Condoms are your #1 protection against STIs and pregnancy. They are 90% effective and easy to use.
Prevent HIV with PrEP — a daily pill that’s 99% effective. Ask your health provider if PrEP is right for you.
If you had unprotected sex or a condom broke, you have 72 hours to prevent STIs and HIV. Find help right away and get treated with PEP & DoxyPEP.
Take control of your health. Get tested and know your status — it’s no big deal. If you’re going to hook up with someone new, ask them to do the same.
Taking good care of yourself means getting the resources you need to stay healthy. Stay strong by connecting with judgment-free health providers and making healthy choices.
Everyone needs a little help now and then. Get free or low-cost care to help you stay safe and healthy.
Sometimes, it helps to admit it’s awkward to talk about sex … “This feels weird to talk about, but it feels important to bring it up.” The more you talk about sex and STIs, the more others feel safe to do the same. Here are some tips for talking about sex:
If you know someone who is struggling with an HIV or STI diagnosis, you can be a good friend by doing these things:
The more you know, the more you can help. Learn about your friend’s treatment options, and help them find emotional support resources.
Show empathy and let your friends know they can open up to you without being judged.
Show that you care. Say things like “I’m here for you,” or “Let me know how I can help?”
Go with a friend to the clinic to get tested, or to a medical appointment. Offer to give them a ride, or help them with errands or tasks.
Your friend’s status isn’t yours to share. Respecting their privacy is one of the most important ways to show you care.
If you or someone you know has an STI or HIV, here’s how you can reduce stigma and be an ally:
Your attitude matters and sets the tone for others.
Call it out. Saying “That’s not true” makes a difference.
Testing isn’t scary — it’s smart.
The more we talk, the less power stigma has.
Recognize their strength and everything else that makes them amazing.
Be patient with people as they work through their feelings.
LGBTQ+ teens deal with enough – discrimination, bullying, and mental health struggles shouldn’t be part of their story. Creating safe and affirming spaces helps LGBTQ+ teens feel seen, valued, and supported for who they are. Here’s how you can step up:
Use their chosen name and pronouns — it’s basic respect. Make your home a judgment-free zone where they can express themselves without fear.
Advocate for gender-neutral bathrooms, LGBTQ+, and strong anti-bullying rules. Small changes can make a huge difference.
Learn about LGBTQ+ identities and experiences, especially what trans teens go through. Being informed is part of being a good ally.
LGBTQ+ teens have a higher risk of anxiety, depression, and suicide. Be the friend who checks in and encourages them to get help if they need it.
Connect with LGBTQ+ support groups, community centers, or events like Pride. Feeling part of a bigger community can be life changing.
Think HIV and STIs can’t happen to you? Think again. One in five new HIV cases in the U.S. occurs in people aged 13-24. This is about us. Here’s the deal, we are less aware of the risks of HIV and STIs and less likely to get tested for HIV and STIs. We are also 50% more likely to go undiagnosed and untreated. But there’s good news. You can protect yourself with just a few simple steps: use condoms, get tested, and stay informed. Taking control of your sexual health is easier than you think.
Over 50% of new STI cases occur in people aged 15-24.
Nearly half of new HIV cases in Black and Latino/Hispanic MSM happen to people aged 25-34.
1 in 4 sexually active teenage girls has an STI.
70% of new HIV cases are in Black and Latino/Hispanic people.
Black women make up 58% of HIV cases among women – but only 13% of the female population.
Wrap it up. Every time.
It’s not optional, it’s essential.
