Sex in the news: September 2019 edition

We’ve rounded up our 10 favorite articles about sexual health and birth control from the past month to make it really easy for you to get the facts on the things that could affect your health.

1. Can You Feel The Birth Control Implant? What You Need To Know About Nexplanon (Bustle)

   The implant (sold under the brand name Nexplanon) is a small, thin rod placed under the skin of the arm which releases hormones that prevent pregnancy. It’s FDA-approved for use for up to 3 years, but evidence shows that in practice it’s actually effective for up to 5 years. Insertion is normally quick and easy. In this article, Bedsider contributor Emma McGowan answers some of the most pressing questions about the implant, including what to expect during the procedure and what side effects might occur with the implant.

2. Here’s How to Prepare and What to Expect From Your IUD Insertion, According to 2 Ob-Gyns (POPSUGAR)

   Each IUD insertion experience is different. Some patients experience pain during or after insertion while others only experience slight discomfort. This article will help you prepare for getting an IUD by describing the insertion process in detail and sharing a variety of people’s experiences during and after insertion.

3. Where To Get Free STD & STI Tests Near You 2019 (Refinery29)

   Getting routine STI testing is part of taking care of your sexual health. Luckily, it’s possible to find free or low-cost STI testing. This article offers a list of ways to do so, including by using Bedsider’s clinic finder.

4. Using A Condom Wrong Is Really Common, So Watch Out For This One Problem (Elite Daily)

   Condoms are an inexpensive and accessible form of birth control, that when used perfectly are 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. But the way people typically use them, they’re only 82% effective. In this article, a sex coach and OB-GYN describe how taking a few extra seconds to make sure you’re putting the condom on correctly—before engaging in sex—can help you ensure that your birth control is most effective.

5. What Happens When You Go Off Birth Control? Here Are 7 Things Doctors Want You To Know (Bustle)

   When you stop using birth control, you may experience some changes—from the fact that you may be able to get pregnant right away to changes to your period. Whether you’re thinking about going off birth control now or sometime in the future, your best bet is to talk to a provider about what to expect before you do.

6. Can You Go to the Gyno on Your Period or What? (Self)

   Wondering if you can get your Pap smear or pelvic exam when you have your period? (You can.) This article covers ten things that shouldn’t stop you from going to see your provider, like not having shaved, having missed some birth control pills, or having multiple sex partners.

7. Does Ovulation Affect Anxiety? An OB-GYN Weighs In (Romper)

   Hormones can impact emotions and moods in a variety of ways. While many people are familiar with the ways in which PMS can impact mood, it’s also possible for the hormone changes that occur around ovulation to impact mood. This article explains how, why, and what you can do if this happens to you.

8. What Is A Decidual Cast? OB/GYNs Explain Why The Menstrual Anomaly Happens (Bustle)

   Many of us are used to having a period and know to expect bleeding and maybe even some clots. However, sometimes instead of bleeding, the tissue that was lining the uterus comes out all in one piece. This is called a decidual cast. Decidual casts may surprise you, but they’re not necessarily cause for concern. But it is a good idea see your health care provider to make sure everything’s okay anytime something usual comes out of your vagina.

9. 9 Tips For Your First Time Having Sex (Refinery29)

   Having sex for the first time is a unique experience for everyone. There are tons of fun and exciting ways to be intimate, some of which can lead to pregnancy and/or STIs. Exploring on your own and talking to your partner about the type of sex you want to have, the safer sex measures you want to take, and your boundaries will help ensure you both have a pleasurable, safe, and consensual experience. Here are nine tips for making your first time one-of-a-kind.

10. Cripping Up Sex With Eva Offers Info About Sex & Disability That’s Hard To Get Anywhere Else (Bustle)

    Many young people across the nation lack access to accurate and complete sexual health information. These challenges are amplified for people with disabilities. Eva Sweeney is working to change that. As a queer person with a disability, Eva started Cripping Up Sex With Eva, an education platform designed to help young people with disabilities access sexual health information on everything from how to find queer-friendly aides to how to masturbate if you need assistance.