It's crucial to act quickly. Contact your healthcare provider immediately to discuss options, including potential post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) if there's been a recent exposure. Explore alternative prevention methods like condoms in the meantime. Check with local HIV/AIDS organizations for emergency supplies or assistance programs. Consider discussing on-demand PrEP with your doctor if appropriate. Work promptly with your healthcare provider and insurance company to resolve coverage issues and minimize gaps in your PrEP regimen. Remember, quick action is essential to maintain your protection against HIV. You can find a list of helpful resources under our "Get Care" tab.

Using two condoms at once, aka "double bagging," isn’t a good idea—it increases the risk of breakage due to friction, provides less protection than a single condom, and can cause slippage during sex. Plus, it reduces sensation, making the experience less enjoyable. Health organizations like the CDC and WHO advise against it, as it’s more likely to fail. For the best protection, stick to one high-quality condom and use it correctly, or combine it with another contraceptive method for extra safety.

It can feel like one or all of the following: burns when you pee, constantly feels like you need to pee, pain in your lower back or pelvis. If the pain is unbearable, you can buy UTI painkillers (AZO is my preference). Keep in mind that this DOES NOT TREAT THE UTI; it only provides pain relief.

3+ partners: every 3-6 months and/or every time you get a new partner

1-2 partners every 6 months; every 6 months and/or every time you get a new partner

1 partner per year: once per year

No partners: no need to test

You could still have an STI. 75% of STI cases are asymptomatic; even though nothing's burning, you still might have something. She also could've gotten it from someone else.

There's no exact amount, but pay attention to the way it's affecting your life and your perspectives. If you're showing up late to work or if you're starting to have problems getting aroused, you should evaluate how much you're watching. Watching porn is normal, but "too much of a good thing" is real in this context.

It might make him feel inadequate or jealous. He might wonder why you need one if he's already "doing such a great job." You can explain to him that vibrators aren't weird (they literally sell them at Target) and that it'll be an enhancement to your sex lives. When you're having better sex, he'll also have better sex.

If you're getting it ONLY after having sex, you could be getting it from your partner (get them a test from the drugstore!) and/or from oil based lube. Using antibiotics, douches, and fragrant cleansers can also increase your chances of getting a yeast infection. Also, don't forget to pee after sex!

They can be, because they contain drugs (sildenafil and tadalafil) that can interact with antibiotics, heart meds, and blood pressure meds. Honey packets also have a history of failing to disclose all the active drugs they contain, so you're taking them at your own risk.

Figuring out if you're ready for sex is all about being confident in your choice and feeling secure emotionally, physically, and mentally. Is this something that YOU actually want, or are you feeling pressure from your partner(s), friends, or society? It would be helpful to talk to your partner about consent, boundaries, and protection like condoms or birth control. Trust your gut to make sure you're making an informed decision about sex. Also, it's important to consider how you'll feel afterwards. Having sex can be a really emotional experience. Just remember, it's totally okay to wait until you're 100% ready; this about YOUR timeline, not anyone else's.

Yes, you can catch an STI from a sex toy if it’s shared or not cleaned properly, because bodily fluids or bacteria can transfer STIs. This applies to all toys, regardless of if they go inside a hole. To stay safe, clean your toys thoroughly after each use with soap and water or a toy cleaner, and use non-porous materials like silicone or glass, which are easier to sanitize. If your toys are shared, always use a fresh condom for each partner and change it between uses. Keeping toys personal, cleaning them properly, and storing them in a clean, dry place are key to reducing the risk of getting an STI from a toy.

Preparing for anal involves open communication with your partner about boundaries and expectations, relaxation, and proper hygiene. Take your time, start with plenty of foreplay, and use lots of body-safe lubricant since the anus doesn’t self-lubricate. Begin with small toys or fingers to get used to the sensation and go slow, stopping if anything feels uncomfortable. Clean the area and any toys beforehand. If you're scared of pooping during anal, you consider using an enema. Afterward, clean up and take time for aftercare with your partner. Prioritizing comfort and mutual consent ensures a safe and enjoyable experience.

You can take Plan B multiple times in a month without significant health risks or effects on future fertility, but you shouldn't take it as a regular form of birth control. While there no known limit to the maximum amount of Plan B you can take, frequent use may increase side effects like menstrual changes or headaches. If you find yourself using Plan B often, you should consider more cost efficient, effective, and convenient long-term birth control options such as the pill, IUD, the shot, or an implant. Check our "Get Care" tab to find these options near you.

Recognizing an orgasm involves noticing several physical and emotional signs. These typically include an intense feeling of pleasure, rhythmic contractions in the vagina and pelvic area, increased heart rate and breathing, and a sudden release of sexual tension. It's important to remember that orgasms can feel different for everyone and may vary each time and that it's okay to not orgasm 100% of the time.

If you’ve suddenly lost your libido at 27, it might be due to things like stress, burnout, or mental health struggles (like anxiety or depression) that are super common in our generation. Hormonal imbalances, like low testosterone or thyroid issues, could also be at play, especially if you’re feeling tired, moody, or out of it. Lifestyle habits like poor sleep, doomscrolling late at night, skipping meals, or overdoing it at the gym can mess with your energy and drive, too. Medications (like antidepressants) or substances (weed, alcohol) might be affecting you without you realizing it. If this sticks around or comes with other symptoms, consider getting your hormone levels checked, prioritizing rest, or reaching out to a doctor or therapist—it’s normal to need a reset sometimes.

If you want to try anal play with your boyfriend, bring it up casually during a chill, private moment. Be honest about why you're into the idea—maybe it’s about exploring something new or because prostate stimulation can actually feel amazing. Let him know there’s zero pressure and ask how he feels about it. If he’s open, suggest starting slow (like with external touches) and remind him you’ll stop anytime he’s not comfortable. It’s all about trust, communication, and having fun together, but if he’s not down, that’s totally fine too—boundaries and respect are key.

Being polyamorous means having multiple romantic or intimate relationships at the same time, with everyone’s full knowledge and consent. It’s all about open communication, trust, and being honest with your partners—so it’s not the same as cheating, where things are kept secret.

For some people, polyamory means having multiple equally important relationships, while others might have a main partner (a “primary”) and still explore other connections. It’s not just about sex; it’s about forming real emotional bonds with more than one person. At its core, polyamory is about the idea that love isn’t limited—you can care deeply for multiple people without taking away from anyone else.

The best birth control for you depends on your lifestyle, health, and plans for the future. If you want something easy to manage, hormonal options like the pill, patch, ring, shot, or implant work great, with different levels of effort. Long-term options like IUDs (hormonal or copper) are super low-maintenance. Condoms are a solid, hormone-free choice that also protect against STIs but need to be used every time. If you prefer a natural approach, tracking your cycle could work, but it’s less reliable. Permanent options like getting your tubes tied are great if you’re sure you don’t want kids. Think about what fits your daily life, health, and goals, and talk to a doctor to find the best fit for you.

Telling your partner you have an STI can feel scary, but being honest shows you care about them and their health. Pick a private, chill moment to talk, and just be direct—something like, "Hey, I want to share something important. I found out I have [STI], and I think we should talk about it." Keep it simple, share the facts, and let them know what you're doing to manage it. Be ready for questions or feelings, and talk about how you can stay safe together, like using condoms or getting tested. It might feel awkward, but a good partner will appreciate your honesty and care.

STIs (sexually transmitted infections) and STDs (sexually transmitted diseases) are pretty much the same thing, just different names. "STI" is the newer term that doctors prefer because it sounds less scary and is more accurate—sometimes you can have an infection without it turning into a disease, which has noticeable symptoms or complications. Both terms refer to infections you can catch through sexual contact, whether that’s vaginal, anal, or oral. So, whether you hear STI or STD, they’re talking about the same kinds of infections that can be spread during sex.

Pain during sex can happen for lots of reasons, and it’s more common than you think. It could be physical, like not enough lubrication, tight muscles (vaginismus), infections, or conditions like endometriosis or a UTI. Emotional stuff, like stress, anxiety, or past trauma, can also play a big role. Sometimes it’s just about finding the right positions or learning what works for your body. Try using lube, communicating with your partner, and going slow. If it keeps happening, see a doctor or pelvic floor therapist to figure it out—there’s no shame in getting help to make sex comfortable and enjoyable!

Mpox is basically a viral infection that can spread through close physical contact, especially during sexual activity. It shows up as a painful, bumpy rash that looks pretty gnarly and comes with flu-like symptoms like fever and body aches. While it sounds scary, most people recover within a few weeks without major issues. The virus got a lot of attention in 2022 when it spread globally, primarily among men who have sex with men, but anyone can catch it through close skin-to-skin contact or sharing contaminated items. Vaccines are available, and doctors recommend getting one if you're at higher risk. The good news? It's treatable, and most people bounce back just fine with some rest and medical care. Just practice safe sex, be aware of your sexual health, and don't freak out if you hear about it.

No, the idea that 75% of people have herpes is a myth. The real numbers are lower, but herpes is still pretty common. There are two main types: HSV-1 (usually oral herpes) and HSV-2 (usually genital herpes). In the U.S., about half of people aged 14-49 have HSV-1, while around 12% have HSV-2. Worldwide, about 13% of people aged 15-49 have HSV-2. The chances of having herpes go up as you get older, and it's more common in women than men. Different racial and ethnic groups also have different rates. So while herpes is definitely out there, it's not as widespread as that 75% stat suggests.

Worrying about size is super normal, but most people are in the average range—around 5-6 inches hard and 3.6 inches soft, with tons of variation. Honestly, size doesn’t matter nearly as much as confidence, communication, and knowing what your partner likes. Sexual satisfaction is about connection, not inches. Instead of stressing, focus on what makes you awesome overall—your vibe, personality, and how you treat others go way further than size ever will.

A "top" is someone who takes the lead or the penetrative role during sex, like in anal or oral, or in giving stimulation during BDSM stuff. It’s just a preference and doesn’t define your whole identity. Some people are "vers" or "switch," meaning they’re down for both roles depending on the vibe. These labels are just tools to help you communicate what you’re into and make sure everyone’s on the same page.

Aftercare is the TLC that you give to your partner and yourself after being intimate. Aftercare is about making sure everyone's feeling good, both physically and mentally. It could be as simple as cuddling up, talking things through, grabbing some water and snacks, listening to music...whatever makes you feel safe, grounded, and cared for. The key is communication - ask how they're feeling, listening and offer what they need (or share what you need). It's a not a one-size-fits-all, but the goal is to restore balance and make sure everyone feels good, connected, and cared for. Think of it as the cool-down after a workout, but for your emotions and body.

It’s easy to compare yourself to people in porn or on social media, but remember—most of what you see is staged, edited, or filtered. Real bodies aren’t “perfect,” and real intimacy isn’t about looking flawless; it’s about feeling good and being connected. If certain content makes you feel insecure, unfollow it and curate your feed with body-positive, diverse creators who make you feel seen. Celebrate what makes you unique, focus on what you love about yourself, and remind yourself that you’re enough as you are. The vibe you bring to the table is what really matters—not how you compare to someone else’s highlight reel.

Pay attention to who you’re attracted to—physically, emotionally, or romantically—and reflect on past crushes or feelings. It’s normal if things feel fluid or unclear, so don’t stress about choosing a label right away. Explore your feelings, connect with LGBTQ+ communities, and remember that your identity is yours to define. Whether you’re drawn to women only or multiple genders, your experiences are valid, and it’s okay to take your time figuring it out. Figuring out if you're a lesbian or bisexual takes time, and that’s okay.

Wearing a condom during oral sex is a good idea if you want to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). While the risk of transmission is lower compared to other types of sex, STIs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, herpes, HPV, and HIV can still be passed through oral contact.

If you and your partner have both been tested and know each other's sexual health status, you might feel comfortable skipping protection. But if you're unsure, using condoms (or dental dams for giving oral to someone with a vulva) adds an extra layer of safety.

At the end of the day, it’s about balancing your comfort and risk. If protection feels like a priority, flavored condoms or thin ones can make oral sex safer and more enjoyable.

Nonbinary refers to a gender identity that doesn’t fit within the traditional categories of male or female. Nonbinary people may feel like their gender is a mix of both, somewhere in between, fluid, or completely outside those labels. Terms like genderqueer, genderfluid, or agender might also describe their experiences. It’s not about appearance—it’s about how someone feels and identifies. Everyone’s experience is unique, so the best way to understand someone’s identity is to listen, respect, and honor how they describe themselves

Bringing up sex doesn’t have to be awkward if you keep it chill and respectful. Pick a good moment when you’re both relaxed and not distracted—definitely not in public or during something intense. Start the convo casually, like talking about how you’re feeling in the relationship or asking about boundaries. Use “I” statements to share your thoughts without making it feel like pressure, and keep it light—maybe even add a little humor to break the ice. Be ready to listen and respect their feelings, even if they’re not on the same page yet. Most importantly, make it clear there’s no rush and that you care about their comfort and consent.

Vaginal discharge is totally normal and actually super important—it’s your body’s way of keeping things clean and healthy. It’s mostly made of water, mucus, and dead cells, along with good bacteria that help keep your pH balanced and fight off infections. The amount and texture can change depending on where you are in your cycle (thanks, hormones). But if it ever smells weird, looks unusual (like green or yellow), or comes with itching or irritation, it might be a sign of an infection, and it’s worth getting checked out by a doctor.

Yes, people with penises can get HPV (human papillomavirus), and it’s super common—it spreads through skin-to-skin contact during sex or other intimate activities. Most of the time, HPV doesn’t cause any symptoms and goes away on its own, but it can lead to things like genital warts or, in rare cases, cancers (like anal, throat, or penile cancer). The good news? The HPV vaccine is a solid way to protect yourself, and it’s recommended for guys up to age 26 (and sometimes older). Condoms can help lower the risk, though they’re not foolproof. If you ever notice anything unusual, like warts or discomfort, it’s smart to check in with a doctor.

No, BV (bacterial vaginosis) and UTIs (urinary tract infections) aren’t the same thing, even though they can feel similar. BV happens when the bacteria in your vagina get out of balance, causing discharge, a fishy smell, or itching. UTIs, on the other hand, are infections in your urinary tract (like your bladder) and usually cause symptoms like burning when you pee, needing to pee all the time, or lower belly pain. BV is about vaginal bacteria imbalance, while UTIs happen when bacteria (like E. coli) get into your urinary tract. If you’re not sure what’s up, check with a doctor, since they need different treatments.

Lesbian sex can look super different depending on what both people are into—it’s all about what feels good and comfortable. It might include things like oral (cunnilingus), using hands or fingers, or even toys like vibrators or strap-ons. There’s also a lot of intimacy in kissing, touching, or mutual masturbation. At the end of the day, it’s about open communication, consent, and making sure everyone’s on the same page and enjoying themselves.