Sexual Health Page

Sexual Health: Birth Control

It’s your choice.

Whether you have already been sexually active for awhile or you are ready to experience sexual intimacy for the first time or have chosen abstinence, Health Services is available to help you make a safe, healthy decision and to answer any questions.

For Guys and Girls.

Birth control is just as important for guys as it is for girls. If a man doesn’t understand the basis of birth control, he won’t be able to act responsibly.

Before becoming sexually active both partners need to consider:

What kind of relationship are you seeking? Are you emotionally ready?

See Healthy Relationships http://www.mylaurier.ca/development/info/Relationships.htm

Consent

Both partners need to be comfortable with the decision and give consent. Are you feeling pressured to have sex?

Do not assume desire for affection is a desire for sex. Communicate clearly.

The fact that you were intoxicated is not legal defense to sexual assault. You are responsible for your actions, whether you are drunk or sober or high.

If you and your partner decide to become sexually active, you need to consider:

-         prevention of pregnancy. It takes a mommy and a daddy to make a baby. How will you prevent pregnancy?

-         STI’s prevention (Sexually Transmitted Infections). Many STI’s like chlamydia will have no symptoms of the infection. How will you protect yourself?

There are 2 methods of contraceptives, the hormonal method and  the barrier method.

Hormonal methods include:

Oral contraception – The Pill

Depo-Provera Injection

The Patch

The Vaginal Ring

Barrier methods include:

The Condom

Vaginal Spermicide

Diaphragm

Cervical Cap

Sponge

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

Sterilization

Withdrawal

Calendar Method

Abstinence

To find out what option is right for you, make an appointment at Health Services to discuss with a physician.