ASHA remains an independent, unbiased source of information on sexual health. We are guided by science, not ideology. READ MORE.
ASHA remains an independent, unbiased source of information on sexual health. We are guided by science, not ideology. READ MORE.

Choosing A Hormonal Contraception Option

A pack of birth control pills

Many methods of birth control that are available today rely on hormones like those that our bodies make naturally. Hormonal methods come in many different forms—from pills to patches to shots—but all of them essentially work the same way.

Contraception and Birth Control Methods  

A range of contraception options including the pill, IUD, diaphragm and more

Anyone who is having penis-in-vagina sex runs the risk of getting pregnant every time they have sex. Even if it’s your first time. Even if you have your period. Even if it’s a full moon and Mercury is in retrograde.

The HPV Vaccine Prevents Cancer

In the U.S., HPV infections are estimated to cause about 37,300 cases of cancer. The HPV vaccine can prevent over 90% of these cancers from ever developing.

HPV and Relationships

A couple sits with their heads together

HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Still, finding out that you or your partner has it can feel stressful and confusing. It’s normal to have a lot of questions: What does this mean for our health? Did someone cheat? Should we stop having sex?

Congenital Syphilis

A pregnant woman in a wheelchair

Congenital syphilis occurs when syphilis is passed to a fetus during pregnancy. Syphilis during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, low birth weight, and even death shortly after birth. But congenital syphilis can be prevented by timely testing and treatment of syphilis during pregnancy.

Condom Sizing

Thumbs up to condoms

Just like the people to whom they’re attached, penises come in all shapes and sizes (some would even argue personalities, but that’s beyond our scope here). Condoms come in different shapes and sizes as well, so anyone can find a condom that’s right for them.

Sex and Relationships

Couple

Many people confuse love, commitment, and sex, or assume the three always go hand-in-hand. There are many ways to express love, and you don’t need to have sex with someone to show them you love them.

Viral Hepatitis (A, B, C, D and E)

Get tested for hepatitis

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver that can be caused by a group of viruses—hepatitis A, B, C, D and E. When hepatitis viruses damage liver cells, scar tissue is formed and those cells can no longer function.

Your Safer Sex Toolbox

Safer sex toolbox

Explore ways to make sex safer and communicate with your sexual partners about your expectations and boundaries.

Talking Birds and Bees in the 21st Century

J. Dennis Fortenberry

Why are STI rates so high among young people? For insight we chatted with Dr. J. Dennis Fortenberry, a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the Indiana University School of Medicine.