Sexual Health Information

  • Your health matters and your sexual health has a big effect on your physical, mental, and emotional well-being!

    Confidentiality

    Any information regarding services and appointments is kept strictly confidential. This information is not available to family, friends, or administration without your written authorization.

    SSWS will connect you to community resources for:

    • HIV testing
    • Contraceptive services
    • Emergency contraception
    • Obstetrical care
    • Specialized gynecologic procedures

    SSWS provides sexual health counseling services for:

    • Support and information for negotiating safer sex and choosing abstinence
    • Assistance in choosing a contraceptive method
    • Pregnancy testing and options counseling and referrals
    • General health concerns

    Emergency contraceptive pills are currently not available on campus.

    The pill can be purchased over the counter at the pharmacy without a prescription. Although recommended to be given within 72 hours, recently published literature indicates that EC (emergency contraception) is effective even up to five days post-incident.The sooner it is given, the better.  For ECP options and resources, call 833-438-6922.

    When is emergency contraception appropriate?

    No contraceptive method is 100% effective, and few couples can use their method perfectly every time they have intercourse. Emergency contraception provides an important safety net when:

    • A condom breaks.
    • No contraceptives are used.
    • A woman misses two or more contraceptive pills in a row or starts a new pack two or more days late.
    • A diaphragm or cervical cap slips out of place.
    • A woman is more than two weeks late for a contraceptive injection.
    • Intercourse occurs unexpectedly and without contraceptive protection.
    • A woman is raped.

    Emergency Contraception is not a substitute for regular contraceptive use. It is less effective than regular contraception (used correctly) and provides no protection from HIV or sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, in emergency situations, it can play an important role as a backup for other methods. It is second-chance contraception.

    Confidential Rapid HIV antibody testing is available. Please contact SSWS for more information. The rapid HIV test takes 20 minutes to process. The service is free of charge.

Sexual Health Resources

Contraception

  • Contraception | CDC

    In choosing a method of contraception, the Student Support and Wellness Services is available to assist and provide resources. There are several types of contraception available. The most commonly used methods of contraception include:

    1. Birth Control Pills: These are oral medications that contain hormones (either a combination of estrogen and progestin or progestin-only) to prevent pregnancy. They are taken daily at the same time.
    2. Injectable Contraception: This is a hormonal method of contraception that involves receiving an injection of progestin. It needs to be injected every 12 weeks (about 3 months).
    3. Vaginal Rings: These are flexible rings that are inserted into the vagina and release hormones (estrogen and progestin) to prevent pregnancy. They are left in place for three weeks and then removed for one week to allow for menstruation.
    4. Patch: The contraceptive patch is a small adhesive patch that is applied to the skin and releases hormones (estrogen and progestin) to prevent pregnancy. It is worn for one week and then replaced weekly for three weeks, followed by one patch-free week.
    5. Intrauterine Device (IUD): This is a small T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. There are two types of IUDs: hormonal and copper. Hormonal IUDs release progestin and can provide contraception for several years. Copper IUDs do not contain hormones and can provide contraception for up to 10 years.
    6. Implants (Nexplanon): These are small, flexible rods that are inserted under the skin of the upper arm by a healthcare provider. They release progestin to prevent pregnancy and can provide contraception for up to three years.
    7. Condoms (both internal and external): Condoms are barrier methods of contraception that are worn externally on the penis (external condoms) or internally in the vagina (internal condoms). They are typically made of latex, polyurethane, or lambskin, and they act as physical barriers to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. Condoms also provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) when used consistently and correctly.

    Disclaimer: This list outlines various commonly used methods of contraception. It's important to note that while these methods are effective when used correctly, there are other methods available that may not be as effective individually but can be used in conjunction with other birth control methods for added protection. It's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable contraception method based on individual needs and circumstances.

    Emergency Contraception - US SPR | CDC

    Emergency contraception, (Common brand name: Plan B) also known as the "morning-after pill," is a form of birth control that can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It contains a higher dose of the hormone progestin than regular birth control pills and works by preventing or delaying ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of a fertilized egg.

    In Maryland, emergency contraception is available over-the-counter without a prescription to individuals of any age. This means that anyone can purchase and use emergency contraception without needing to see a healthcare provider or obtain a prescription.

    It is important to note that emergency contraception is not the same as the abortion pill (also known as medication abortion or RU-486). The abortion pill is used to terminate an existing pregnancy, while emergency contraception is used to prevent pregnancy from occurring in the first place.

Sexual Violence - Coping, Reporting, and Preventing

  • Sexual violence is a widespread issue affecting millions in the United States, often underreported due to stigma and fear. This section provides valuable information on dealing with and reporting sexual violence, understanding its types, recognizing its effects, and accessing essential resources.

    Types of Sexual Violence

    Safe Connections Types of Sexual Violence

    Explore various types of sexual violence to better understand the spectrum of experiences survivors may face.

    Effects of Sexual Violence

    How to Cope

    • Seek professional counseling to cope with the emotional and psychological impact of sexual violence.
    • Consult healthcare professionals for treatment and/or support that may aid in managing the physical and mental effects.
    • Engage in physical activities and mindfulness practices like meditation to support overall well-being.

    Reporting at BCCC

    If you experience or witness sexual violence at Baltimore City Community College, report the violation to the Report sexual misconduct (TITLE IX).

    • Phone: 410-209-2368
    • Email: bmannings@bccc.edu
    • In-person visit: Office of Human Resources, Suite 230, Main Building Liberty Campus

    "Your privacy and confidentiality are of utmost importance to us. Any information you provide in relation to reporting sexual violence on this campus will be handled with the strictest confidence and in accordance with applicable laws and regulations."

    Reporting Off-Campus

    If you need help or know someone who does, consider reaching out to the following resources:

    Rape, Abuse and Incest National Network’s (RAINN) National Sexual Assault Hotline

    • Call 800.656.HOPE (4673) for connection with a trained staff member.
    • Visit online.rainn.org to chat one-on-one with a trained RAINN support specialist, available 24/7.

    Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault 

    National Sexual Violence Resource Center

    Office on Violence Against Women

    Sexual Assault Forensic Exam

    • Baltimore City - Mercy Medical Center 
    • Greater Baltimore Medical Center

    Prevention Strategies

    Healthy Relationships and Bystander Intervention

    • Foster healthy relationships with information from NSVRC.
    • Learn about bystander intervention, a training method used in post-secondary education institutions to prevent sexual violence (Health NY pdf).

    Seeking help and reporting are crucial steps towards healing and preventing sexual violence. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please contact local authorities or emergency services.