Sexual Health and Wellness

Safer Sex Kit Options

• External condom kit— 4 external condoms, 2 lube packets, and a safer sex supply demonstration reference card.
  • External condoms are Lifestyle brand and latex, unless labeled latex-free.
  • External condom varieties include regular, sensitive, extra-strength, latex-free, snugger fit, ultra-thin, ribbed, multi-colored, rough rider Studded, Trustex extra-large, Trojan Magnum, Durex extra-sensitive, Crown lightly lubricated
• Flavored external condom kit (for oral sex only)— 2 flavored external condoms, 2 flavored lube packets, and a safer sex supply demonstration reference card
  • Flavored external condoms are Lifestyle brand and flavored strawberry, vanilla, banana, etc. Lube is ID Fruitopia flavored strawberry, vanilla, etc.
• Dental dam kit (for oral sex only)— 1 Dental dam, 1 unflavored lube packet, 1 flavored lube, and a safer sex supply demonstration reference card
  • Dental Dams are flavored Latex and Line One Labs brand. Lubricant is ID Glide Water Based (unflavored) and ID Fruitopia (flavored).
• Internal condom kit— 1 internal condom, 2 lube packets, and an internal condom demonstration reference card.
  • Internal condoms are FC2 brand and are made from nitrile (latex-free)

Pick up supplies for yourself at the following Uptown locations:

• Student Health Center— There are four safer sex stations. The first is located at the front entrance, near the pharmacy. This includes safer sex kits and menstrual hygiene products. The second and third stations are located on the second floor, in the bathrooms next to the check-in desk. The fourth station is located at the check-in desk on the third floor.
• Reily Student Recreation Center— Safer sex supply stations can be found in both the locker rooms (located on the first floor) and in the gender-neutral, male, and female bathrooms on each of the three floors. Menstrual supplies can be found in the genderneutral and female bathrooms.
• Richardson Memorial Hall— The safer sex and menstrual hygiene station is located between the sinks in the communal bathroom on the first floor.
• The Goldman Center for Student Accessibility (Howard-Tilton Library, basement floor)— Safer sex supplies and menstrual hygiene products are distributed in the Academic Learning and Tutoring Center (ALTC) and the Goldman Center. Menstrual supplies are also distributed to the women’s bathrooms on each floor.
• Lavin-Bernick Center for University Life— Safer sex stations are located in the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Programs (OFSP), the Case Management and Victim Support Services (CMVSS) office, and the Student Organizations Center (SOC). All of these offices are located on the basement level.
• Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) Building 103, Diboll Complex, beneath the parking garage— The safer sex and menstrual hygiene station is located near the front desk.
• Alcée Fortier Hall / Center for Public Service (CPS)— The safer sex and menstrual hygiene station is located in the gender-neutral bathroom on the first floor, next to the Center for Public Service (CPS).
• Mussafer Hall— The safer sex and menstrual hygiene station is located on a table next to the communal bathrooms.
• Office of International Students & Scholars (OISS) 6901 Willow St.— The safer sex and menstrual hygiene station is located in past the check-in desk, in the restroom down the hallway.
• All residence halls

Pick up supplies for yourself at the following Downtown locations:

• Elk Place— 2nd and 3rd floor restrooms
• Tidewater— 1st and 12th floor restrooms
• Murphy— 5th floor restrooms, 6th floor lounge restrooms
• Hutchinson— 1st floor restrooms

If you are staff, faculty, an RA/RD, or a student organization, you can request safer sex supplies to give out in your spaces, classes, and events by filling out our Materials Request Form.

Emergency contraception, frequently referred to as Plan B, is a method of contraception that can be used to prevent pregnancy after sexual intercourse. Emergency contraception is recommended for use within 5 days of having unprotected intercourse, but it is more effective the sooner it is used.

Emergency contraception will not end an existing pregnancy. Emergency contraception does not treat or prevent STIs; you can talk to your doctor if you suspect you’ve been exposed to an STI.

Emergency contraception can be used in a number of situations following sexual intercourse. These include:

• When no contraception has been used
• Sexual assault
• When there is concern of possible contraceptive failure, from improper or incorrect use (for example, if a condom breaks)

1. Levonorgestrel is the generic name of the emergency contraception pill you can access without a prescription. You might know it as Plan B, OneStep, Take Action, or other names, but they are all the same medication.
2. Emergency contraception should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sexual intercourse. Levonorgestrel can be taken up to 3 days after, but is less effective the longer you wait.
3. Taking EC will not end a pregnancy; it can only prevent pregnancy. Emergency contraception works by delaying the release of an egg, so it is never fertilized in the first place.
4. Emergency contraception pills are safe. You might have side effects like nausea and a headache and may have an irregular period that month. Always talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about your health.
5. Levonorgestrel may be less effective for people who weigh more than 165 lbs. If this applies to you, talk with a healthcare provider about ulipristal acetate (Ella), a prescription emergency contraception pill that may work better for you.
6. You can also talk with a healthcare provider about the copper IUD, which is a highly effective form of emergency contraception and a long-acting, non-hormonal birth control option. It must be inserted within 5 days of unprotected sexual intercourse to work as emergency contraception.
7. Emergency contraception does not protect against STIs. To reduce your risk, use a barrier method, such as a condom or dental dam, during sexual activity.

There are 2 types of emergency contraceptive pills:

• Levonorgestrel (Plan B One Step, Take Action, My Way, AfterPill, and others)
  • This type of EC best when you take them within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex, but you can take them up to 5 days after. The sooner you take them, the better they work.
  • You can buy this medication over-the-counter without a prescription in most drugstores and pharmacies.
  • Levonorgestrel is available for free without a prescription at the Student Health Center Pharmacy.
  • This form of emergency contraception is most effective for people who weigh under 165 lbs. It is less likely to be effective if you weigh more than 165 lbs.
• Ulipristal acetate (Ella)
  • You can take Ella up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex, and it works just as well on day 5 as it does on day 1.
  • Ella is more effective than over-the-counter emergency contraception pills, including for people who weigh more than 165 lbs.
  • Ella is less effective if you weigh more than 195 lbs.
  • If you weigh more than 195 lbs but still need emergency contraception, talk to your doctor as soon as possible about other options.
  • You need a prescription from a medical provider to get Ella.
  • Contact the Student Health Center to make an appointment for an Ella prescription that can be filled at the pharmacy.

Sexual and reproductive health are an important part of your overall well-being. The clinicians at the Health Center offer many services to Tulane students that support common sexual and reproductive health needs.

Learn more about Campus Health's sexual health services

At Tulane, Campus Health offers two types of STI testing options:

Get Yourself Tested (GYT) clinic

• Screenings are for those who have no symptoms and no recent exposure to an STI.
• Test screen for HIV, Gonorrhea, and Chlamydia.
• There are no limits on how many times a student can use GYT.
• GYT visits are confidential and are not recorded for insurance claims.

To make a GYT appointment, please call the Student Health Center Uptown at 504-865-5255 or the Student Health Center Downtown at 504-988-6929.

Learn more about GYT screening

STI testing

• Screenings are for those with symptoms such as rash, sores, bumps, itching, burning, pain, odor, discharge, and/or bleeding in your genital region and/or those who have been exposed to an STI.
• Testing screens for HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, genital herpes, syphilis, trichomoniasis, and HPV.
• STI testing is provided as a medical appointment that is submitted to your health insurance.

To schedule an STI testing appointment, call 504-865-5255 or schedule via the Patient Portal.

Learn more about STI testing

Gynecological care is provided at the Health Center by experienced health care providers who are considerate of the sensitive nature of the visits.

Some patients with more complex gynecological concerns may be referred to an OB/GYN specialist in the New Orleans community. Prenatal care is provided off campus and covered by the Tulane-sponsored Student Health Insurance Plan.

On-Campus Services

• Breast exam
• Gynecological exam
• Pap smear
• Other health maintenance testing as needed
• HPV vaccine
• Evaluation of menstrual and other gynecologic concerns or disorders such as:
  • Vaginitis
  • Urinary tract infections
  • Pelvic pain
  • Sexual concerns
• Contraceptive (birth control) counseling/management
• IUD insertion/removal, Nexplanon insertion/removal (Available by appointment at the Uptown location only)
• Contraceptive injections (i.e. Depo-Provera) *Established patients only.
• Pregnancy testing
• Pregnancy options counseling
• Emergency contraception prescriptions (if needed)

To make an appointment, call 504-865-5255 or schedule via the Patient Portal.

The Health Center provides sexual and reproductive health services for individuals with male reproductive anatomy. All visits are confidential, professional, and treat a variety of sexual health concerns including:

• HIV prevention, testing, management, and support (including PrEP prescriptions)
• Consultation and treatment for concerns related to sexual functioning (early ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, trouble with orgasm, etc.)
• Counseling and support for concerns related to sexual intimacy, sexual functioning, and sexual trauma

To make an appointment, call 504-865-5255 or schedule via the Patient Portal.

Learn more about gender-affirming care here.

Pick up supplies for yourself at the following Uptown locations:

• Student Health Center— Located at the Safer Sex Supply Kiosk at the Student Health Center (building #92, 1st floor, in lobby by pharmacy)
• Reily Student Recreation Center— Located in all gender neutral and female bathrooms.
• Richardson Memorial Hall— Located in the communal bathroom on the first floor.
• Howard-Tilton Library— Located in women’s bathrooms on each floor.
• Counseling and Psychiatric Services (CAPS) Building 103, Diboll Complex, beneath the parking garage— Located near the front desk
• Alcée Fortier Hall / Center for Public Service (CPS)— located in the gender-neutral bathroom on the first floor, next to the Center for Public Service (CPS).
• Mussafer Hall— Located next to the communal bathrooms
• Office of International Students & Scholars (OISS) 6901 Willow St.— Located near the bathrooms past the check-in desk

Pick up supplies for yourself at the follow Downtown locations:

• Tidewater— all-gender restrooms
• Elk Place— all-gender restrooms
• Murphy— all-gender restrooms

TUPHE Information Table

• TUPHEs can provide information tables at events to cover a variety of topics including alcohol, tobacco, and other drug misuse prevention, mental well-being, and nutrition. Many of TUPHEs workshop topics can also be adapted into interactive tabling events Please provide details in the comment section in the request form.

SAPHE Information Table 

• SAPHEs can provide information tables at events to cover a variety of topics including sexual violence prevention, intervention, and survivor support. Please provide details in the comment section in the request form.

The Well for Health Promotion Information Table

• The Well for Health Promotion's professional staff can provide information tables at events to cover a variety of health topics and services provided by our office. The subjects we cover include:
  • Alcohol and other drugs
  • Mental health
  • Sexual health
  • Sexual violence prevention
  • Sleep hygiene
• We can provide information and resources around each of these topics or focus on one in particular.

The Buzz

• Originally developed at the University of Arizona’s Campus Health Services, The Buzz is an alcohol education presentation that uses interactive activities and myth busting facts to facilitate a conversation about alcohol use on college campuses. This presentation involves trivia and games to provide useful information about alcohol in a playful and relaxed way.
• Presented by TUPHEs; available virtually and in-person.

Risk in the Mix

• This 15-20 minute workshop details the interactions of different drugs with alcohol. From birth control and over the counter medications to illicit drugs, learn how overdose symptoms may present, and the best emergency response techniques in such scenarios. Due to its short nature, this workshop is perfect for an organization or chapter meeting. 

• Presented by TUPHEs. 

Are You a Sexpert? 

• An hour-long workshop aimed at expanding students' sexual education beyond what is traditionally taught. The jeopardy game style workshop covers five different topics: pleasure, toys, reproductive rights, gender and sexuality, and questions you're too afraid to ask.

• Presented by TUPHEs. 

The Consent Conversation 

• A critical element of consensual sex is communication. This workshop addresses the many facets of consent, including what consensual language can look like, how to negotiate personal desires and preferences, how to respond to rejection, and how alcohol and other substance-use impact sexual decision-making. 

• Presented by SAPHEs; available virtually and in-person. 

Narco Knowledge 

• A 50-minute presentation about illegal drugs, misuse of prescription drugs, and the risks associated with mixing alcohol and drugs. Discussion points include alcohol and drugs, harmful combinations, and non-medical use of prescriptions. 

• Presented by TUPHEs; available virtually and in-person. 

Prioritize YOU! A Self-Care Workshop 

• Learn about self-care strategies and stress reduction. Discussion points include specific reasons why we get stressed, sleep promotion tips, stress management strategies, and information about supportive campus resources. Participants will practice self-care techniques including diaphragmatic breathing, environmental stress management techniques, and will create their own self-care bag. 

• Presented by TUPHEs; available virtually and in-person. 

One Wave Workshop 

• Aa one-hour conversation that provides foundational knowledge and skills on how each of us can help keep our peers and communities safe from sexual violence. After this training you will be able to recognize potential moments of harm, acknowledge barriers that stop us from acting, and identify realistic ways to intervene.

• Any size group is welcome. Presented by TUPHEs.

Fueling the Wave Workshop

• A 50-minute presentation on the importance of nutrition, eating disorder prevention, and intuitive eating as a college student. Includes a nutritious snack demonstration and highlights available campus resources. 

• Presented by TUPHEs; available virtually and in-person. 

Understanding Sexual Violence 101

• A workshop focused on providing participants with basic information about sexual violence and its impact on our campus. The workshop includes definitions, statistics, and facts that challenge common myths about sexual violence. 

• Presented by SAPHEs; available virtually and in-person. 

Supporting Survivors

• A workshop focused on understanding the impacts of sexual violence on both individuals and communities. It explains how to support survivors through skills including empathetic listening and affirming language. 

• Presented by SAPHEs; available virtually and in-person. 

Un(Healthy) Relationships 

• A workshop focused on establishing the differences between healthy, unhealthy, and abusive relationships. The workshop includes activities that allow participants to define commonly misunderstood terms, practice healthy communication, and identify potential red flags in relationships. 

• Presented by SAPHEs; available virtually and in-person.

Safer Sex

• Sexual health education is necessary for everyone. In this workshop, participants will bust common myths, learn about STI prevention and contraceptives, and identify how to access them both on campus and in the community. Participants will also learn how to communicate with a partner about sexual health in a healthy way. By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with a shared understanding of safer sex practices. 

• Presented by SAPHEs; available virtually and in-person.

Calm Your Waves

• Mindfulness is an established practice proven to decrease stress and anxiety, while enhancing a sense of well-being. In this one-hour workshop, attendees will learn the fundamentals of mindfulness, participate in guided exercises, and discuss realistic strategies to bring mindfulness into their daily lives.
• Less than 20 participants presented by professional staff; quiet and closed off location required.

Sexual & Reproductive Anatomy

• Never learned the names for what’s down there? Not quite sure how your or your partners’ anatomy works? This 50-minute workshop gives insight into the incredible diversity of sexual and reproductive anatomy that exists amongst us. Participants will not just learn the names and functions of anatomy, but also their roles in personal sexual health and pleasure.
• Presented by professional staff; available virtually and in-person.

STIs, Testing, and Prevention

• This 50-minute workshop will cover the basics of STIs, information about testing, and tips for preventing STIs. It will also provide participants with opportunities to practice having challenging conversations about sexual health with partners.
• Presented by professional staff; available virtually and in-person.

The Well fulfills requests for health promotion bulletin boards/posters and safer sex supplies via our materials request form. Requests require 48 to 72 business hours to process. After you submit your request, you will receive an email letting you know when the materials are ready to be picked up. If you do not hear from us, please call 504-3147400.

Please note that orders are not processed during holidays, weekends, or any time the University is closed. Materials are provided for Tulane students and are not available for other uses.

Healthy communication is an important part of any relationship, whether it's casual, committed, or somewhere in between. Being able to talk openly about your needs, boundaries, and expectations helps build trust and create a more positive experience for everyone involved.

Communication can look like:

• Telling your partner how you like and don’t like to be touched
• Asking your partner how they like and don’t like to be touched
• Using pronouns that make your partner comfortable and affirm their identity
• Talking about what contraception you will use
• Checking in with your partner during sexual interactions

Boundaries are personal limits that help you feel safe and respected. They can be emotional, physical, or sexual, and they may change over time. You have the right to set boundaries, communicate them clearly, and change your mind at any point.

Boundary setting can look like:

• “I like this, but I don’t want to go further.”
• “I’m not comfortable with that.”
• “I’m not ready to have sex.”
• “I want to talk about what we are both comfortable with before we start.”
• “I am interested in getting to know you, but I am not looking for a relationship right now.”
• “I’m not comfortable sharing intimate photos or sexting.”

Strong communication also means listening to your partner, respecting their boundaries, and checking in with each other before, during, and after sexual activity. Honest conversations may feel awkward at first, but they become easier with practice—and they're an important part of healthy relationships. Respecting a partner’s boundaries can look like:

• “I totally respect that. Thanks for telling me.”
• “I’m glad you told me what you are comfortable with.”
• “No problem, we can do something else that you are comfortable with.”

Masturbation is a common and healthy way for many people to explore their bodies, learn what feels good, and better understand their sexual preferences. People choose to masturbate for many different reasons—or not at all. Both are completely normal.

Visit this Planned Parenthood link to learn more about the different types of sex toys, how to use them, and where to get them.

A Guide to Safer Solo Sex

Know your materials

• Aim for non-porous materials such as sanitary-grade silicone. Other safe materials include stainless steel, borosilicate glass (such as Pyrex), and ABS plastics.
• Avoid toys made of porous materials, which can promote bacterial growth. This includes PVC, TPR, TPE, and jelly rubber, which may contain phthalates (chemicals linked to potential health risks). Latex is another porous material to avoid, especially if you have a latex allergy.
• When possible, choose flexible and durable toys.

Cleaning & storage

• Motorized toys: Wash with warm water and soap or use a sex toy cleaner.
• Non-motorized toys: Wash with soap and water. To sanitize, boil or use top rack of dishwasher if allowed (check instructions).
• Store toy in a fabric bag or clean container to protect from dust and dirt.
• Clean your toy before every use, even if it's been properly stored.

Things to keep in mind

• Water-based and silicone-based lubricants are generally safe with most toys.
• Avoid silicone lubricants with silicone toys — they can degrade the material.
• Don't use oil-based lubricants with latex condoms or dental dams— oil can cause tearing.
• Use a barrier method (ex: condom) when sharing toys or switching between body parts.

Reproductive Anatomy vs Erogenous Zones

• Reproductive anatomy refers to the body parts that are involved in reproduction. These structures may produce reproductive hormones, support sexual function, or play a role in conception and pregnancy. Examples of reproductive anatomy include:
  • Ovaries
  • Uterus
  • Fallopian Tubes
  • Vulva and vagina
  • Penis
  • Testes
• Erogenous zones are areas of the body that may produce pleasurable sensations when stimulated. These areas are connected to the body's sensory nerves and can contribute to arousal and sexual pleasure. Erogenous zones vary from person to person, but some common examples are:
  • Neck
  • Lips
  • Genitals
  • Inner thighs
  • Chest and nipples
  • Ears
  • Belly button or lower stomach

What is sexual pleasure

Sexual pleasure is the physical, emotional, and psychological enjoyment and satisfaction experienced during sexual arousal or activity. Consent and communication are an essential part of pleasure. When everyone involved feels heard, safe, and respected, it creates an environment where people can communicate their needs, explore what feels good, and have more fulfilling experiences.

Pleasure isn’t just about orgasms. In fact, many times orgasm is not the goal or the marker of “success.” It can look like:

• Feeling calm and relaxed
• Feeling desired and cared for
• Feeling emotionally intimate or connected
• Feeling powerful or empowered

Consent is the indication that a person has given permission to participate in an agreed-upon sexual activity; it is informed, freely given, and active.

Asking for consent might sound like:

• Can we check in?
• Can we try this?
• Do you want to take this further?
• Can I send you a nude?
• Are you comfortable with this?

Receiving consent might sound like:

• Yes!
• I love the way this feels. Please don’t stop.
• I’m comfortable with that.
• I want to try that.

Coercion is the use of an unreasonable amount of pressure to gain sexual access. It is more than an effort to persuade, entice, or attract another person to have sex.

Coercion might sound like:

• If you don’t, someone else will.
• We've already started. You can’t make me stop.
• It’s been weeks. You must not love me anymore.
• After everything I have done for you, you’re really going to turn me down?

Healthy vs Unhealthy Sexual Relationships

We often talk about what makes a relationship healthy—like trust, respect, and communication—but sexual relationships deserve their own conversation. Sexual experiences involve unique aspects of communication, vulnerability, boundaries, and consent that may not always come up in conversations about relationships more broadly.

This topic is especially important for college students of whom many are experiencing dynamic sexual relationships for the first time. Understanding what a healthy sexual relationship looks like can help students discuss sexuality more openly, feel more comfortable expressing their preferences and boundaries, and develop sexual relationships that are centered in mutual respect, trust, and care.

A healthy sexual relationship may include:

• Open and honest communication about wants, needs, and boundaries.
• Mutual enthusiasm and respect for each person’s comfort and boundaries.
• Feeling safe saying “yes,” “no,” or “not right now.”
• Checking in with each other before, during, and after sexual activity.
• Respecting privacy and personal choices.
• Feeling valued as a whole person, not just for sexual experiences.

An unhealthy sexual relationship may include:

• Feeling pressure, guilt, or obligation to participate in sexual activity.
• Ignoring or dismissing someone’s boundaries or comfort.
• Difficulty communicating openly about comfort, safety, or expectations.
• Using sex to control, manipulate, or gain power over someone.
• Feeling unable to change your mind or say no.
• Disrespecting someone’s privacy or sharing intimate information without consent.