Birth Control Pills and Health Services

A lot of people are concerned about going on the pill or have other birth control because they don't want their parents to know they're sexually active. However, it's important to know this should not stop you from getting and using birth control. At Health Services you can make an appointment, request birth control from a clinician, and (after having it prescribed) pick it up at the counter at Health Services. Be prepared to pay with credit card or check at that time. IT WILL NOT SHOW UP ON YOUR BURSAR BILL AT ALL.

Tune in for more info on EC and the particulars around lab charges for STI testing and vaginal and anal pap smears.

So here's to safersex! for more in depth info:

http://ase.tufts.edu/healthservice/birthcontrol.htm

http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/birth-control-4211.htm

Protect Yourself: Some Tips (pun intended) and Facts on Condoms

Codoms are an essential part of safe sex, and we all know safe=less stress=fun. We hope the act of getting a condom on is not an issue, and that the guys are ready, willing and able (and skilled) at getting it on. literally. God forbid, it were an issue: find the door. We welcome and suggestions for making this 'ohthiswillwreckthemood' cliche, a thing of the past. In the meantime, here are some fabulous facts:

* At least 55 million Americans have a sexually transmitted infection-that's 1 in 4 adults.

* Oils and most lotions will cause latex to break. Use only water or silicone based lubes with latex.

* You can still get a number of infections from unprotected oral sex.

* 1 in 5 newly infected individuals with HIV in the US has a drug resistant strain of the virus.

* Condoms help prevent pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases. Put on a condom before there is ANY vaginal, oral or anal contact with the penis.

* Make sure there are no air pockets at the top of the fitted condom. This makes them burst very easily. Squeeze any air out before you have intercourse.

* Never use oil-based lubricants (petroleum jelly or mineral oil) on latex condoms.

* Do not use a condom that is old or brittle.

* Store condoms in a cool, dry place to maximize their life and effectiveness.

* Don't store condoms in wallets; they could get damaged or worn out from the heat of the backside of a person or the pressure from being squished frequently

* Condoms can be weakened by exposure to heat or sunlight or by age.

* Always check the expiration date. Condoms should come with an expiration date.

* Always use a condom; going without one puts you and your partner at risk.

* DO NOT use more than one condom at a time as they can both tear due to the friction between them.

* In order to prevent the transmission of HIV (the virus that causes AIDS), you MUST use a latex condom, NOT a "natural" or animal skin condom. Animal skin condoms have tiny holes that HIV can get through, whereas latex condoms do not.

* Always put the condom on before ANY contact with your partner, not just before ejaculation. There are traces of sperm in the "pre-cum" liquid that comes from the erect penis and this too can cause pregnancy.

* To make it feel even better, put a drop or two of lube or Warming Liquid inside the condom before putting it on and apply a bit to the outside as well (it evaporates like water and doesn't leave a sticky mess).

* Always have condoms available. Put one or two condoms in your bag, pocket or purse. Keep a few near your bed. If the idea of someone seeing your condoms makes you squeamish, use a condom case.

* If you think using a condom "would kill the mood" try putting it on in a sexy way, like another bit of foreplay. Unrolling it over the penis can be sensual, even a turn-on. Don't limit your imagination; perhaps try applying the condom with your or your partner's mouth.

The Low Down: http://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/birth-control/condom-10187.htm

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Welcome to the Official PACT blog!

Who We Are

Prevention, Awareness, and Community at Tufts (P.A.C.T.) is a new student group on campus that works to raise awareness and promote dialogue on-campus around different health issues such as consent and healthy sexuality, sexual violence, eating concerns, body image, alcohol and drugs, mental health and depression.We are interested in how these issues play out on our campus and how communication, social norms and gender roles affect how we deal with them. We are campaigning around campus and are available for educational presentations in dorms and organizations.

Our History

PACT (as Prevention, Awareness, and Consent at Tufts) was formed in 2007 by a group of passionate students who felt that their roles as advisors for in the SACK abruptly ended. They wanted to continue educating through various ways such as providing resources and facilitating discussion around in the SACK's topics throughout the school year.

In its first year, it was funded through a grant from the Department of Justice to deal with issues around sexual assault, relationship violence, and stalking. The grant ended in May 2008 and now PACT has expanded under the new health education department to address a wider range of issues (i.e., mental health and alcohol/drug abuse).

Why the Blog?

PACT decided that a blog would be a good way to easily spread information and encourage conversation about health education topics students care about, from how to not freak out about getting EC (Emergency Contraception) to what really goes on when you go to counseling, to how to tell a friend you think their drinking/eating/hook up habits are out of control. We also will be posting various videos, articles, and Tufts-specific information. We want to hear from you: You can post comments and email us with your input and interests.

What You Can Do

To get involved with PACT, come to the Women's Center at 12pm on Mondays. We can also be reached at pactattufts@gmail.com. PACT is available to come to your group/dorm for fun, interactive programs about various topics such as sexual and mental health. We encourage students and student leaders to come to us for information to take back to your friends or organizations: spread the health.