Navigating Sexual Health
What You Need to Know about Birth Control and STIs
Ok. It’s time to talk all things sexual health…
If you're reading this, chances are you're entering a time in your life which is both exciting and kinda confusing. Or perhaps you find yourself encountering some situations as you're dating that are completely overwhelming and foreign to you. It can be confusing and overwhelming… especially if you grew up in a conservative environment and this stuff was all taboo.
But, guess what?! You don’t have to try to figure this out on your own. I'm here to help you navigate this and provide you with some information that you need to make informed decisions about your sexual health which benefits both your mind and body.
Let’s go!
Birth Control
One of the most important aspects of sexual health is birth control. Yes, we know that birth control is a way to prevent pregnancy… but how do we choose which birth control option is best for us? The most common types of birth control include condoms, the pill, the patch, the shot, the ring, and the intrauterine device (IUD). Each type of birth control has its own pros and cons, so it's important to talk to a healthcare professional to find out which one is right for you. And which one’s aren’t!
Types of Birth Control
Before you go chat to your doctor, you may want to know a little bit more about what birth control options are available. Unless you want a baby, this is information you should keep handy;
Condoms - Condoms are a form of barrier contraception that can prevent both pregnancy and the spread of STIs.
The Pill - The pill is a form of hormonal contraception that you take every day to prevent pregnancy.
The Patch - The patch is a form of hormonal contraception that you wear on your skin and change every week.
The Ring - The ring is a form of hormonal contraception that you insert into your vagina and change every month.
The Shot - The shot is a form of hormonal contraception that you get injected into your arm every three months.
IUDs - IUDs are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into your uterus and can prevent pregnancy for up to 10 years.
Using birth control correctly and consistently is key to preventing pregnancy. It's important to know that even if you're using birth control, it's still possible to get pregnant. No birth control method is 100% effective, except for abstinence. That's why it's important to use condoms in addition to other forms of birth control to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Let’s Chat STIs
Speaking of STIs, they are another important aspect of sexual health that you need to be aware of. STIs are infections that are spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhoea, herpes, HIV/AIDS, HPV, and syphilis. Some STIs can be cured with antibiotics, while others, like herpes and HIV/AIDS, cannot be cured, but can be managed with medication.
The best way to protect yourself from STIs is to practice safe sex. This means using condoms and dental dams (a barrier used during oral sex) every time you have sex, and getting tested regularly for STIs. If you're sexually active, it's recommended that you get tested for STIs at least once a year, or more often if you have multiple sexual partners.
We understand that talking about sexual health can be a little icky, but it's a normal part of life. It's important to have open and honest conversations with a healthcare professional and your partner(s) about your sexual health. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek out information.
Knowledge is power. Embrace your body, embrace learning about what it can do, and embrace your own control over how you use it and take care of it.
Sex Talk
If you're not comfortable talking to your healthcare professional or your parents about sexual health, there are other resources available. Planned Parenthood or local neighbourhood centres often offer confidential and affordable sexual health services, including birth control, STI testing and treatment, and counselling. They also have a wealth of information on their websites about sexual health, including articles, videos, and interactive tools.
All of which you can access in your own time and privacy.
And while the internet is FULL of information about sex, what to do, when to do it, where to do it and how… there’s some information that is factually incorrect and absolutely does not substitute the advice provided by the doc or a healthcare provider.
Enjoy
Taking care of your sexual health is an important part of taking care of yourself. It's important to use birth control correctly and consistently to prevent pregnancy, and to use condoms and dental dams to protect yourself from STIs. Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek out information, and remember that there are resources available to help you navigate this important topic.
Sex is an opportunity to learn more about yourself, and about your partner. It can be a really enjoyable experience!
Nothing’s off limits, and if you feel like you still have questions and want to talk more with a professional (strictly confidential) reach out! Let’s work through this together.
Stay safe, take care of yourself and enjoy!
Mellanie Shaylor
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