Condoms & Birth Control

Here’s a gender-inclusive overview of key elements related to safer sex supplies, especially helpful for LGBTQ+ youth and young adults.

  • What are my options for barriers? And Why?

    These help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and pregnancy.

    Condoms:

    - External (worn on a penis or toy)

    - Internal (inserted into the vagina or anus)

    - Available in latex-free options for allergies

    - Can be used by people of any gender

    Dental Dams:

    - Thin sheets used during oral sex on vulvas or anuses

    - Help prevent STI transmission

    - Can be made from condoms if needed

    Gloves:

    - Used during manual sex or when touching genitals/anus

    - Reduce risk of cuts, infections, and STI transmission

    Lubrication (Lube):

    - Reduces friction and helps prevent tearing during sex

    - Water-based: safe with condoms and toys

    - Silicone-based: longer-lasting, but not always safe with silicone toys

    - Oil-based: not safe with latex condoms

    Safer Sex with Toys:

    - Use condoms on shared toys

    - Clean toys between uses with soap and water or toy cleaner

    - Choose body-safe materials (like silicone or stainless steel)

  • What are my options for birth control? And Why?

    What Is Birth Control?

    Birth control (also called contraception) helps prevent pregnancy. It can also be used to manage periods, reduce cramps, treat acne, and support gender-affirming care. Birth control does not protect against STIs.

    Important: Birth control is for anyone with a uterus and ovaries who wants to prevent pregnancy—regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation.

    These are available without a prescription:

    Condoms (external and internal):

    - Prevent pregnancy and STIs

    - Can be used by people of any gender

    - Latex-free options available

    Spermicide:

    - Chemical that kills sperm

    - Often used with condoms or other barrier methods

    Emergency Contraception (Plan B or “morning-after pill”):

    - Taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy

    - Most effective within 72 hours

    - Available at pharmacies without a prescription

    Contraceptive sponges:

    - Inserted into the vagina before sex

    - Contains spermicide and blocks sperm

    Prescription Birth Control Options These require a visit to a healthcare provider:

    - Pills: Taken daily; can regulate periods and reduce acne

    - Patch: Worn on the skin; changed weekly

    - Ring: Inserted into the vagina; changed monthly

    - Shot (Depo-Provera): Given every 3 months

    - Implant: A small rod placed under the skin; lasts up to 3–5 years

    - IUD (Intrauterine Device): Inserted into the uterus; lasts 3–10 years

  • Where/How to get these

    - Planned Parenthood: Offers birth control, condoms, emergency contraception, and LGBTQ+ affirming care.

    - Community health centers & health departments: Many offer free or low-cost supplies and services.

    - School-based health clinics: Some middle schools, high schools, and colleges provide confidential access to birth control and STI testing.

    LGBTQ+ Centers:

    - Free condoms, dental dams, and lube

    - Safer sex kits

    - Referrals to affirming healthcare providers

    Pharmacies Offer Over-The-Counter (OTC) Options Like:

    - External/internal condoms

    - Emergency contraception (Plan B)

    - Spermicide

    - Contraceptive sponges

    - No prescription needed, but age policies may vary by location

    Online Services/Telehealth platforms offer:

    - Birth control prescriptions

    - Emergency contraception

    - Discreet delivery to your home

    - Some LGBTQ+ organizations also ship free safer sex kits

    Healthcare Providers

    - Doctors, nurse practitioners, and OB/GYNs can:

    - Prescribe birth control pills, patches, rings, shots, implants, and IUDs

    - Offer guidance on what’s best for your body and identity

    - Provide STI testing and sexual health education