Sex in the news: October 2019 edition

The smell of fall is in the air, pumpkins are filling your Instagram feed, and you’re ready to cozy up on the couch with a cup of hot apple cider and the latest on sex in the news. 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 while you get into the fall mood.

1. How To Support Birth Control Access On Social Media & Beyond (Bustle)

   Our parent organization, Power to Decide, partnered with Simple Health this month for the #KissMyAccess campaign to raise awareness about birth control access around the country. Share an Instagram story or tweet about your own struggles or victories with access to birth control with the hashtag during the month of October, and Simple Health will donate one month of birth control to an uninsured person. This article explains more ways to become active on social media and beyond to advocate for birth control access for all.

2. Lube Is Not The Enemy (Vice)

   What’s not to love about something that makes sex more enjoyable? This article covers the misconceptions around the nature of arousal and makes the case that lube can be a friend to all. Also check out our article busting 5 myths about lube.

3. STI Rates Are Skyrocketing, So Maybe Stop Raw-Dogging Already (Vice)

   A recent report released by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) shows that rates of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are at an all-time high. This article delves into the recent report and puts forth some theories as to why STI rates might be so high. If you’re interested in learning more, check out [our article about the many ways that you can practice safer sex](https://www.bedsider.org/features/1097-let-s-talk-about-safer-sex to prevent STIs.

4. Don’t Scroll Past That Instagram Ad for Contraceptives! (Ms. Magazine)

   Many public health organizations (and even companies) rely on peer-to-peer marketing to get the word out about birth control. This article explains the importance of conversations about birth control on social media and why you should get sharing! (P.S. Thanks, Birth Control Day is November 13th!)

5. 7 Reasons for a Missed Period After Stopping Birth Control (Parents)

   Missed a period after getting off hormonal birth control? Your fertility will return to whatever is normal for you after you get off of hormonal birth control. But things like high levels of stress and breastfeeding can affect your cycle. This article dives into 7 of the most common reasons your cycle might be off track.

6. I Was Worried About Working Out With an IUD, but Here’s How an Ob-Gyn Eased My Mind (POPSUGAR)

   Many questions arise when getting an IUD, but if you love to exercise, you might be wondering how it’s all going to go when you next hit the gym, barre or bike. This article explains when you can get back to your workouts and what it’s like to work out with an IUD. Also check out this Bedsider article about whether you can feel the IUD during sex.

7. I’m a Sexologist and Here Are 6 Lessons I Wish I could Give My Younger Self About Sex (Shape)

   Exploring your sexuality is a never-ending journey—there is always more to learn. In this article, a sexologist shares six lessons she wishes someone had taught her when she was younger, from learning the importance of the clitoris to taking responsibility for your own orgasm.

8. Can You Get Pregnant On Your Period? (Seventeen)

   Seventeen talked with a family physician to answer some of the most pressing questions surrounding sex on your period. If you’re curious about trying period sex, but you’re not too sure how to get started or even if it’s a good idea, Bedsider can walk you through it.

9. Fertility, pregnancy prevention, and more: Why you should be tracking your period (CNET)

   Tracking your menstrual cycle has many advantages. This article explains not only why it can be useful to keep track of your periods but also how to get started.

10. Most Postal Trucks Don’t Have Air Conditioning. That’s Bad News for Birth Control. (Vice)

    Say whaaat?! This might not be something you’ve thought about, but this article explains how your birth control might be affected by extreme heat. The next time you get birth control delivered to your door, check it closely to see if any discoloration or melting has taken place.