What Does “Unprotected Sex” Really Mean?

Let’s say you just met someone new and are getting along really well. You’ve hung out a few times in groups, a few times on your own, and the two of you seem to be hitting it off. You’re both excited to explore the physical attraction you have for each other. 

Next, let’s say you’re in bed with this person it looks like you’re about to have sex. But before things heat up too much, they stop and say they want to have sex, but they don’t want to have unprotected sex. You agree but aren’t sure if your definition of “unprotected sex” is the same as theirs. What now?

It’s always a good idea to make sure you and your partner are on the same page in terms of sex before you have it, and going over how each of you define sex is important to make sure each person feels safe, and their boundaries are respected. 

That said, “unprotected sex” can refer to one of two things. First, it can mean having penis-in-vagina sex without using a method of birth control that will prevent pregnancy (such as IUDs, implants, the ring, and the pill, all of which are available for free or at a low-cost at your nearest The Right Time health center). But “unprotected sex” could also mean engaging in any sexual activity without using a method of birth control that will prevent the spread of STIs, such as condoms and internal condoms.

Whatever “unprotected sex” means to you, take some time before things get hot to make sure it means the same thing to your partner. And for free or low-cost access to birth control methods that can prevent pregnancy and the transmission of STIs, make an appointment to talk to a provider at your nearest The Right Time health center.