Blog:
Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
Male condoms are latex or polyurethane sheaths that fit over the penis and prevent both pregnancy and STIs. Female condoms are latex material that is inserted into vagina, similar to a tampon. For condoms to be effective, they must be put on before any genital contact, and they shouldn’t be taken off until sex is over.
Condoms have a lot of benefits—you don’t need a prescription to get them, and they protect against sexually transmitted infections. However, they are only effective when used consistently and correctly, so here are a few things you (and your partner) need to know:
Emergency Contraception, or EC, is a way to prevent pregnancy after either having unprotected sex or if a condom breaks. EC is not, nor should it be used as, a replacement for a regular birth control method, and no form of EC is effective in preventing STIs.
Emergency Contraception prevents ovulation but it will not end a pregnancy if fertilization has already occurred.
There are several kinds of emergency contraception, and most are available over the counter. They are also available at the Knox County Health Department.
February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
Getting routine shots from your doctor is never fun, but protect yourself by getting vaccinated.
The HPV Vaccine is cancer prevention. Ask your doctor about what you can do to stay safe, or call 865-215-5150 to schedule a vaccination appointment at the Health Department.