For many people, sex, sexual health, and sexuality are an important part of wellbeing throughout the various stages of life and development. Sexual activity and sexual health influence our physical and emotional wellbeing, as well as our relationships with others.
Learning more about sex, relationships, and sexual health can help you have experiences that are thoughtful, respectful, informed, and enjoyable.
Enjoying and exploring sex
Get to know your body
One of the best ways to learn about your sexuality and what feels good for you is by getting to know your own body and preferences. Many people did not grow up in a culture that supports open and honest conversations about pleasure or sex. Sexual health education in school can also differ greatly from one community to the next. Continuing to learn and ask questions about these topics can be a rewarding and healthy part of our sexuality and our sexual experiences.
Exploring which sensations your body likes and responds to—through self-pleasure or masturbation—can help you understand what feels good and safe for you, either on your own, with a partner, or with a sex tool or toy.
The UBC Wellness Centre Sexual Health Shop sells a variety of sex toys, lubricants, masturbation aids, and safety supplies that are geared towards a variety of bodies and sensations. They also have trained peer educators on-site available to speak confidentially about any questions you may have, or products you’d like to try.
Engaging in sexual activity is entirely up to you
If you are thinking about masturbating, or engaging in sexual activity, there is a lot to think about. This is a personal decision that should empower you to think and talk about what might feel best for you—honest, consensual conversations are the first step. There are a lot of conflicting messages coming from the media, stigmatized voices, cultural forces, pornography, and even from our peers.
Check in with your thoughts, feelings, and the physical sensations in your body. Consider the following reflection questions:
- How do I know if and when I’m ready for sex? (for the first time or for the 100th time)
- How do I know what sexual activities or sensations I am comfortable with?
- How do I know what my boundaries are and how can I assert them?
Ensuring that you slow down to think, research, and talk to trusted sources will set you up for a pleasurable and rewarding experience—if and when you feel ready. The choice to engage in sexual activity is personal, and everyone has the right to make that choice for themselves.
Consent is key
Consent is necessary and required for any type of sexual activity. This includes, but is not limited to kissing, making out, touching, sexting, sharing sexy photos, and all other forms of sexual activity.
When we use the word sex, this refers to all types of sexual interactions, not just penetrative intercourse. It refers to the full range of sexual acts and experiences, all of which require consent. In fact, it’s the law! Read more about the Canadian legal implications of consent.
Above all, sexual consent requires clear communication, as well as attentive listening and attention to signals and body language. Research tells us that setting boundaries around what’s okay and what’s not okay for you sexually can lead to better, more enjoyable sexual experiences. It’s important to clearly communicate your boundaries and ask for what you need, as well as to look and listen for your partner’s signals and directives.
Learn more about consent and how to make sure everyone involved feels informed, comfortable, and respected.
Exploring safe or safer sex
Feeling safe, informed, and prepared for sexual encounters can make sex more fun, respectful, and comfortable. Safe sex is all about caring for yourself and your partner(s), and safety is part of the responsibility and maturity of being ready for a sexual relationship.
This section covers ways to protect your health, including how to prevent STIs, use birth control, and find support and information around pregnancy.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
STIs, short for Sexually Transmitted Infections and also known as STBBIs, Sexual Transmitted and Blood Borne Infections, are infections most commonly passed through fluid exchange or skin-to-skin contact during sex.
While people may not always show signs or symptoms of having an STI, the infections, if left untreated, can develop into serious health concerns and be unknowingly passed onto others. STIs and blood borne viruses can affect anybody who has any type of sex.
They are many different types of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), and they can be:
- Bacterial, such as Chlamydia, Gonborrhea, Syphilis, and Mycoplasma Genitalium (Mgen)
- Viral, including HPV (Human Papillomavirus), Hepatitis, HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus), Mpox (MonkeyPox), and Genital Herpes (HSV)
- Parasitic, like Pubic lice, Trichomoniasis, or Scabies
There are also Fungal infections that are not STIs, but can spread through sexual contact, such as yeast infections (gential thrush).
Anyone who is or who has been sexually active is at risk for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). However, STIs can be prevented through awareness and proper protection and prevention measures. If contracted, many STIs are treatable or manageable, and many are curable.
Preventing the Transmission of STIs
STIs can be transmitted through vaginal sex, anal sex, and oral sex, as well as other types of skin-to-skin contact. They can also be passed on by touching the genitals with fingers (if you have infected fluids on your hands) or the sharing of sex toys.
Below are some ways to stay safe and to prevent the transmission of STIs.
Talking openly with your sexual partner(s) about things like STI prevention, testing history, preventative methods, preferred products, and any possible symptoms or infections can help keep everyone safe. It also helps build trust and shows respect for each other, which is part of every healthy sexual relationship.
Consider using a barrier method of STI prevention for vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Barrier methods are designed to restrict infected cells passing from one body to another. They also keep sperm from reaching an egg.
Types of barriers include condoms (internal and external), oral dams, diaphragms, cervical caps, and the contraceptive sponge. Not all barrier methods of contraception protect against STIs—only condoms and oral dams provide STI prevention. Oral dams can provide STI protection for oral sex, as well as genital and anal stimulation. Many people use one or more types of protection during sex, especially if they are looking to prevent a pregnancy, as well as STIs.
Free internal and external condoms are available at the Wellness Centre, SVPRO, and AMS SASC. You can also buy specialized condoms and oral dams from the Wellness Centre Sexual Health Shop.
Condoms are also available for purchase at any drug store or pharmacy. There are different types of products for different bodies; some are made of latex, and some aren’t. People usually try a few different products before learning what is right for them.Staff at the Wellness Centre Sexual Health Shop can also provide more information about safer sex practices and answer any questions about sexual health.
Getting the HPV and Hepatitis A and B vaccines helps provide protection against STIs. Check your vaccination history and talk to a healthcare provider or a pharmacist to keep your vaccinations up-to-date if possible.You can also get vaccinated at Student Health Service on campus. There may be a cost for certain vaccines, while some are covered through your extended health plan.
Many STIs have no symptoms. Getting an STI test is the only way to know if you or a sexual partner has any STIs.
Most testing options are fast, confidential, and painless. When you are getting tested, this is a good opportunity to ask your healthcare provider what the test includes, and any further information on protection, prevention, and risk factors.
If you test positive, your provider will recommend treatment and connect you with additional support and resources. Many STIs are manageable or even curable, if they are tested for and diagnosed early. If STIs go untreated, they can lead to more complicated and serious illnesses.
For STI testing on campus, visit Student Health Service. For clinics outside of campus, use the Smart Sex Clinic Finder tool.
PrEP, short for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a tablet that reduces the risk of being infected with HIV and can be taken by people who are HIV-negative. If someone is exposed to HIV, the medication in PrEP stops HIV from multiplying and establishing itself in the body. PrEP prevents HIV, but does not prevent any other STIs. People of all genders, sexualities and bodies may be eligible for PrEP.
PEP, short for Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, is a medication that can prevent HIV infection after a possible exposure. It must be started within 3 days after the potential HIV exposure, but the sooner it’s taken, the more effective it is.
Doxy-PEP, short for Doxycycline Post-Exposure Prophylaxis, is an oral dose of an antibiotic called doxycycline that is taken within 72 hours (3 days) of having sex (oral, anal, or vaginal) to protect against syphilis and chlamydia. Doxy-PEP is most likely to benefit people at higher risk of syphilis, such as gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), and transgender women, especially with recent syphilis or multiple recent STIs. Doxy-PEP is not 100% effective for all STIs. Regular STI testing is still recommended when taking it.
Pregnancy and birth control
Pregnancy
If you know or think you may be pregnant, taking a pregnancy test is a good first step. There are many options for tests and many are available at any drug store or pharmacy in British Columbia. There are also low-cost pregnancy test options for purchase at the Wellness Centre on campus. If a pregnancy test is confirmed as positive, the next best step is to talk to a medical professional.
A doctor or nurse can also do a pregnancy test for you, and discuss what your options are. They will have information about birth control, parenting, abortion, and other resources and next steps. You can book an appointment with the Student Health Service on campus, or visit a clinic in Vancouver to get support.
Preventing pregnancy
Birth control, also known as contraception, is one way to prevent pregnancy. There are many different methods available, and most are affordable or free in British Columbia, have little to no side-effects, and work well when used correctly. It’s best to talk to a healthcare provider to discuss which is best for your body and your needs. Learn more about the different types of birth control.
You can also call 811 in British Columbia to speak with a nurse at any time if you have questions or concerns. It’s important to remember that no method of contraception is 100% effective, but finding the right option for you can help you feel more confident and in control of your sexual health.
Accessing birth control
External condoms are a popular form of contraception and also, when used correctly, can protect against the transmission of STIs. You can pick up free internal and external condoms at the Wellness Centre, SVPRO or AMS SASC. They are also available for purchase in any pharmacy, sex toy store, or drugstore.
There are also other barrier methods such as the diaphragm or cervical cap, which must be prescribed by a health care professional.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs), Contraceptive Implants, and Contraceptive Injections must be prescribed and administered by a doctor or by a nurse practitioner.
Free, generic options are available for British Columbia residents through your Medical Services Plan (MSP). Learn more about free contraception for BC residents. For non-BC residents, there may be an associated fee.
You can also get a prescription for an IUD or birth control implant through Student Health Service on campus. Your practitioner can discuss the device with you, as well as any possible side effects or follow-up care and procedures.
Additional hormonal methods, like the hormonal birth control pill, the patch, or a vaginal ring, require a prescription from a healthcare provider, such as a doctor or a pharmacist. These can be filled at most pharmacies.
You can also book an appointment with Student Health Service to get a prescription or to learn more about the options. Walk-in clinics can also provide prescriptions. Use the Medimap tool to find a health clinic near you.
Emergency contraception
If you are experiencing an unintended pregnancy, emergency contraception (EC) may be an option for you.
Emergency contraception (often known as Plan B) is a contraceptive method used after sex has occurred. It is used to prevent pregnancy if you had vaginal sex with no contraceptive protection or if your contraception method failed. An example is when there is a broken condom, or when birth control pills are taken late or missed.
Emergency contraception is available as a pill that can be taken within 5 days of vaginal sex. The sooner you take it after the sexual encounter, the more effective it is. Taking it within the first 12 to 24 hours after sex is the most effective. It can be found at any pharmacy and does not require a prescription.
Emergency Contraception is only meant to be used occasionally, and not as regular birth control. It also does not protect against STIs.
Additional resources
Online self-help information
Find clinics and resources, or contact the anonymous phone line to talk about sexual health.
Learn about sexual health topics, STI testing options, find a clinic, or chat with a nurse online.
Peer support
Peer Health Educators at the Wellness Centre are trained students who can answer your sexual health questions or connect you with resources.
Get free, confidential one-on-one support on various topics, like relationship issues or identity questions.
Connect with a health professional
Book an appointment with a doctor or nurse for prescriptions, testing, IUD insertion, and more.
Book an appointment with a counsellor to discuss any sex, sexuality, or relationship concerns you may have.
Call the number 811 in British Columbia to speak with a nurse or get free health information and advice.
Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO)
Connect with an SVPRO specialist if you’ve been impacted by any form of sexual or gender-based violence, harassment, or harm.
AMS Sexual Assault Support Centre (SASC)
Get short-term crisis support or talk to a support worker in a confidential and safe space.
Call, chat online, or use the mobile app to get free, immediate, 24/7 mental health counselling for any concerns you may have.