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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

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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

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

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

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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

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!

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.

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!