Getting Condoms
There are numerous ways to get condoms. If you are at school, many secondary schools and universities offer free condoms at the nurse’s office, the clinic, the women’s center, or the glbtq space (gay-lesbian-bisexual-transgender-queer, or any combination of those). Take advantage of free condoms. Often, they are in more places than you expect (available at some residences or athletic centers), and easy to pick up.
You can also pick up free condoms at sexual health clinics and centers in most cities.
Sometimes you can get subsidized condoms through health centers or doctor’s offices. Your health insurance plan might also help you get free or cheaper protection.
Condoms are available at all drug stores and pharmacies, and most grocery stores and convenience stores as well. There are even vending machines that sell condoms; see our notes on condom storage.
Don’t be embarrassed to buy condoms. Today, both men and women buy condoms often.
You can also order condoms online, and have them delivered to your house. This is often a good choice if you are looking for specialty condoms (remember to check that they protect against pregnancy and STIs!) or if you want to order a large number.
Have a few condoms someplace easy to access if you need them. It’s easier than having to spoil the mood to run to the corner store. See our tips on condom storage as well.
Condoms are a simple, non-prescription method of birth control that also protects against sexually transmitted diseases or infections. They are widely available. Don’t be afraid to pick some up. It’s better to blush a little at the counter than to die of embarrassment, if you get AIDS from being too shy to protect yourself.
