Learn best practices and navigate your sexual health like a pro!
In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about our Protection and Pleasure pack, from best practices for condom use to understanding emergency contraception (Plan B) and the benefits of personal lubricant. Ready to take charge of your sexual health like a pro?
Don't forget to request your very own Protection and Pleasure pack here to get started!.
Condoms
Q: What are the different types of condoms available, and how do I choose the right one for me?
Condoms come in various sizes, shapes, textures, flavors, and materials. A condom that fits properly will snugly cover the penis from tip to base, with a comfortable yet secure fit, and a half inch reservoir at the tip for semen collection. Experimenting with different types can help you find the right fit for you and your partner(s).
Q: How should I store condoms to ensure their effectiveness?
Keep your condoms in a cool, dry place away from extreme temperatures, and be sure to check the expiration date before use. Avoid carrying condoms in your wallet or pocket for extended periods, since friction and heat can weaken the latex.
Q: What should I do if a condom breaks or slips off during sex?
If a condom breaks or slips off during sex, regardless of the type of sex (vaginal, anal, or oral), stop immediately and replace the condom with a new one. If ejaculation has occurred, consider using emergency contraception to reduce the risk of pregnancy.
Plan B
Q: What is Plan B, and how does it work?
Plan B, aka the "morning-after pill," contains a high dose of levonorgestrel, which works by preventing ovulation or fertilization of the egg if taken before ovulation occurs. It doesn’t stay in your system or impact your ability to become pregnant in the future. Plan B does not impact the effectiveness of any regular birth control methods, so you can continue your regular birth control right away—or start one, if you don’t have a regular method.
Q: When should I take Plan B, and how effective is it?
Plan B is most effective when taken immediately after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours (3 days). However, it can still be used up to 5 days after. The sooner it's taken, the more effective it is at preventing pregnancy. When used as directed, about 7 out of every 8 people who could have gotten pregnant did not after taking Plan B.
Q: Are there any age or weight restrictions for using Plan B?
Plan B is available over-the-counter to individuals of any age or weight without a prescription. There are no official weight restrictions for its effectiveness, however some studies suggest that it may be less effective in people over 165lbs. The FDA maintains that "all women, regardless of how much they weigh, can use Plan B to prevent unintended pregnancy".
Q: What if I'm already pregnant and I take Plan B?
Plan B is not an abortion pill and it will not be effective if a person is already pregnant. Plan B will not harm or end an existing pregnancy.
Personal Lubricant
Q: What are the benefits of using personal lubricant during masturbation, foreplay or sex?
Lubricants can enhance comfort and pleasure by reducing friction between body parts or between a body part and a sex toy. It can heighten sensations and make intimate touch feel more pleasurable, make condoms less likely to break, and prevent vaginal dryness.
Q: Are water-based lubricants safe to use with latex condoms?
Yes! Water-based lubricants are safe to use with latex condoms and are compatible with most sex toys. They are also easy to clean up and won't stain fabrics.
Q: Can lubricants cause allergic reactions or irritation?
While rare, some people may experience allergic reactions or irritation to certain ingredients in lubricants. Patch testing on a small area of skin can help identify any potential sensitivities.
Pregnancy Test Strips
Q:How accurate are pregnancy test strips?
When used according to the instructions provided with the test, pregnancy test strips can typically provide accurate results 98% of the time.
Q: When is the best time to take a pregnancy test with the strip?
For most accurate results, it's recommended to wait until after your missed period.
Q: What should I do if my pregnancy test strip shows a faint line or unclear result?
In some cases, a faint line could be a positive result, even if it's not as dark as the control line. However, it's also possible for evaporation lines or other factors to cause faint lines that do not indicate pregnancy. To confirm the result, retest with a fresh test, or wait a few days and retest. If you're unsure about the result or have concerns, talk to a healthcare provider for guidance.
We hope this guide has provided valuable information on the items included in our packs. At Reproductive Justice Maryland, we're committed to supporting your reproductive health journey every step of the way. If you have additional questions, concerns, or suggestions for items you'd like to see in our packs in the future, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. Your feedback helps us tailor our services to better meet your needs. Together, we can continue to champion reproductive justice and empower all Marylanders to make informed choices about their bodies and futures.
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