Search Results

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

Who? What? Where? When? See Sex Out Loud events that are coming up. SEX OUT LOUD EVENTS Get Connected

Deciding which lube is the best is really a matter of personal preference and figuring out what you want to get out of your slippery sexual experience. Lube, Lube, Lube The Wetter the Better! Deciding which lube is the best is really a matter of personal preference and figuring out what you want to get out of your slippery sexual experience. WATER BASED Water-based lubrication is the most basic and generally the least expensive variety of lubrication. It is made by many different brands, so it is easy to find and it is a good place to start if you are just beginning your experimentation with lube. Simply add some lube to whatever you want and slip and slide away, but keep the lube bottle handy because water-based lubrication often requires reapplication. Water-based lubrication can be cleaned relatively easily with plain water, no soap required, and it also won't stain sheets or clothing if a spill should occur. One thing to keep in mind if you decide to use water-based lube is that many varieties—such as K-Y, Wet, and Astroglide—contain glycerin (sugar) and if you or whoever is going to be using the lube is prone to yeast infections, it will be worth your time to find a brand or type that is glycerin-free. Some water-based lubrication that do not have glycerin as an ingredient are Liquid Silk and Play. Other lubes that are water-based can be flavored. Flavored lube is for ORAL use only. There is a great deal more sugar in flavored lubrication, so it is in your best interest to keep them involved in oral situations only. At the Sex Out Loud office we carry the following brands: Slippery Stuff One Oasis Good Clean Love, Vegan Lube SILICONE BASED Silicone-based lubrication is really great if you are looking for a lubricant that is going to last for a long time. This is an "apply it and it's there until you wash it off" sort of lube. Silicone-based lube is great for anal sex because it is long lasting and you won't risk a water-based lubricant drying up. Silicone lube is not for use with silicone toys because the enzymes that keep the silicone a liquid at room temperature will bind to the silicone toy and literally melt it. Silicone-based lubrication is also not the lube to use when you have your favorite sheets on your bed because this lube will stain if it gets onto fabric. But don't let that deter you because silicone is a great lube to try, just lay a towel down and get to it! At the Sex Out Loud Office, we carry the following brands: One Move Velvet Backslide: Anal Formula LUBE WE CARRY *Descriptions from suppliers Almost Naked "delivers a smooth, long-lasting experience. So much so that it’s the top-selling organic lubricant in the U.S.* Almost Naked is water-based with silky, organic aloe that reduces irritation and enhances pleasure. It’s formulated to work with your body, not against it - pH balanced and with a touch of beneficial lactic acid. Almost Naked is also iso-osmolar. It won’t harm sensitive tissue or strip your natural moisture and leave you feeling dry or irritated." ONE, Oasis Silk Premium hybrid lubricant specially formulated to contain optimal amounts of both water and silicone to provide the advantages of both experiences. Longer lasting and silky. Easy to clean. pH balanced to match natural lubrication. Tested and proven compatible with silicone toys. Compatible with latex and polyisoprene condoms. Leaves skin smooth and hydrated. Developed with doctors and sexual health experts. Oasis Silk may be used during sex or anytime to alleviate discomfort and dryness. ONE, Oasis Silky, gentle formulation for more enjoyable intimate contact. Made from the finest quality ingredients Compatible with natural rubber latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane condoms Waterbased, oil-free lubricant for easy clean up Leaves skin hydrated and smooth Überlube "High-end luxury lubricant. Instead of just being slippery, Überlube is designed to transfer sensation while reducing friction. Überlube feels amazingly silky and performs as long as you’re using it. When Überlube stops being manipulated, it starts to dissipate, leaving skin soft and moisturized, never wet or sticky." Slippery Stuff "Slippery Stuff Gel is made with a special paraben and glycerin-free formula - making it safer for people with sensitive skin and allergies. Using a revolutionary new preservative derived from grains and plants, this all-purpose lube is specially blended to feel like your body’s own natural juices. And it's just as sleek and long-lasting as ever! The extra-thick gel is great for almost anything, including backdoor penetration, fun in the shower, toy play and marathon-long sex! Sippery Stuff is a water-based lube so you can use it safely with all types of condoms and sex toys." Backslide Thick, cushiony, smooth, and long lasting; ID Backslide is the perfect formula for anal sex and pleasure. This unique silicone lubricant not only has super slip, but also contains clove and spilanthes that act as a mild muscle relaxant. This makes penetration easier, but doesn't dull any of the pleasure. It's not only one of the best anal lubricants available, but also one of the thickest. As anal sex becomes more and more popular, Backslide is here to make it the best experience for everyone. Now couples can enjoy mutual pleasure without any of the difficulties, discomfort, or pain. Backslide can also be used as a vaginal lubricant, or for anything else you feel like lubricating. Backslide is clear, tasteless, and odourless. It's also latex compatible, so it's safe to use with most condoms. ONE, Oasis Silk a super-long lasting silicone personal lubricant. Made from the finest quality ingredients. Compatible with natural rubber latex, polyisoprene, and polyurethane condoms. Waterless & oil-free

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

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

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 Library Inventory Podcast STI's Barrier Methods Birth Control

OUR STAFF Rory (She/Her) Chair/Program Coordinator Hey! I’m Rory I’m double majoring in Spanish and Communication Sciences. I am passionate about equal access to comprehensive sex education, as well as sex positivity. In my free time I love taking long walks, listening to Crime Junkie Podcast, and brewing my own kombucha! Vivian (She/her) Financial Coordinator Hi! My name is Vivian (she/her) and I'm in-training for Financial Coordinator at Sex Out Loud. I am a Sophomore 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! Bella (Any Pronouns ) Program Facilitator Hi! My name is Bella. I am a junior studying Gender and Women’s Studies. I am passionate about queer studies and reproductive justice. In my coursework I love looking at the ways gender and queerness intersect with reproductive and birth justice. I am also interested in building sexual education that is more queer and disability inclusive. 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). AJ (They/Them) Program Facilitator Hello! My name’s AJ and I go by they/them pronouns! I am a neurodivergent nonbinary lesbian who is studying Wildlife Ecology and working towards getting certificates in photography and environmental studies. This will be my first semester as a program facilitator and I am super excited to explore all things sexual health and learn more about things like Pleasure Activism, PMDD, and the intersectionality of sexual identities and disability. Outside of Sex Out Loud, I enjoy paddle boarding, cosplaying, going to anime conventions, and listening to music. My favorite artist is Will Wood and my current special interest is Jujutsu Kaisen! Soph (She/Her) Program Facilitator Hi! My name is Sophia Koo and my pronouns are she/her. I am a newly hired Program Facilitator at Sex Out Loud. I am a Freshman majoring in Neurobiology and Graphic Design. I am interested in exploring the constructs of healthy relationships and communication beyond heteronormative dynamics, the history of intimacy, body image, self-worth, self-love, and ethical porn. In my free time, I can be found sketching or playing my guitar. Zora (She/Her) Event Coordinator Hi! My name is Zora Johnson, and I am an Event Coordinator for Sex Out Loud. I am pursuing a major in Legal Studies and a certificate in Public Policy here at UW – Madison. My passions lie in sexual health education, sexual health advocacy, and reproductive health policy reform, and I look forward to integrating these passions into my work at Sex Out Loud. Outside of my professional and educational pursuits, I love playing Minecraft, scrapbooking, watching trashy reality television, and hanging out with my two cats, Majesty and Persephone. Izzy (She/They) Program Facilitator Hello Hello! I’m Izzy, and my pronouns are she/they. I'm currently entering my junior year and am double majoring in Psychology, and Neurobiology, plus working towards certificates in Physics, and Mathematics. I'm very passionate about sex positivity, pleasure, and creating informative sex education that’s more queer and disability inclusive. I’m beyond excited and thankful for the opportunity to grow and educate through my role at Sex Out Loud. Outside of SOL, you can find me at the gym, painting, listening to music(ask me my fav song and tell me yours), or visiting fellow campus organizations! Maddie (She/Her) Program Facilitator My name is Maddie! My pronouns are She/Her and I am currently a freshman at UW. My major is undeclared but I love reproductive justice, fashion, cute jewelry, music, and dogs. Be sure to give thrift store recommendations! Evan (He/Him ) Program Facilitator Hello everyone, my name is Evan (he/him) and I am currently a freshman hoping to major in something in the STEM field! I am from Stoughton, Wisconsin, just 30 minutes from here. I am very excited to be a part of such an amazing organization. I am very passionate about PrEP education as well as sex positivity. In my free time, I love spending time with friends, listening to music, and going and trying new coffee shops. Zoë (She/Her) Program Facilitator Hi! My name is Zoë and I'm a Program Facilitator at Sex Out Loud. I am a Junior studying Human Development and Family Studies. I am interested in all things having to do with relationships, sex, love, and therapy. I hope to be a couple's counselor one day :) I am passionate about sexual education and sex positivity, so I am super excited to uphold Sex Out Loud's mission. In my free time, I like to write music, create art, and go to the beach! Nicole (She/Her) Engagement Coordinator Hi! I'm Nicole :) I’m double majoring in Biochemistry and Life Sciences Communication. I care about reproductive justice, body positivity, & comprehensive sex ed. Outside of Sex Out Loud I love playing video games in my spare time and cooking and baking to share with my friends! River (He /She/They) Outreach & Marketing Coordinator I’m an Autistic artist and advocate, 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. The intersection of sexual health education, disability advocacy, and social justice drives my work. 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. Hayden (He/ Him ) Program Facilitator My name's Hayden Bailey and I'm a Program Facilitator at Sex Out Loud. I'm a Sophomore double majoring in Journalism and Strategic Communications. My hobbies include hunting, hiking and exploring vibey music (I enjoy suggestions). I'm interested in furthering my own sexual education at Sex Out Loud by teaching others. Specifically, I hope to make a difference through informing Greek clubs about safe sex practices and consent. My topics of interest include masturbation and sexual expression. Katie (She/Her) Program Facilitator Hi! My name is Katie Drinan (she/her) and I'm a Program Facilitator at Sex Out Loud. I'm a junior and I'm double majoring in Psychology and Philosophy. I'm passionate about pleasure as well as open, educational discourse involving sex and pleasure, but I'm excited to fine tune my interests and goals while working with SOL! Some things I love to do are sewing little crafts, watching super old musicals, and going for runs and walks. 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? Mia Warren I am developing a program focused on educating emerging adults on ethical porn and porn literacy. My goal is to inform folks about how and where to consume ethical porn, evaluate harms present in mainstream pornography, and engage in media literacy strategies to become more informed consumers. I am also working on a Sex Work information pamphlet exploring the legalities behind Sex Work on a Global Scale.

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. 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 Get Involved Information OUR OFFICE Address 333 East Campus Mall Suite 3143 Madison, WI Contact 608-890-2138 Hours Mon - Fri 10:00 am – 6:00 pm Ask.sexoutloud@gmail.com Ask Us A Question 333 East Campus Mall Suite 3143 Our office is a safe and inclusive space where you can find our trained staff who are always excited to answer your questions! We offer free and confidential peer to peer counseling, a stocked library, board games, free safer sex supplies (including condoms, lube, sex dams, gloves, and more) and, of course, a giant penis piñata!

PAGE NOT FOUND You can return to the homepage and try again. Go to Home Page

Gain first hand experience in making our programing, Hold office hours, table, and build friendships across campus! GET INVOLVED Help us to distribute condoms and other safer sex supplies throughout dorms and campus housing! Click for More Condom Conduit Click for More Click for More Click for More Volunteer First-hand experience Holding office hours, tabling, and building friendships across campus! Click for More Employment Sex Out Loud will be hiring for spring semester soon! Check back here for more info. Check out our employment page! Email Engagement.sexoutloud@gmail.com for more!