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What are barrier methods and how do we use them? How to use Condoms, Dental dams, & gloves! BARRIER METHODS Barrier methods are the most reliable way to prevent STI transmission between sexual partners, and can also be used as a form of contraception. At Sex Out Loud, we recommend using a barrier method and a second contraceptive method if any of our partners may be at risk of pregnancy. Check out our page on contraceptive methods! INSERTIVE CONDOMS What Are Insertive Condoms? Insertive condoms, also known as male condoms, are barrier methods that are used by the insertive partner during sex. They are the most common barrier method in use today and are 98% effective at preventing unwanted pregnancy and STIs. They can be used to prevent both pregnancies during male-female intercourse and the spread of STIs between any partners during anal, oral, or vaginal intercourse. They're available in a variety of sizes, shapes, textures, materials, and also flavors for oral sex. How do you use an Insertive Condom? Insertive condoms are rolled over what is being inserted, such as a penis, toy, or fingers. It is important to know how to properly use insertive condoms, because not properly using them can lead to failure, increasing the chances of unplanned pregnancy or the spread of STIs. Once this is complete, begin rolling the condom onto the penetrative object. Make sure to leave room for fluids to collect inside the condom by pinching the tip while you roll it on. Leaving some extra room also decreases friction, lowering the chance of breakage. If using a condom on a penis, make sure to pull out right away after ejaculation. If a penis goes flaccid before you pull out, the condom can slip off and expose you and your partner to unwanted fluids. Once out, turn away from your partner, slip the condom off, and throw it away. Condoms are one-time use only and should always be tossed in the garbage, as they will clog toilets. Also, remember not to double bag: the increased friction between two condoms can increase the chance of breakage. There are three steps to follow before opening a condom: Wash your hands (oils—such as those found in lotion, pizza, and naturally on skin—degrade condoms). Check the expiration date. Feel for the air bubble in the package to ensure that the condom isn't compromised. What Are Receptive Condoms? Receptive condoms, also known as female condoms, are a barrier method used by the receptive partner during sex. They can be used to prevent both pregnancy during male-female intercourse and the spread of STIs between partners during anal or vaginal intercourse. They are 98% effective at preventing unwanted pregnancies and STIs. How do you use an Insertive Condom? Receptive condoms are inserted into the vagina or the anus of the receptive partner during intercourse. It is important to know how to properly use receptive condoms, because not properly using them can lead to failure, increasing the chances of unplanned pregnancy or the spread of STIs. Once this is complete the receptive condom can be inserted into the vagina or anus. Receptive condoms include a ring on the inside for vaginal use. This holds the condom in place against the cervix. To insert into the vagina, twist the ring into a figure-eight and begin feeding it into the vagina. Once inserted, there will be material left outside of the vagina, covering the vulva. To use anally, the ring should be removed. After this, the condom can be inserted into the anus using a finger or two to feed it in. Some material will remain outside the anus covering the area around it. There are some things to consider when using a receptive condom. One is that you should "shoot for the hoop." Make sure the penetrative object is being inserted into the opening of the condom. If it goes outside the opening of the condom, that defeats the purpose of using a barrier method in the first place. Also, if the condom is being used anally, but also vaginally, make sure it is not being pushed to far into the anus or vagina to the point at which it either needs to be fished out or fluids are able to escape the condom. Once you're done, the condom can be removed by twisting the material left outside the vagina or the anus so that fluids inside the condom cannot escape, after which is can be slowly pulled out and thrown away. Receptive condoms are one-time use only and should be thrown in the garbage. They will clog a toilet. Also, remember not to double bag: the increased friction between two condoms, even between an insertive and receptive condom, can increase the chance of breakage. There are three steps to follow before opening a condom: Wash your hands. Check the expiration date. Feel for the air bubble in the package to ensure the condom isn't compromised. RECEPTIVE CONDOMS What Are Sex Dams? Sex dams, also known as dental dams, are a type of barrier method used for oral-anal contact, oral-vulvar contact, or any other type of oral contact on the surface of the body. They can be used by individuals of any gender or sexual identity. Sex dams are available in a variety of scents. How do you use an Sex Dams? Sex dams are easy to use. They are sheets of latex that are placed over whatever area of the body is being stimulated orally. They cannot be used more than once, moved to different parts of the body, or flipped over. This increases the chances a partner gets exposed to STIs. Remember to wash your hands before you use them, because oils can degrade a latex dam. SEX DAMS What Are Latex Gloves? Well, latex gloves are exactly what they sound like: they're much like the ones you would find at the doctor or dentist's office. How do you use Latex Gloves? Latex gloves can be used for a variety of things. They can be used for any form of manual sex, including fingering or fisting. They're especially good if one partner has a cut or open sore on their hands or fingers, but would like to finger or fist without exchanging bodily fluids. In addition to that they can be used during kink play that may include exposure to bodily fluids that can transmit STIs. LATEX GLOVES LORALS What Are Lorals? Lorals are sex dams underwear that come in different cuts, colors, scents and sizes! They come in sizes 0 - 20 and include shorts and bikini cut. They even come in black or pink and are scented like vanilla. They’re also a great disability friendly option for anyone with mobility issues who may struggle with holding a sex dam in place Email Ask.sexoutloud@gmail.com if youre interested in FREE Lorals

Our programs include a mix of interactive activities, guided group discussion, and presentation by trained peer facilitators. Typically, programs last anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes. Request a Program All programs offered both virtually and in person. Our programs include a mix of interactive activities, guided group discussion, and presentation by trained peer facilitators. Typically, programs last anywhere from 60 to 90 minutes, but we are happy to change the duration or modify the content with advanced notice. IF YOU ARE SEEKING TO REQUEST A SEX OUT LOUD PROGRAM, PLEASE CLICK Programs are scheduled during Sunday staff meetings! Depending on when your request is submitted, it may take up to ONE WEEK for a confirmation. Please plan accordingly with dates & times requested. Here Got more questions? Email Sexoutloud.program@gmail.com Ethical Porn Safer Sex Adv. Pleasure Accessibly Sexy Birth Control Pleasure Sex Jeopardy Lgbtq + Adv. Sex Jeopardy Greek Life Sexability Kink Sex and Healing HIV Bootcamp Masturbation Healthy Relationships Descriptions ETHICAL PORN (NEW) 90 Minutes Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Break down common assumptions/critiques of porn Understand what porn is and the key differences between ethical and mainstream porn Identify how fetishization and a lack of consent are perpetuated in mainstream pornography and challenge these ideas Practice media literacy with a focus on pornography in identifying how categories and visuals contribute to our viewing experience Challenge typical sexual scripts depicted in pornography SAFER SEX 90 Minutes Discussion and resource referral pertaining to sexual assault on UW campus Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Defining consent Interactive activities for bystander intervention Identifying and de-stigmatizing STIS STIs: testing & treatment activities Introduction to unplanned pregnancy and HIV ADVANCED PLEASURE 90 Minutes Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Science of sex positions Sex toys and how to use them Thinking outside the box in our sexual lives Communication tips & tricks for partners ACCESSIBLY SEXY 90 Minutes : Intro to Sex & Disability (NEW) Learn the basics of disability, including the social model Reflect on preconceived beliefs and misconceptions about disability Explore Spoon Theory and its implications in relationships Discuss bodily autonomy, consent, and self-determination Identify sexual accommodations and adaptive tools Gain knowledge about the accessibility features of sex toys and other access tools 90 Minutes PLEASURE Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Introduce the concept of sexual empowerment and pleasure Anatomical exploration of pleasure organs Explore sexual pleasure as a full body experience that includes all senses De-stigmatizing Sex and empowering personal autonomy Overview and preview of basic pleasure enhancing toys 90 Minutes LGBTQIA+ Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Introduction to identity and explore the nuances of assuming identity Understanding personal gender identity and societal constructions of gender Explore the embodied experience of Coming Out and reduce expectations and pressure pertaining to the experience of “Coming Out" 1-2 Hours SEX JEOPARDY Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Classic jeopardy game with a fun and sexy twist- Fun for all groups Get quizzed on interesting and informative questions on sexual health, identity, expression, pleasure, and sex! ADVANCED SEX JEOPARDY 90 Minutes Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Take on the challenge as a first-time Sex Jeopardy player or level up with new questions Get quizzed on interesting and informative questions on human sexuality including sexual health, identity, history, birth control, HIV/AIDS, Kink, and health care. 90 Minutes GREEK LIFE Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Define and discuss consent in various contexts Introduce the topic of intimate relationships, boundaries, preferences, and personal identity Discussion of sexual implications of norms and actions in the campus community and Greek community that do not emphasize consent to challenge rape culture Discussing bystander intervention tactics as well as sexual violence reporting resources SEXABILITY 90 Minutes : Adv. Sex & Disability (NEW) Understand the importance of accessible sex education and existing barriers Discuss communication for relationships and intimacy with a focus on disabled individuals Identify sexual accommodations and adaptive tools Gain knowledge about the accessibility features of sex toys and other access tools Explore bodily autonomy, addressing the disproportionate amount of sexual violence faced by disabled individuals BIRTH CONTROL, AUTONOMY, & JUSTICE 90 Minutes Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Explore various Birth Control Options, Visuals, and Efficacy Facilitate Discussion of various impacts of diverse contraceptive methods Focus on autonomy of choice, communication, and accessibility in relation to reproductive health Identify differences and values among Birth Justice and Reproductive Justice HIV BOOTCAMP 90 Minutes Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Walkthrough of biological and physiological mechanisms Treatment options including Pre-exposure, Post-exposure Explore the harm and history of stigma surrounding HIV & AIDS Differentiate between HIV & AIDS Discussion of HIV+ status and supporting community members who are positive. 90 Minutes HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Explore personal identity and asserting personal boundaries Explore different types of relationships and relationship abuse Practice healthy communication tips & techniques Facilitate Conversations on dating/sexual/domestic violence Recognize Different Forms of Abuse Evaluate and reflect on the different kinds of love languages KINK 90 Minutes Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices A Sex-Positive Approach to understanding informed, safe, consensual, kink Overview of sexuality and eroticism Explore and impliment different consent models Discussion of fetishes Explore safety, pleasure, and communication for engaging in KINK & BDSM SEX & HEALING 90 Minutes Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Introduce what sexual healing is, how trauma affects ones sex life, the different ways to heal from sexual wounds Facilitate space and implement tools for practicing Mindfulness Techniques Understanding and communicating sexual pain and discomfort Practice Advocating for Self and Seeking Help From Healthcare Providers Learn about prevention and alleviation practices against bodily trauma during sexual acts Communicating sexual pain with our partners MASTURBATION 90 Minutes Proper usage of barrier methods and safer sex practices Dispel common myths and shame surrounding masturbation Explore masturbation techniques and types of sex toys and their possible uses Explore how pornography can inform experiences with masturbation, sex, and intimacy Normalize self-stimulation and encourage pleasure-seeking activities

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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.

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

Volunteers have access to exclusive events/discussions with staff. This is an excellent way to get more involved with Sex Out Loud, expand your knowledge, build your resume, and promote healthy sex & sexuality. Promote Safer Sex BECOME A SOL VOLUNTEER Gain first-hand experience in making our programming, holding office hours, tabling, and building friendships across campus. Volunteers also have access to exclusive events/discussions with staff. This is an excellent way to get more involved with Sex Out Loud, expand your knowledge, build your resume, and promote healthy sex & sexuality. REQUIREMENTS Attend 1 Volunteer Orientation/Training (occurs once a semester) Hold 1-2 office hours a week Attend bi-weekly volunteer meetings (flexible) Attend volunteer banquet to celebrate your hard work! OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES Work at tabling events Work on continuing education projects Attend staff/volunteer bonding Create stickers, pamphlets, etc. Email engagement.sexoutloud@gmail.com for more information on ways you can get involved. Mail Create & Learn We encourage volunteers to Research Sexual Health, create sticker designs, and pamphlets. As well as overall being a part of our office community. Attend Volunteer Meetings! Explore topics of interest, participate in group activities and take part in workshops!

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.

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

Providing university students with comprehensive, accessible, and pleasure-based sexuality education since 1998. QUICK LINKS Sexual Health Pamphlets SOL News Letter Archive Approved Brands Pregnancy Lubrication Our Consent Model Library Inventory Podcast STI's Barrier Methods Birth Control Ask SOL