When it comes to sexual health, having the right resources for you and your partner can make all the difference for a healthy relationship. Whether it’s condoms, oral contraception or getting tested, NYU has got you covered — literally. Here’s everything you need to know about where to go and what’s available on campus.

Birth control and contraception

Birth control, or contraception, is a preemptive measure used to prevent or lower the risk of pregnancy. Both internal and external condoms as well as lubricant are available for free at all residence hall resource centers. Additionally, students can find these supplies at the Center for Multicultural Education and Programs and the LGBTQ+ Center, both located in the Kimmel Center for University Life, as well as the NYU Student Health Center — both its Manhattan and Brooklyn locations. 

Emergency contraception, on the other hand, is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or when a birth control method fails. Students can purchase the generic version of Plan B for $15 at vending machines located at Kimmel on the second, third and seventh floors. Additionally, vending machines are located in four of NYU’s residence halls: Lafayette Hall, Lipton Hall, Othmer Hall and Palladium residence hall — though these are only accessible for building residents and their guests.

At the SHC, appointments can be made free of charge for emergency contraceptive options that require consultations and prescriptions from a medical provider, such as Ella or certain types of IUDs. Students enrolled in a health insurance plan sponsored by NYU can also schedule IUD insertion appointments at no cost.

STI prevention

The prevalence of sexually transmitted infections among young adults is higher than in any other age group, with one in every four college students having had an STI. Being aware of your own HIV and STI status by getting tested is a non-negotiable to ensure both you and your significant other stay safe and healthy.

Dental dams, which are used to protect against the spread of sexually transmitted infections during oral sex, are available at the SHC and the LGBTQ+ Center in Kimmel, as well as upon request at residence hall resource centers. 

The health center also offers a variety of other sexual health services that are completely free of charge regardless of your insurance plan. Testing for HIV and other STIs can be scheduled as an in-person appointment through the SHC Portal, or you can simply let your provider know you’d like to be tested during any primary care or routine gynecologic appointment.

Keep your health information safe

With all of these services and resources in mind, you might be considering how you can protect the confidentiality of your health information, especially something that can be so personal. If you are concerned about parents or family members being able to see things like birth control prescriptions or sexual health-related doctor’s visits, call your insurance company and ask to fill out a Confidential Communications Request Form. This resource is available for anyone over 18 to request that sensitive health information be sent to a specific address or alternate method of contact in order to ensure privacy.