Contraceptives are tools used to prevent unplanned pregnancy. They are very effective resources if used properly but none are 100% effective.

Which form of birth control is right for me?

• It is important to know about the different forms of birth control in order to pick the one that is best for you.

• Birth control comparison matrix

I can't afford birth control?

• Student Health and Wellness has free internal and external condoms available to students

• Thunder Bay District Health Unit's Sexual Health Clinic is able to provide easier, low-cost access to certain types of birth control. Visit their website for more info.

• Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is able to provide certain birth control methods at a reduced cost for those who can demonstrate financial need. Visit their website for more info. 

I forgot to take my birth control what do I do?

• Forgetting to take your birth control can be stressful. It's important to know the next steps to ensure you're protected against unplanned pregnancy. 

• Here is a tool to help you take safe next steps. 

If you’re not on birth control and recently had unprotected play with a partner who could get you pregnant, an emergency contraceptive can be used within 3 to 5 days (depending on the method) to stop a pregnancy before it starts.

Most people don’t know they have an STBBI because they have no symptoms or they may be embarrassed to talk with a healthcare provider. Most STBBIs are easily cured if they are caught early. If left untreated, some STBBIs can cause reproductive and health concerns. If you are sexually active, take care of your sexual health by getting tested regularly.

What are STBBIs?

Sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections are commonly caused by the spreading of bacteria or viruses that are passed from one person to another through sexual activity.

How does someone contract an STBBI?

STBBIs can be spread through body fluids (blood, vaginal fluid, semen/cum, pre-cum and saliva), skin-to-skin contact or through the sharing of needles.

How can I tell if I have an STBBI?

Many STBBIs do not show any symptoms, so it may not be possible to know whether someone is infected. Some more noticeable signs of infection may include blisters, warts or sores, but this isn’t always the case. You must be tested in order to know for certain if you or your partner(s) have an STBBI. Not knowing can be the worst part, if you suspect an STBBI or if you haven’t been practicing safe sex, be sure to see your doctor or visit your local sexual health clinic.

What are the risks?

Vaginal or Anal Sex

Chance of infection being passed to you, if your partner has the infection at that site:

Oral Sex

The chance of infection being passed to you, if your partner has the infection at the site

Other Kinds of Sex

The chance of infection being passed to you, if your partner has the infection at the site

1. The chances with condoms are based on the knowledge that sometimes condoms break, slip off or are incorrectly used. If a condom is used perfectly, the chance will be lower. If the condom breaks or slips, the chances are the same as if a condom wasn’t used. Also, condoms are less effective against infections that can be spread by skin contact (syphilis, herpes, HPV).
2. The Chances of HIV being passed can depend on viral load. For example, the chances are lower if your partner is on treatment for HIV and has undetectable viral load.

How can I reduce my risk?

Get tested: If you have an STBBI and don’t know it, you can pass it on to others or develop serious health problems if it goes untreated. Get tested to know if you have an STBBI and get medications if needed. When you are seeing a new sexual partner, getting tested before having sex can help prevent STBBIs. Student Health and Wellness can order sexual health screening and follow-up care. HIV Self-Tests can be ordered online and SHW is able to provide follow-up care. 

Know your options: Some ways of having sex have less chance of passing on STBBIs than others. Know about sexual activities and related chances of STBBIs, and choose those that you are comfortable with. Lots of sexual activities that don’t involve sexual intercourse also feel good!

Talk with partners: It can be easier in the heat of the moment when you and your partner(s) have talked beforehand about what works for you. There are lots of ways to start this conversation. Learn more about how to talk about safer sex.

Use protection: Use a barrier (external/internal condom, dental dam, finger cot) every time you have vaginal, anal or oral sex. You might also want to consider taking PrEP if you are looking for additional protection against HIV.

Sexual Health Ontario-free, anonymous and inclusive eChat and phone service for Ontario residents. This service is staffed by counsellors who provide information, support and referrals in English, French and other languages on sexual health topics.

Sexfluent- creating a culture of openness, acceptance and empowerment for youth to feel confident in their identity, sexuality and decision-making capabilities.

Smart Sex Resource- STIS 101

Sex and U

Options for Sexual Health

Bedsider

Elevate NWO

PrEP Basics

Birth control methods can be divided into the following categories:

Hormonal methods

• Often make periods lighter, shorter, and reduce cramps.
  • Require a prescription and may cause hormonal side effects.
  • Long-term options include the hormonal IUD and implant.
  • Short-term options require regular use: daily (pill), weekly (patch), monthly (ring), or every 3 months (shot).
  • Possible side effects include nausea, breast/chest tenderness, spotting, mood changes, or acne changes, which may improve over time.

Non-hormonal methods

• Have no hormones and no hormonal side effects but might have other side effects.

• Includes the copper IUD, which provides long-term protection for several years, as well as methods requiring daily or situational use, such as fertility awareness methods, cervical caps, diaphragms, and condoms.

Permanent methods are small surgical procedures that end a person’s ability to cause a pregnancy or get pregnant.

Emergency contraception offers a backup plan to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or after a birth control method fails. Plan B is available over the counter at most pharmacies.

Pregnancy Testing

You can use a pregnancy test if you’re concerned you might be pregnant. Pregnancy testing is available at Student Health and Wellness. You can also buy pregnancy tests at a pharmacy. For the most accurate results, wait until after the first day of your missed period to take a pregnancy test, or at least 21 days after unprotected sex if you don't have regular periods. 

Pregnancy Options

If you’re pregnant as a university student, it’s normal to feel a mix of emotions and have many questions. There’s no one “right” decision—only the one that feels best for you. Understanding your options can help you make an informed choice.

Parenting

If you choose to continue your pregnancy and parent, planning ahead can help you navigate school and pregnancy at the same time. Consider:

• Prenatal Care – Regular medical check-ups are important for a healthy pregnancy. A healthcare provider can guide you through each stage.
• Academic Planning – You may need to adjust your course load, explore online or flexible learning options, or speak with professors about accommodations.
• Support Systems – Parenting as a student can be challenging, but leaning on partners, friends, family, or student groups can make a difference. Support programs in your community can play a big role in how supported you feel during pregnancy. Various organizations may offer pregnancy and parenting resources, ranging from financial assistance to peer support groups.

Adoption

If you want to continue your pregnancy but don’t feel ready to parent, adoption may be an option. When planning to place a child for adoption directly from birth, the pregnant person can choose to be as involved with the placement selection process as desired. There are no fees for the birth parent who would like to place a child for adoption.

Resources

• Continuing a Pregnancy
• Thunder Bay District Health Unit- Pregnancy
• Simcoe Muskoka Health Unit- Pregnancy and Birth
• Ontario Adoption Agencies

Abortion is healthcare, so it is regulated like other medical procedures. There are two ways that abortions are done: 

• Procedural abortion is done in a hospital or clinic. This is also called surgical abortion. 

• Medication abortion is done by taking prescription pills. This can be done at home or wherever you feel comfortable. 

Any doctor and nurse practitioner can prescribe medication abortion.

Resources:

• Asking for an Abortion: A Pocket Guide
• Choice Connect 
• National Abortion Hotline
• Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada