information about our workshops and services Friendly, knowledgeable staff ready to answer questions Tabling is a great way to provide valuable resources to your attendees while supporting a culture of informed and empowered sexuality. Fill Out a Tabling Request Let’s Work Together! If you’re interested in collaborating on an event or having us table at your event, reach out to us at Ask.sexoutloud@gmail.com . We’d love to connect and bring sex-positive education to more spaces across campus and beyond!

Pregnancy in college can raise many anxieties, fears, and questions. Find some answers to some of the most commonly asked pregnancy-related questions asked by UW Madison students! PREGNANCY FAQ Whether an exciting and intentional decision or completely unexpected, a pregnancy in college can raise many anxieties, fears, and questions as we make decisions which feel best for us moving forward. Below we provide some answers to some of the most commonly asked pregnancy-related questions asked by UW Madison students! There are no wrong answers in this journey! No matter what decision you make in your pregnancy, know that you are respected, supported, and fought for by Sex Out Loud. How do I know if i'm pregnant? Will UW Madison Help me? Will I qualify for government aid? How do I choose a doctor? What is a birth plan, and how do I develop mine? Title IX protects you! Title IX protects members of our campus community from discrimination against pregnant and parenting students on the basis of sex. A full list of protections can be found here! Pregnant and parenting student rights include: 1. equal access to schools and activities 2. to choose to participate in separate programs for pregnant or parenting students 3. to be excused for absences due to pregnancy or childbirth for as long as is deemed medically necessary by the student's physician 4. To attend class and school activities without submitting a doctor's note A non-exhaustive list of accommodations: parking permits, elevator keys, backdated withdrawals, incompletes, extended deadlines, excused absences. Navigating government aid can be a confusing process, and while we can't claim to be experts, we want to reassure you that there are programs in place to help. The following is a nonexhaustive list of government aid programs that may be handy to you and your family. WIC (Women, Infants, & Children) WIC serves: pregnant people, those who are breastfeeding, postpartum folks, infants, & toddlers and children up to 5 years of age Wide range of supports including formula and breast feeding support More information on eligibility SNAP (Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Programs) Formerly known as "food stamps" - functions as a debit card to purchase food items at authorized SNAP grocery stores and some farmers markets Eligibility based on specific resource and income limitations Badgercare Provides free or low-cost medical benefits to eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant folks, seniors, and folks with disabilities. More information on specific qualifications For further explanation of benefits including information on how to apply! You may qualify for benefits! Stack your team with people and providers you trust! You deserve healthcare that makes you feel safe & supported. Many factors contribute to a healthy pregnancy, but good prenatal care and a trusted healthcare provider can make all the difference! Primary Care Physician: Your first step! PCPs will confirm the pregnancy and help you choose a specialist to monitor your pregnancy moving forward. Some family practice providers will work to provide prenatal care and attend pregnancies. OB-GYN: Obstetrics deals specifically with pregnancy, while gynecology involves care to the entire reproductive system outside of pregnancy. OB-GYNs exclusively practice in hospital environments. Midwife: Work similarly to an obstetrician, though outside of surgical environments and can be a great option for lower-risk pregnancies. Midwives assist in deliveries that happen in hospitals, homes, or birthing centers. Doula: A doula works as a trained labor companion. While not trained healthcare professionals, they primarily work to offer emotional support throughout the pregnancy and work to advocate for your needs during birth. Doulas offer support and advice postpartum. Helpful Tips: Pregnancy tests are available for free at the Campus Women's Center and through UHS! The earliest signs of pregnancy often evoke symptoms similar to PMS in the body. These symptoms may include tender or swollen breasts, fatigue, slight bleeding or cramping, nausea, headaches, mood swings, or no symptoms at all! At the end of the day, the best way to tell if we're pregnant is to simply take a test! Urine pregnancy tests work by detecting levels of hCG (human Chorionic Gonadotropin), a hormone which increases rapidly in the body during pregnancy. During pregnancy, our body's hCG levels double every 36 - 48 hours with peak levels occurring at around 10 weeks. Blood tests, which test for the same hormone, are also available through our healthcare providers. Pregnancy tests are widely available but can drastically range in price. Pro tip: tests from the dollar store are a cheap and effective option! We can also pick up a test at any drug store, through UHS, the Campus Women's Center, online retailers, Planned Parenthood, & more! Stack your team with people and providers you trust! You deserve healthcare that makes you feel safe & supported. Many factors contribute to a healthy pregnancy, but good prenatal care and a trusted healthcare provider can make all the difference! Primary Care Physician: Your first step! PCPs will confirm the pregnancy and help you choose a specialist to monitor your pregnancy moving forward. Some family practice providers will work to provide prenatal care and attend pregnancies. OB-GYN: Obstetrics deals specifically with pregnancy, while gynecology involves care to the entire reproductive system outside of pregnancy. OB-GYNs exclusively practice in hospital environments. Midwife: Work similarly to an obstetrician, though outside of surgical environments and can be a great option for lower-risk pregnancies. Midwives assist in deliveries that happen in hospitals, homes, or birthing centers. Doula: A doula works as a trained labor companion. While not trained healthcare professionals, they primarily work to offer emotional support throughout the pregnancy and work to advocate for your needs during birth. Doulas offer support and advice postpartum. IF YOU ARE IN NEED OF MORE INFORMATION REGARDING RESOURCES REACH OUT TO SOL VIA EMAIL, SOCIAL MEDIA, OR IN PERSON

Help Sex Out Loud distribute condoms and other safer sex supplies throughout dorms, campus housing, classes, and other facilities. Promote Safer Sex BECOME A CONDOM CONDUIT Help Sex Out Loud distribute condoms and other safer sex supplies throughout dorms, campus housing, classes, and other facilities. REQUIREMENTS Attend 1 Volunteer/Training Orientation Afterward, you will email the Engagement Coordinator with your Full Name and Details of Who/Where you are supplying your safer sex supplies to (and notify them of any changes) the Attend Monthly Check-In with engagement coordinator Distribute Safer Sex Supplies to Campus, Condom Conduits will be provided training and supplies to distribute across the campus following the completion of training. Email engagement.sexoutloud@gmail.com for more information on ways you can get involved. Mail

Birth control, also known as contraception, is a safer sex tool that prevents pregnancy through either hormonal or non-hormonal methods. Find out more information on what types are available, and where we can access them. What is Birth Control? Birth control, also known as contraception, is a safer sex tool that prevents pregnancy through either hormonal or non-hormonal methods. Scroll below to find more information on what types are available, and where we can access them. ORAL CONTRACEPTION Also known as "the pill," the oral contraceptive pill comes in two different versions, as listed below. By taking the pill around the same time every day, it prevents pregnancy by elevating hormone levels so eggs aren't released during the time someone could be ovulating. Some pills also thicken the cervical mucus to create a more physical barrier to potential fertilization. Pros: potential to experience lighter, less painful, more regular periods, reduced acne easy to use, easy to control dosage Cons: have to remember to take it around the same time every day potential to experience sore breasts, change in sex drive, nausea, and depression EFFECTIVENESS: 99% with perfect use 91% with typical use COST: Without insurance: $10-113 /monthly With insurance: free under most plans Combination pill: estrogen/progestin combo 3 weeks of active pills, 1 week placebo which will allow for a monthly period Progestin only pill: also known as the mini pill, only contains progestin continuous active pills for a full menstrual cycle EFFECTIVENESS: 99% with perfect use 94% with typical use COST: Without insurance: $50- 120/monthly With insurance: free under most plans THE DEPO-PROVERA SHOT The shot is exactly what it sounds like. One shot covers your birth control for three months, after which we need to go in to get another dose. The shot contains progestin only, which prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs. It also thickens the cervical mucus to create a physical barrier between sperm and egg. Pros: private -- no tell tale signs or evidence of taking birth control potential to experience shorter or lighter period only need to worry about it every 3 months safe to take while breastfeeding Cons: must rely on a health care provider to administer contraception potential to experience irregular bleeding and weight gain no way to reverse the side effects of getting the shot until it wears off THE RING Also known by the brand name NuvaRing, this hormonal contraceptive method is a small bendy ring that works by slowly releasing hormones that prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs. It is placed inside of the vagina and left for three weeks, then taken out for a week. Pros: relatively little work to use, only have to remember to put it in and take it out once each month uses lower amounts of localized hormones Cons: have to be super comfortable with your body potential to experience sore breasts, spotting between periods, and change in sex drive EFFECTIVENESS: 99% with perfect use 91% with typical use COST: Without insurance: $10-113/monthly With insurance: free under most plans THE PATCH Just less than two inches long, the patch is a beige plastic sticker that can be stuck onto any part of the body (except by the breasts if we have them). It releases hormones which prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs, and thickens the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching an egg in the first place. One patch has enough hormones for an entire week until we have to switch it out for a new one. The week we choose not to wear a patch is likely the week we might get a period. EFFECTIVENESS: 99% with perfect use 91% with typical use COST: Without insurance: $30-44 /per patch With insurance: free under most plans Pros: easy to use, like using a bandaid only have to remember to switch it out once every 7 days potential to experience lighter, more regular periods Cons: only comes in one skin tone (beige) potential to experience irritation where the patch sits on the skin potential to experience change in sex drive less effective for bodies over 198 lbs THE IMPLANT Placed in a category called long acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), the implant is a small rod that gets placed in the upper arm. It slowly releases progestin, which prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs and thickens the cervical mucus. It can prevent pregnancy for up to four years, and they are currently running clinical trials to test for protection up to five years! Pros: only have to think about it every 4 years safe for those who smoke cigarettes, breastfeeding people, and people who cannot take estrogen may improve symptoms from endometriosis Cons: potential to experience initial irregular bleeding potential to experience change in sex drive, scarring from implantation, ovarian cysts EFFECTIVENESS: 99% with perfect use 91% with typical use COST: Without insurance: full cost of $450-$848 With insurance: free under most plans THE IUD Intrauterine devices (IUDs) come in non-hormonal and hormonal versions, which are explained below. They act as a physical barrier to preventing pregnancy, while also affecting the way sperm swim, thus greatly reducing the chance of impregnation. They offer up from 3-12 years of protection against pregnancy, but have to be inserted by a professional healthcare provider. EFFECTIVENESS: 99% with perfect use 91% with typical use COST: Without insurance: $ With insurance: free under most plans HORMONAL IUD: made of plastic release small amounts of progestin over time to thicken cervical mucus and prevent impregnation 4 different types available: Mirena, Skyla, Liletta, and Kyleena prevents pregnancy for 3-6 years (depending on type) NON-HORMONAL IUD: made of plastic with copper coil