Safer Sex

Riding in a car is never 100% safe. Neither is eating a sandwich. That doesn’t mean we should never do these things. It does mean we should consider taking common-sense precautions, like wearing a seatbelt, not riding with a driver who’s been drinking, not eating baloney that’s past its expiry date, and not swallowing our food too quickly while running with scissors.

Sex with another person is never 100% safe either. That doesn’t mean we should never do it. It does mean we should consider taking some precautions. But what exactly are we trying to prevent? Are some precautions more effective than others? How do we talk about safer sex or contraception (birth control) with our partners? How do we talk about it with the people who support us? Where can we get information about this stuff? Where can we get supplies?

Oh yeah – one last thing – masturbation is a SUPER SAFE way to feel sexual pleasure! There’s no risk of unplanned pregnancy or STIs.

Let’s have a conversation!

Videos

What is a Condom?

In this video by Planned Parenthood, they break down how to use a condom step-by-step. They also talk about how condoms protect you against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unwanted pregnancy, and where you can find them.

Using Sex Sense – Sending an Email

Using Sex Sense – Making a Phone Call

Real Talk at Home: Social Distance Loneliness

Real Talk At Home – During Social Distancing, Your Safest Sex Partner Is You

Guest Video – Options Webinar on Sex & Safety During COVID

Real Talk at Home: STD or STI? What’s the Difference?

What is a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI)?

Where do you get Advice on Relationships, Love, and Sex?

Resources

1-800-SEX-SENSE Line

FREE, anonymous telephone and email hotline where you can ask any question about sex. Staffed by medical professionals and sexual health educators. 9am to 9pm weekdays. Not seeing what you need on the Real Talk site? Call Sex Sense. They’ll help you find it.

1-800-739-7367

Options For Sexual Health

British Columbia’s largest sexual health nonprofit with information & education from a feminist, pro-choice, sex positive perspective. Also operates clinics with sexual and reproductive health care like contraception, sti & pregnancy testing etc..

Scarleteen

Sexuality and relationships info for teens and emerging adults. Articles on all aspects of sexuality, dating, love, relationships, communication, contraception etc.

Amaze

Fun, animated videos that give you all the answers you actually want to know about sex, your body and relationships. Characters in the videos are usually high school students.

The Smart Sex Resource

Website with lots of information on safer sex and STIs, including how to get tested and treated.

Youth Clinics

Friendly spaces with free contraception & free emergency contraception, free STI testing & treatment, free pregnancy testing, and general sexual health info. Serving up to age 21 or age 24 depending on the clinic.

Womyn’s Ware

Vancouver store that sells many sexual pleasure products like sex toys, vibrators, massagers, and lubricant. They also sell safer sex supplies like condoms, and lots of books on sexual pleasure and health topics.

London Drugs

Personal massagers – also known as vibrators – are tools that can make masturbation more pleasurable. London Drugs stores throughout BC carry several that are inexpensive. They also sell safer sex supplies like condoms. They can ship them to you.

Pharmacare & Contraception

Did you know? If you receive disability benefits in British Columbia, you’re usually eligible for a free hormonal IUD (which just happens to be the most effective contraception available on earth right now).

On the Loose

A resource for folks living on their own for the first time, with lots of information on avoiding pitfalls – whether online or in real life. Includes info about online dating, online porn, and avoiding scams.

‘Love, Sex, and Connection in the Time of Isolation’

Options for Sexual Health educators give tips on, dating, sexual pleasure, and safety during COVID.

The New York Health Authority’s COVID Sex Guidance Tips

Strategies to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 during sex.

Qmunity

A non-profit organization based in Vancouver, BC that works to improve queer, trans, and Two-Spirit lives. Hosts social, support & advocacy groups. (NB. Some folks have noted physical access barriers at Qmunity sites. Please contact them to confirm whether your access needs can be met.)

The Health Initiative for Men

A local non-profit society for gay, bisexual, transgender, Two-Spirit and queer (GBT2Q) men. Supporting sexual, mental, and social health. Monthly events.