College students live in close quarters with their roommates, share bathrooms, and participate in social activities that make them more prone to catching the flu.  A hangover and dehydration may weaken your immune system making you more susceptible to infections.  Sharing drinks can lead to sharing germs so avoid sipping others drinks or playing games that involve a community drinking cup.  College students also tend to not get enough sleep or eat a balanced diet, which can compromise the immune system. High stress levels are also related to weaken immune systems.  All these factors put college students at increased risks of getting the flu.

How Colds & Flu are Transferred between People

• You can get the flu if someone around you who has the flu coughs or sneezes, or by touching a surface (like a telephone or door knob) that has been contaminated by someone who has the flu. Flu viruses can pass through the air and can enter your body through your nose or mouth. If you’ve touched a contaminated surface, they can pass from your hand to your nose or mouth.
• You are at the greatest risk of getting infected in highly populated areas, such as in crowded living conditions and in schools.
• Good hygienic practices are important in helping to control the spread of the cold and flu. People infected with the cold or the flu can be contagious before showing symptoms, so even if you do not feel ill, you should always practice preventive behaviors. Using antibacterial gels or lotions, as well as thoroughly washing your hands afterward, can help prevent the spread of viruses.

Is this the flu or just a cold?

A cold is a milder respiratory illness than the flu.  A cold usually starts with a sore throat that will last a day or two.  Next nasal symptoms occur such as runny nose and congestion along with a cough.  Fever is not commonly seen in adults with a cold but slight fever is possible.  Flu symptoms are more severe and come on quickly.  Sore throat, fever, headache, muscle aches and soreness, congestion, and cough are typical symptoms of the flu. 

Colds: viral infections of the upper respiratory tract which affects primarily the nose. The first symptoms of a cold are usually a scratchy, sore throat, followed by sneezing and a runny nose. Your temperature is usually normal or only slightly elevated. A mild cough may develop. The common cold doesn’t pose much of a threat to healthy adults, but if passed on to anyone with a chronic illness or weakened immune system, infants or the elderly, it can lead to severe respiratory complications.

Cold Symptoms:

• Mild body aches
• Mild fatigue
• Wet cough
• Nasal drainage
• Runny nose
• Gradual onset
• Fizzles within 7-10 days

 The Flu:  Flu symptoms usually develop fairly quickly and include a headache, dry cough and chills. The symptoms rapidly become worse than those of a cold. In fact, it can make you feel like you have been “knocked-off-your-feet,” with muscle aches in the back and legs. A general feeling of tiredness and weakness may last for days or even weeks. There is one clue about flu that can help you know. When you have the flu, you feel flu symptoms sooner than you would cold symptoms, and they come on with much greater intensity

A college student with the flu will usually have a fever of 100 °F or higher and a sore throat or a cough. Other symptoms may include:

• Chills
• Headache
• Sore muscles
• Runny nose
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea and vomiting

 Flu Shots: Myths & Realities

You should get the flu vaccine every year.  This is because each year the dominate strain of the flu changes so researchers develop a new vaccine accordingly.  It’s never too late to get a flu shot.  Many people believe that if they haven’t gotten the flu shot by November then there is not point.  This is not the case as the flu often doesn’t hit its peak until February and sometimes even as late as March. 

Myth 1: The Flu is a serious disease
Fact: Influenza is a serious disease of the nose, throat, and lungs and it can lead to pneumonia. Each year about 200,000 people in the U.S. are hospitalized and about 36,000 people die because of the flu. Most who die are 65 years and older. But small children less than 2 years old are as likely as those over 65 to have to go to the hospital because of the flu.

Myth 2: The Flu shot can cause the flu
Fact: The flu shot can’t cause the flu. Some people get a little soreness or redness where they get the shot and it goes away in a day or two. Serious problems from the flu shot are very rare.

Myth 3: The Flu shot does not work
Fact: Most of the time the flu shot does prevent the flu. In scientific studies the effectiveness of the flu shot has ranged from 70% to 90% when there is a good match between circulating viruses and those in the vaccine. Getting the vaccine is your best protection against this disease.

Myth 4: Only older people need a flu vaccine
Fact: Adults and children with conditions like asthma, diabetes, diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease need to get a flu shot. Doctors also recommend children 6 months and older get a flu shot every year until their 5th birthday.

Tips to Help avoid getting sick this flu season

• Cough into your sleeve, not into your hand
• Carry hand sanitizer with you to use during the day, especially after touching your face
• Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth
• Disinfect areas you touch often such as your desk area, door handles, and light switches.
• Wash your bedding and pillow cases and don’t encourage guests to sit on your bed.
• Don’t share cups and utensils

Take care of yourself if you get the flu

Just because you have had the flu doesn’t mean that you can’t get it again.  You can catch the flu or another bug while you are recovering so be careful and make sure you are taking precautions.  If you have the flu you should wait until you have been without fever for 24 hours before returning to class.  This means that you are fever free without taking any medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or other medicines that lower fever. 

Facts about the flu you may not know

• Don’t take aspirin if you think you have the flu.
• The flu virus spreads through the air when a person who has the virus sneezes, coughs or speaks.
• The flu can also be spread through objects that someone with the virus touches, sneezes or coughs on.
• People carrying the virus can be contagious one day before their symptoms appear and about five to seven days after they first get symptoms.
• It’s unlikely that a healthy teen have serious complications from the flu.  Older adults, young children and people with chronic medical conditions are more likely to become seriously ill with the flu.
• Talk to your doctor if you have an egg allergy before getting the flu vaccine. 

 If you think you may have the flu and would like to be seen by a doctor, please call the Student Health Center at 205-348-6262.

For less fat intake:

• Ask for regular or kids’ size meals, not deluxe
• Skip the extra bacon, cheese, mayonnaise, and sour cream
• Order baked or grilled, not fried
• Don’t forget to order fish or seafood occasionally
• Eat the meat and poultry, not the skin or breading
• Skip fries and onion rings, or get a small order to share
• Avoid items with cream sauces and gravies

For less sugar intake:

• Skip sodas and sweet teas.
• Order regular size drinks
• Try water, unsweetened tea, diet sodas or milk

For more fruits and veggies:

• order tomato, lettuce, and onions on your sandwiches
• Order your pizza with lots of veggies
• Order salad or veggies instead of fries
• Ask for extra veggies

Other healthful ideas:

• Try wraps
• If available, order sandwiches on wheat break
• Eat half and save the other half for later
• Enjoy your company when eating out and focus on them instead of your food

Choosing Healthier Fast Food Options

• Arby’s
  • Best Option: Regular Roast Beef Sandwich, Grilled Chicken Bacon & Swiss, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Arby’s Melt, Beef ‘n Cheddar, Ham & Swiss Melt Sandwich. 
  • Worst Option: Roast Beef & Swiss sandwich, Roast Turkey Ranch & Bacon
• Burger King
  • Best Option: Whopper Jr. Sandwich, Hamburger, Tender grill Chicken Sandwich and salad
  • Worst Option: Double and Triple Whopper, BK Triple & Quad Stacker, Tendercrisp
• Chick-Fil-A
  • Best Option: Chick-fil-A & Chargrilled Chicken Sandwich or wrap, Chicken Delux Sandwich, Chargrilled Chicken Club, Chicken salad Sandwich, Nuggets, Wraps
  • Worst Option: French Fries, Milkshakes
• Domino’s
  • Best Option: Thin Crust Cheese or Veggies
  • Worst Option: Deep Dish Sausage, Pepperoni, and Bacon, Cinna Stix
• KFC
  • Best Option: Salads with Grilled Chicken, Tender Roast Sandwich, Wings
  • Worst Option: Extra Crispy, Chunky Pot Pie, Popcorn Chicken, Coleslaw
• McDonald’s
  • Best Option: Hamburger, Cheeseburger, Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Snack Wrap with Grilled Chicken, Salads with Grilled Chicken
  • Worst Option: Big Mac, Double a Quarter Pounder, Big ‘n Tasty
• Taco Bell
  • Best Option: Any Tacos, Any Gorditas, Bean Burrito, Fiesta & Spicy Chicken Burrito
  • Worst Option: Taco Salad, Stuffed Burrito 
• Wendy’s
  • Best Option: Jr. Hamburger/Cheeseburger/Cheeseburger Deluxe, Ultimate Chicken Grill, Frescatas, Chili, Salads, small frosty
  • Worst Option: Double & Triple with everything and cheese, Baconator, Chicken club

Eating Healthy on the Strip

• Bento
  • Healthy Choices: Edamame, Bento Vegitarian Delight, Teriyaki shrimp, scallors, and chicken with sauce on the side, house salad with ginger vinegar dressing
  • Healthy Eating Tips: order sauces on the side, use a minimum amount of soy sauce, order combo dinners and split with friends if possible
  • When Ordering Sushi Look for broiled, grilled or steamed items, steer clear of friend or battered foods, such as dumplings, tempura, and spider rolls, go light on the sauces, mayonnaise, cream cheese, and the creamy japanese dessing, stay away from eel, which is high in calories and fat
• Buffalo Phil’s
  • Healthy Choices: grilled chicken sandwich, cheese & chicken quesadilla, cajun chicken salad – without cheese or croutons, dinner salad, steamed broccoli
  • Healthy Eating Tips: Order extra celery instead of fries, order a baked potator instead of a loaded potato or fries, ask for wing sauce on the side instead of smothered, limit portion sizes
• The Crimson Cafe
  • Healthy Choices: Turkey sandwich, The Alps Sandwich, Sweet & Spicy Chicken Salad without cheese or bacon and dressing on the side, regular coffee with sugar free sweetener and fat free milk
  • Healthy Eating Tips: Sandwiches with lean meats on wheat bread without mayo and cheese, choose baked chips
• El Rincon & Pepitos
  • Healthy Choices: Taco Salad – without the shell, no cheese or sour cream, choose chicken or black beans instead of beef and salad for dressing
  • Health Eating Tips: Ask for cheese, sour cream, and guacamole on the side, eat less fried tortilla chips, ask the server to not bring them to your table or for flour tortillas instead of chips
• Hooligans
  • Healthy Choices: Garden salad, grilled chicken salad without cheese, tabbouleh, vegetarian burger
  • Healthy Eating Tips: Substitute baked potato for french fries, add salsa or veggie to baked potatoe rather than sour cream and butter, hold the mayo on sandwiches, order low-fat or fat-freee dressings
• Pita Pit
  • Healthy Choices: Pita’s with chicken, turkey, roast beef or tuna, babaganoush or hummus
  • Healthy Eating Tips: order extra veggies, order pitas and salads without cheese, mayo, chipotle and secret sauce, to add flavor, put meat and veggies on the grill and have them cooked with a sauce
• Swen: steamed rice instead of fried rice, watch portion sizes, order steamed or grilled vegtables, grilled chickem instead of fried or crispy, clear soups are lower calorie options
• Hungry Howie’s: order pirzza with thin crust, less cheese, and loaded with veggies instead of meat toppings

 For more information or specific information, please email nutrition@ua.edu to have your questions answered by the Student Health Center’s staff dietician

What you can learn from Nutrition Labels

• Serving size
• Number of servings in the container
• Calories and calories of fat per serving
• Which nutrients, and  in what amounts, are in a product
• % Daily Values of nutrients contained in one serving of the product
• Recommended dietary advice for all Americans in the footnote
• If the food contains allergens
• Ingredients of the food product

 The Anatomy of a Nutrition Label

- Serving Size: the portion size that all the nutrition facts in the label are based on
- Calories – the number of calories in each serving, calories are units of energy and one calorie is equal to the approximately amount of energy needed t raise the temperature of one gram of water by one degree Celsius.
- Total fat – the number of grams of fat in each serving
- Saturated fat – the number of grams of saturated fat in each serving, this type of fate raises blood cholesterol  foods with more than 1 gram of saturated fate per serving should be limited
- Trans Fats – the number of grams of trans fat in a serving, trans fat is a common name for unsaturated fat, consumption of trans fats can increase one’s risk of coronary heart disease by raising levels of LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol  while lowering levels of “good” HDL cholesterol   
- Cholesterol - the number of milligrams in a serving, cholesterol is an essential structural component of cell membrane and is necessary to ensure proper membrane permeability and fluidity, cholesterol also is involved in the body’s production of hormones, bile acids, and vitamin D.  Ingesting excess cholesterol can result in abnormal blood lipid levels (HDL/LDL) which can cause the arteries to harden, a condition called atherosclerosis.
- Sodium – number of milligrams per serving, healthy diets limit sodium to 2,400 milligrams a day, sodium is essential to ensure proper cell function, blood volume, blood pressure, and pH
- Carbohydrates - the number of grams per serving, carbohydrates are not necessary building blocks of other molecules but humans can synthesize glucose from which is necessary for cellular energy
-Dietary Fiber – number of grams of fiber per serving, dietary fiber is the indigestible portion of food derived from plants, fibers helps to produce compounds needed for digestion and to improve bowel mvements bu icnrease bulk and softening stools 
-Protein – number of grams per serving, these are made of amino acides and are involved with cellular metabolic reactions, replicated DNA, responding to stimuli and transporting molecules
-Vitamins & Minerals – the types of vitamin and minerals by daily value percentage recommendations

Making the best food choices without labels

The best types of food without nutrition labels are fruits and vegetables! They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants and can be in the replacement of unhealthy snacks such as chips, cookies, or candy. The FDA provides a chart on their website with the nutritional value of a variety of fruits and vegetables. Fruits such as apples, bananas, and oranges all contain levels of Vitamin A and C as well as calcium and iron. 

Guestimating your meals nutritional value

At home:

• On a piece of paper, write down all of the ingredients and their amounts in your recipe.
• Use the USDA’s website to look up the foods in the database. http://ndb.nal.usda.gov/
• Choose the amount of  food you use for the entire recipe. Look at the number next to “kcal” (kilocalories), which is the same as calories. Write this down on your paper, next to the food.
• Repeat steps 2 and 3 for all of the remaining foods in your recipe.
• Add the number of calories for all of your recipe ingredients.
• Divide the number of total calories in the recipe by the number of servings. 

Out to eat:

• Ask the restaurant: Many restaurants will gladly provide you with the information when asked. You can call ahead and ask about specific dishes or ask in person. You may be provided with a small pamphlet of facts
• Check the restaurant’s website before you go: Many restaurants, such as Olive Garden, Ruby Tuesday, and Applebee’s have their nutrition facts for all food items online!

 For more information or specific information, please email nutrition@ua.edu to have your questions answered by the Student Health Center’s staff dietician

• Protein is found in every cell, muscle and tissue of our body and is also present in many of the foods that we eat. The protein in our body is essentially the same as the protein in our food, except that it is structured differently.
• Proteins are large compounds made by combining amino acids. Protein in the diet is known as a macronutrient and contributes energy (calories) to the body.  Each gram of protein contains 4 calories. Some amino acids can be made in the body and are not essential in your diet.  Amino acids that cannot be produced by the body are called essential amino acids, which should be included in your diet. Proteins sources that contain all essential amino acids are known as complete proteins.  Protein sources that are lacking in essential amino acids are known as incomplete proteins.  Choosing complete protein sources will ensure you are getting all of the amino acids that your body needs.
• Proteins play a major role in the body’s defense mechanism. In fact, antibodies are made up of proteins and are responsible for protecting the body against the harmful organisms such as bacteria, fungi, virus and protozoa. An individual with a compromised immune system refers to a person whose body fails to produce adequate antibodies. Such people need to consume adequate amount of protein supplements to boost their immune system levels.
• Everyone must be aware of the fact that proteins are the building blocks of the body. Our body needs protein for the growth and repair of the tissues and muscles. In short, we can’t do anything without protein. Every cell of the human body contains protein in their structure. It is present in the skin, hair, nails, teeth, muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons and organs of the body. All the body fluids, except bile and urine contain proteins.
• It is also necessary for the production of antibodies, which fight against infection and illness, and is the main nutrient that keeps our hair shiny and healthy, our nails strong, our skin fresh and glowing and our bones strong and healthy.
• Protein in the body is lost daily and therefore must be replenished daily through the diet. Too little protein can cause skin problems and generally give us an unhealthy and tired appearance.

Which foods are good sources of protein?

• Sources of protein include meat products (beef, fish, chicken), dairy products (cheese, milk, yogurt, and cottage cheese), eggs, tofu, lentils, and soymilk.
• Complete proteins include meat, poultry, fish, dairy, eggs, and soy (a non-animal source).  Nuts, grains, fruits, and vegetables are typically incomplete.  For this reason, it is important for vegetarians to pair non-animal products wisely in order to consume all essential amino acids in their daily diet.

No doubt about it, protein is good for you — and can even help you shed those unwanted pounds. But , it’s important to eat the right amount and the right kind of protein combined with the other macronutrients to get the long-term weight management results that you want.

Here are 10 terrific sources of lean protein:

1. Fish
2. Seafood
3. Skinless, white-meat poultry
4. Lean beef (including tenderloin, sirloin, eye of round)
5. Skim or low-fat milk
6. Skim or low-fat yogurt
7. Fat-free or low-fat cheese
8. Eggs
9. Lean pork (tenderloin)
10. Beans

A wide variety of foods — from meat, fish, and dairy to beans, whole grains, nuts, eggs, and vegetables  – contain protein. A meat-eater can easily get all the protein he or she needs.

1. Meat is one of the leading sources of protein in the American diet. Some meat is also loaded with saturated fat, which is unhealthy. The healthiest choice is lean meat low in saturated fat. 
2. Fish is an excellent source of protein and the oils contained in fish help protect against heart disease.
3. Eggs are also abundant in protein, although they also contain dietary cholesterol — up to 185 mg for a large egg. 
4. Plants such as beans and nuts are a particularly wise choice for protein since so many Americans fall short on fiber. Both beans and nuts are rich in fiber and plant-based phytochemicals that may help lower heart disease and cancer risk.

Different Types of Protein to Have in your Diet

Meat
Traditionally, meat has been one of the strongest sources of protein for the human diet. Meats of all types contain protein, and the exact amount of protein varies according to the type of animal and the cut of the meat itself. Generally, meats that are lower in fat contain more protein, although the size and preparation method for the meat is an important determining factor as well. When including meat in your diet as a protein source, remember that some types of meat are more healthy than others. Red meat is higher in fat than chicken or other types of meat.

Chicken
Like beef, the fat content of fowl can vary dramatically.  Cuts such as the thigh can contain quite a bit of fat while a skinless chicken breast may be essentially fat free.  The fatty acid profile is similar to meat meaning that, while there is some saturated fat, the majority of the fat is actually monounsaturated with a small amount of polyunsaturated present.

Fish
Fish is an excellent source of protein. Like meat, the amount of protein in any serving of fish depends not only on the part of the fish that you’re eating, but also on the type of fish. It provides a wide mixture of other health benefits and nutrients as well, making it an excellent addition to any diet.

Nuts
For people who prefer not to eat meat or who are looking for an additional source of protein in their diet, nuts are rich in protein. A single serving of nuts generally contains less protein than a serving of meat or fish, but this is nonetheless a great way to provide your body systems the protein source that they need in order to remain strong. However, many nuts are high in different types of fat, and the total quantity of nuts that you eat should generally remain low.

Milk, Cheese, and Yogurt
Not only are dairy foods — like milk, cheese, and yogurt — excellent sources of protein but they also contain valuable calcium, and many are fortified with vitamin D. Choose skim or low fat dairy to keep bones and teeth strong and prevent osteoporosis

Beans
Beans are well-known for being high in fiber, but did you know they are also high in protein? Beans are a wonderful source of protein, ranging from 10-18 grams per cup cooked, depending on the type. They’re also versatile and economical. Dried beans are very inexpensive and can be incorporated into a variety to dishes. Diets that include beans may reduce your risk of heart disease and certain cancers. Another bean bonus: A recent study found that people who eat beans weighed on average 7 pounds less and had smaller waists than those who didn’t eat beans. To reduce some unpleasant side effects, rinse beans in water to reduce their gas-producing effect.

Soybeans
Soybeans are the only vegetables that are a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine of the essential amino acids–amino acids that our bodies can not make and must be obtained from food. In fact, soybeans produce more than two times as much protein per acre of land than any other crop of vegetable or grain. Soybeans are used in a multitude of foods, including soy milk, tofu, tempeh (fermented soy foods varies, ranging from about 25 grams for a ½-cup serving of TVP to 4 grams for a 2 Tbsp. serving of miso paste.

Quinoa
Another surprising source of high-quality protein is quinoa. Quinoa, a seed that’s commonly thought of as a grain, was originally cultivated by the Incas in South America but is gaining popularity worldwide. A quarter-cup of cooked quinoa provides 5 grams of protein. It is especially rich in the amino acid lysine, which is important for tissue growth and repair. Quinoa works well in soups and salads and can easily serve as a substitute for rice in most recipes

What is protein deficiency?

• Most Americans (including vegetarians) consume more than enough protein on a daily basis. Therefore, protein deficiency is not a huge concern in the United States.  It can be found in people on restrictive diets and in the elderly population, who are more likely to have poor diets.
• In countries with a high rate of malnourished children, protein deficiency is more common.  Without prevention, a protein deficient child can develop a condition known as Kwashiorkor.  The symptoms of this disorder include a protruding stomach, edema, thin hair, overall weight loss, slowed growth, and discolored hair & skin.  Kwashiorkor, if left untreated, can cause stunted growth, mental impairments, and death.

• Do you every say the phrase “That’s so gay”? Most people take offence to this saying. The people saying these harmful phrases may not even notice that they are saying them, let alone offending those in the LGBTQ community.
•  One other phrase that may make people upset is “That’s retarded”. When “retard” and “retarded” are used as synonyms for “dumb” or “stupid” by people without disabilities, it only reinforces painful stereotypes of people with intellectual disabilities being less valued members of humanity

What you meant to say…

“That is gay” or “You’re gay”

What you meant: That the person you are referring to is stupid
How that hurts: This may offend people in the LBGTQ community. People who are LBGTQ are offended by this because they assume you judge them for their sexual preference

 ”She is such a whore/slut”

What you meant: That the person has had many sexual partners. 
How that hurts: This hurts someone else’s reputation. You may hear rumors about a person but that does not give you the right to spread them and ruin someone’s reputation.

 ”What a fag”

What you meant: That the person you are referring to is gay or queer.
How that hurts: This may offend people in the LBGTQ community. People who are LBGTQ are offended by this because they assume you judge them for their sexual preference

“What a loser” or “What a nerd”

 What you meant: That the person you are talking about has no friends and no one likes him or her.
How that hurts: Everyone is different. When people are called losers or nerds it is most likely because  they are different.  Being different isn’t always a bad thing either.

 “That is retarded” or “You are retarded”

What you meant: This implies that something or someone is stupid.
How that hurts: This is hurtful because the term “retard” or “retarded” comes from the term mentally retarded. The people who have these disabilities cant help it and we should not use this term or slang to make fun  of  other people.

 “GDI”

What you meant: That this person is not “cool” because he or she is not Greek.
How that hurts: Not everyone chooses to be in a sorority or fraternity for a large variety of reasons. Such as money, religion, or simply personal preference. This does not make them any different from someone who is Greek.

“He/She is slow”

What you meant: This is implying that someone is dumb or mentally retarded.
How that hurts: This is hurtful  people who have cognitive disabilities and we should not use this term or slang to make fun  of  other people.

“Cripple”

What you meant: That the person is injured, slow, or a variety of other things
How that hurts: This is hurtful  people who have physical disabilities. We should not use this term or slang to make fun  of  other people who have injuries or disabilities.

Factors that Influence Willingness to Stop Bullying

• Situational ambiguity. In ambiguous situations, people are much less likely to offer assistance than in situations involv­ing a clear-cut emergency
• Perceived cost. The likelihood of helping increases as the perceived cost to ourselves declines. We are more likely to lend our class notes to someone whom we believe will return them than to a person who doesn’t appear trustworthy.
• Diffusion of responsibility. The presence of others may diffuse the sense of individual responsibility. It follows that if you suddenly felt faint and were about to pass out on the street, you would be more likely to receive help if there are only a few passers-by present than if the street is crowded with pedestrians.
• Similarity. People are more willing to help others whom they perceive to be similar to themselves—people who share a common background and beliefs.
• Gender. Despite changes in traditional gender roles, women in need are more likely than men in need to receive assistance from strangers
• Attributions of the cause of need. People are much more likely to help others they judge to be innocent victims than those they believe have brought their problems on themselves
• Social norms. People act as they assume they are expected to act. The social norm of “doing your part” in helping a worthy cause places a demand on people to help, especially in situations where their behavior is observed by others

How to STOP it:  Whether the Bully is a friend or foe there are many ways you can help.

• What you can do:  If your friends are using these insulting words challenge them to be more creative and use different words to describe a person. Tell them if they use the words “gay” or “retarded” you’re not going to take part in the conversation. If your friends are bullying someone socially you should stop them. Let them know that if they have a problem with someone they should take care of it one on one with that person.
• What they can do: If you or someone you know is being bullied refer them to the Counseling center or the Women’s Resource Center. Be there for the person being bullied and lend them an ear. Sometimes just listening and letting people talk makes all the difference.

Bystander Intervention:

• What it is: Bullying rarely occurs in the absence of bystanders. Most bystanders or people who are “watching” someone be bullied never do anything to stop it. Why? Because they fear getting caught in the middle, or retaliation at a later time. May be they think they are making the situation worse, they also blame the victim, or they believe that telling an adult is “tattling”, and  some  fear they feel like they are benefiting in some way from the victimization of the student being bullied. Most simply just think “It’s none of my business”. By implementing bystander interventions bullying stops within 10 seconds more than half of the time.
• How it works: Students should recognize instances of bullying and distinguish between tattling and reporting. You should never blame the victim or think that “they deserve” what is happening to them. Students should put themselves in their shoes. As a bystander you should discourage the bully, defend the victim or redirect the situation away from bullying. Other ways to intervene is to get help, or report the bullying to an advisor or administrator.

Outcomes of Bullying:

• The Victims:  There are many results of bullying. At first victims may experience immediate mental or physical health related consequences. The victim can have anxiety, low self-esteem, headaches, stomach aches, loss of appetite, or general tension. If the bullying continues such disorders can develop such as depression, sever anxiety, panic disorder and the cause of disease and or infection.  Socially some victims may have few friends or none at all. Due to high anxiety levels it is hard for them to make friends. Some people see the victim being bullied and therefore decide not to be friends with them in fear that they will be bullied as well. Victims of bullying can become violent and even suicidal.
• The Bullies: There can be short- term and long-term effects that bullies face. Bullies are more likely to get involved in harmful activities; they also may steal or vandalize property, start or join physical fights, skip school, carry a weapon, or take part in the use of drugs or alcohol. Bullies, most of the time, do not “outgrow” their ways.  When they get older, their aggressive behavior continues into adulthood. This can lead to sexual and racial harassment, child abuse, domestic abuse, and much more. Because of this their children will most likely grow up to be a bully too.

If you are someone you know is being bullied, help on campus is available through the Women’s Resource center at 205-348-5282 and the Counseling Center at (205) 348-3863.

How often does the sun touch your skin?

• Sun exposure occurs when your skin and hair has been exposed to the bare elements of the sun’s rays. It may not seem like any damage is occurring but the sun’s rays are very damaging to your skin, even when the sun is not shining.
• The sun’s rays are most damaging between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., but anytime in the sun exposes you to damaging rays.
• The head, face and eyes are often the most exposed throughout the day.
• UVB rays cannot penetrate beyond the superficial skin layers. It is responsible for delayed tanning and burning. It enhances skin aging and skin cancer. Most solar UVB is filtered by the atmosphere.
• UVA rays penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin and are responsible for the immediate tan. It also contributes to skin aging and wrinkling. Recent studies have shown that it also contributes to skin cancers.

 What one bad burn can do to the health of your skin

• The sun can burn the top layer of your skin and too much sun can damage even the lower layers.
• Together they can cause sunburn, make skin look older and leathery looking, as well as cause more serious problems like skin cancer.
• The severity of the sunburn is, you may have red areas of skin, pain, blisters, fever, and chills.
• As your skin heals, it may become itchy, and layers of dead skin cells may peel off.
• After you get a sunburn, your skin is extremely sensitive so you should take extra precautions when exposed to the sun for the next several weeks after a burn.
• Sunburn at any age, whether serious or mild, can cause permanent and irreversible skin damage that can lay the groundwork for skin cancer later in life.

 Since one bad burn can increase your chances of developing melanoma, here are additional risk factors for melanoma:

• Light skin color , light hair, and light eye colors. Fair skin that burns or freckles easier than in people with dark skin. Fair skin tones have less protection from damaging UV rays than darker skin tones. Darkly pigmented skin lowers, but does not eliminate, your risk of melanoma.
• Family history of melanoma
• Personal history of melanoma
• Presence of moles and freckles on the face 
• History of severe sunburn occurrences in your lifetime. Every time you burn your skin, you increase your risk of developing melanoma and other skin cancers. This is especially true of sunburns at a young age. Just one blistering sunburn can double your chances of developing melanoma later in life.
• A mole (the medical name is nevus) is a benign (not cancer) skin tumor. Certain types of moles increase a person’s chance of getting melanoma. The chance of any single mole turning into cancer is very low. But a person who has many abnormal moles is more likely to develop melanoma

 Myth Busters

Here are some common myths about sunscreen and sun safety that we want to de-bunk!

“Wearing sunscreen can cause vitamin D deficiency”
There is some controversy regarding this issue, but few dermatologists believe (and no studies have shown) that sunscreens cause vitamin D deficiency. Also, vitamin D is available in dietary supplements and foods such as salmon and eggs, as well as enriched milk and orange juice.

“If it’s cold or cloudy outside, you don’t need sunscreen”
This is not true. Up to 40 percent of the sun’s ultraviolet radiation reaches the earth on a completely cloudy day. This misconception often leads to the most serious sunburns, because people spend all day outdoors with no protection from the sun.

“Eighty percent of your sun exposure comes as a child, so it’s too late to do anything.”
It appears that this universally promoted idea was based largely on a misinterpretation. A recent multi-center study showed that we get less than 25 percent of our total sun exposure by age 18. In fact, it is men over the age of 40 who spend the most time outdoors, and get the highest annual doses of UV rays. And since adult Americans are living longer and spending more leisure time outdoors, preventing ongoing skin damage will continue to be an important part of a healthy lifestyle.

“Sunscreen causes cancer”
No—it prevents it. Despite findings that suggest some sunscreen ingredients spurred cancer growth in lab animals, sunscreens are safe, “based on critical analyses of the animal study, data in humans and all the evidence we have,” says Henry W. Lim, M.D., chairman of the department of dermatology at Henry Ford Hospital.

“Natural sunscreens are truly free of chemicals”
Sunscreens with physical blockers—like zinc oxide—are generally thought of as natural because they come from minerals; those made with avobenzone are officially classified as “chemical.” The truth: Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are put through a chemical process before they end up in the bottle, so they aren’t totally natural, either.

“My medications don’t really affect my vulnerability to the sun, they are just trying to scare me”
Even if you wear sunscreen, certain antibiotics for treating acne and urinary tract infections, as well as isotretinoin (aka Accutane), some blood pressure medications and sulfur creams can all leave you fried. That’s because some drugs break into tiny particles when they penetrate skin or enter the bloodstream; these can react with UV rays and cause a burn.

 The ABCs of SPF

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor.  SPF is determined by a mathematical equation which examines the amount of light needed to induce redness in sunscreen protected skin, divided by the amount of life in unprotected skin is the SPF

How do these numbers affect me?  Sunscreen that is SPF 15 will delay the onset of a sunburn in a person who would otherwise burning in 10 minutes to burn in 150 minutes.  This allows the person to be out in the sun protected for 15 times longer than they could otherwise.

Are the HIGH SPFs better?  While no sunscreen offers 100% protection from UVA and UVB rays, higher SPF sunscreens may protect better against long-term skin damage and other exposure-related skin cancers. 

Waterproof, is it worth it?  Experts recommend using water-resistant sunscreen when possible and applying it approximately one hour prior to going outdoors.

What type of sunscreen is best for me?  It depends.  I know, sorry I couldn’t be more specific.  It depends on what you are anticipating doing—are you playing sports? Swimming? Wearing sun-protective clothing?  Lotions and moisturizers that already contain SPF are great to use for everyday activity, but if you are going to spend a lot of time outdoors, you will need beachwear-type sunscreen. 

How much should I use?  In order to get the full SPF from your sunscreen you should apply approximately 1 oz, a full shot glass, of sunscreen.  Typically, the average person applies only a quarter of that!

Sun Safety Habits to Hone

• Make sure you use sunscreen with the appropriate SPF( 15 or 30). It should also offer full spectrum protection to shield from UVA and UVB rays.
• You should try to stay out of the sun when it’s at its hottest, from about 10am until 4pm. If you have to be outside during those times, then stay in the shade
• Apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of your body 30 minutes before sun exposure. Also reapply your sunscreen every two hours or more if you have been in the water.
• Wear sunglasses with UV protections. Sunglass reduce the risk of cataracts they also protect the tender skin around your eyes from sun exposure.  Not just a fashion accessory, sunglasses protect your eyes from UV radiation, a cause of cataracts.
• Select cosmetic products that offer UV protection.
• Wear a hat with a wide brim to cover to shade the face, ears, and neck.
• Check your medications! Some medications make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
• Wear lip protectors with SPF of at least 15!
• If you get in the water or go on the beach make sure to regularly reapply sunscreen. UV rays reflect off water and sand, increasing the intensity of UV radiation.
• Find sun-protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses that you like to wear.
• Avoid midday sun – Take walks in the early morning or late afternoon..
• Avoid tanning beds and sunlamps

For more information, check out skincancer.org

• Talk Smart Sex First.  Have Smart Sex Later.  Communicate with your partner about what  activities you are comfortable with participating in and what you aren’t comfortable with or
• 2 is better than 1.  Choose two methods of protection that you are comfortable with such as a condom and the pill.  Make sure you pick one type of method which ensures STI and STD protection. 
• No means NO.  The absence of no does not mean or imply yes.
• Be prepared for a sex emergency,  for example if you plan on using condoms, make sure that you carry two in case one breaks or is put on inside out.
• Make sexual health a priority, regularly see a doctor, get regular checks such as pap smears to track any potential changes.
• Know yourself. Know your status.  Get tested every year regardless of  your sexual activity or changes in partners.  Having a routine of being checked is important to knowing your baseline as well as being about to share your status with potential new partners
• Be sure to ask your healthcare provider to test you for STD.  They will not test you for it without your request!  Most insurance companies cover this at low cost at least once a year!

 Safer Sex Tips

Anal, vaginal, or oral sex

• Talk sex first– Communication is key to make sure you both are on the same page.
• The mighty Condom– always use a condom to protect yourself from pregnancy and STDs. 
• Lubricated condoms rule- For intercourse, always pick a lubricated condom or use a water-based lubricant
• Monogamy is cool- A single partner drastically decreases your risk of getting an STI. Remember, when you sleep with a person, you’re indirectly sleeping with everyone they’ve slept with. Stay monogamous, stay safe.

Condoms

• Choose condoms made of latex or polyurethane (plastic). Both are highly  effective in preventing STDs, HIV and pregnancy.
• Avoid using animal skin or natural condoms, which prevent pregnancy but aren’t as effective in preventing all STDs, including HIV.
• Female condoms, if used correctly, are also protective against STDs and pregnancy.
• Condoms are 98% effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly..
• Condoms do expire so check the date for maximum effectiveness.
• Do not store condoms in a very hot location.
• If the condom is ripped or looks dry, brittle,  stiff, or sticky, it should not be used.
• If you keep a condom in your purse or wallet, replace it regularly.
• If you’re using a pre-lubricated condom, use water based lubricants.

CHLAMYDIA

What is it: Chlamydia is a STI that can cause painful and permanent damage to the pelvic and sex organs. Chlamydia can make women and possibly men unable to have children. It is one of the most common STDs in the United States.

How does it spread: Chlamydia is spread from person to person during vaginal, anal, and oral sex. Each year more than 3 million women and perhaps as many men get chlamydia.

Signs & Symptoms: About 75% of women and 50% of men have no symptoms. If they appear, symptoms show up 1 to 4 weeks after having sex. Women may notice: Discharge from the vagina; burning or pain when urinating; urinating more often; bleeding between periods or after sex; cramps in the lower abdomen, sometimes with a sever or nausea. Men may notice: Watery, white drip from the penis; burning or pain when urinating; urinating more often; swollen, tender testicles.

Treatment Methods: Chlamydia can be easily treated and cured with antibiotics. HIV-positive persons with chlamydia receive the same treatment as those who are HIV negative

GONORRHEA

What is it: Gonorrhea is a STI  commonly referred to as GC, the clap, the drip, or a dose. It cause permanent damage to the pelvic and sex organs, which make both men and women unable to have children. Gonorrhea may also cause pain and swelling in the knees or other joints, small red blisters on the skin, and heart problems.

How does it spread: It’s spread from person to person during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

Signs & Symptoms: Women may notice: Yellow or gray discharge from the vagina, burning or pain when urinating, urinating more often, bleeding between periods or after sex, heavier and more painful periods, cramps or pain in lower abdomen (belly) sometimes with fever and nausea. Men may notice: Yellow or greenish drip from penis, burning or pain when urinating, urinating more often, swollen and/or tender testicles. Both men and women may have: A sore or red throat caused by gonorrhea in the throat from anal sex, rectal pain and blood or pus in bowel movements caused by gonorrhea in the rectum from anal sex.

Treatment Methods: If you have gonorrhea, your provider will give you antibiotic pills or a single shot.  Your partner should be informed so that they receive treatment, and you should ask your physician how long you should abstain from sex.

HERPES

What is it: Herpes is a STI that is caused by a herpes simplex virus (HSV). Oral herpes causes cold sores around the mouth or face. Genital herpes affects the genitals, buttocks or anal area.

How does it spread: Herpes is spread through skin-to-skin contact with the virus. The virus can be spread with or without a sore being present

Signs & Symptoms: Many people get herpes and don’t know it. Others get small, sometimes painful sores on or around the mouth (cold sores) or the genitals. The sores “weep” after they form. They develop scabs, heal, and go away after 2-3 weeks. Sores can occur 2-30 days after exposure. They can also appear months or even years after exposure. People with symptoms may notice: A tingling or itching in the area just before a sore appears. Swollen glands, fever, and an overall achy feeling.

Treatment Methods: Herpes cannot be cured, but it can be treated with medication prescribed by a physician. The sores go away, but the virus doesn’t. The virus can become active again, sometimes due to stress.

HPV

What is it: HPV is a virus with over 100 different types. Some types of HPV cause warts on the hands, feet, and face, while others cause genital warts, noncancerous  or cancerous changes on the cervix.  Others do not show symptoms and clear up on their own. 

How does it spread: HPV is passed by skin-to-skin contact of the genitals during sex. This includes vaginal and anal sex, and even genital touching. HPV can also be passed during oral sex, but this is rare. HPV is easy to transmit because it lives both in skin cells and on the surface.  Many people can have HPV without knowing it.

 Signs & Symptoms: No symptoms: Most people with HPV don’t ever know they have it. They never have symptoms or other problems. Some people with HPV get warts. These are small, flat, or round bumps on, around, or inside the sex organs of both men and women. HPV can cause cell changes in the cervix, penis, or anus. Sometimes these cell changes lead to cancer.

 Treatment Methods: Warts often go away without treatment. Medications to eliminate warts are typically applied directly to the lesion and usually take many applications before they are successful. If medications don’t work, your doctor may suggest physically remove warts by laser removal, freezing or electrocautery.

SYPHILIS

What is it: Syphilis is a STI caused by the bacterium T. pallidum. It has often been called “the great imitator” because so many of the signs and symptoms are indistinguishable from those of other diseases

How does it spread: Syphilis is passed from person to person through direct contact with a syphilis sore. Sores occur on the external genitals, vagina, anus, or in the rectum. Sores also can occur on the lips and in the mouth. Transmission of the bacteria occurs during vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

Signs & Symptoms:  Many people do not show symptoms for years.  Primary Stage: appearance of a single sore (chancre) 10 to 90 days after infection, lasts 3-6 weeks without treatment Secondary Stage: skin rash (rough, red, or reddish brown)  & lesions, can appear as the chancre heals or several weeks after, may also have fever, swollen lymph glands, sore throat, patchy hair loss, headaches, weight loss, muscle aches & fatigue Latent Stage: no symptoms but infection remains Late Stage: develops in 15% of people not treated, disease damages internal organs including brain, nerves, eyes, heart, blood vessels, liver, bones, & joints, may have difficulty coordinating muscle movements, paralysis, numbness, gradual blindness & dementia

Treatment Methods: Syphilis is easy to cure in its early stages. A single intramuscular injection of penicillin, an antibiotic, will cure a person who has had syphilis for less than a year. Additional doses are needed to treat someone who has had syphilis for longer than a year. For people who are allergic to penicillin, other antibiotics are available to treat syphilis.

HIV

What is it: HIV stands for: Human Immunodeficiency Virus. HIV is a virus. The human immune system usually finds and kills viruses fairly quickly, but HIV attacks the immune system itself – the very thing that would normally get rid of a virus.

How does it spread: HIV is spread by sexual intercourse with an infected person, Contact with a person’s blood, sharing of needles, or from mother to child.

Signs & Symptoms: Some people experience a flu-like illness, develop a rash, or get swollen glands for a brief period soon after they become infected with HIV. Often people who are infected with HIV don’t have any symptoms at all. It is important to remember that a person who has HIV can pass on the virus immediately after becoming infected, even if they feel healthy. The only way to know for certain if someone is infected with HIV is for them to be tested.

Treatment Methods: There is no cure for HIV. Treatments include each of the classes of anti-HIV drugs blocks the virus in different ways. It’s best to combine at least three drugs from two different classes to avoid creating strains of HIV that are immune to single drugs.

TRICHOMONIASIS

What is it: Trichomonaisis (or Trich) is caused by a protozoan (a microscopic parasite), usually found in the vagina and urethral tissues

How does it spread: It’s spread from person to person during vaginal, anal, and oral sex.

Signs & Symptoms:  Some people expierence yellow-green (sometimes frothy) vaginal discharge with odor,  discomfort during sex and when passing urine, irritation and itching in the genital area, and lower abdominal pain may occur in rare cases

Treatment Methods: Trich is cured with antibiotics.  If you don’t get treated, the infection stays in your body. Even without symptoms, it can be passed to others.  Having trichomoniasis also can increase a woman’s risk of getting HIV if she is exposed to the virus.

Contact your local health department for more information about getting tested or ask your primary care physician or GYN.  

For University of Alabama students, testing is available for all STIs at the Student Health Center, please call 205-348-2778 to set up an appointment.
There is also free testing available at the health department on Hargrove Road.

Factors that put you at a higher risk of contracting a STI:

• Unprotected sex
• Being under 25 years old–  young women are biologically susceptible to STIs
• Illicit drug use—increases risk of blood-borne diseases and increases chances of risky sexual behavior
• Serial monogamy—more likely to be tempted to stop using safe sex precautions.  Serial Monogamy is defined as the practice of having a series of relationships, one right after the other.  Because serial monogamists only date one person at a time, they many have a false sense of sexual health safety.  They can still be at risk of contracting an STD or passing an asymptomatic STD to others if they are not responsible about safer sex and STD testing.  The best thing for a serial monogamists to do it get tested between relationships and to insist that every new partner get tested at the beginning of the relationship.  Also engage in protected sex.
• Having a high risk STI partner—partners possessing risky behaviors provide strong predictors for STIs.  
• Alcohol use—may be less discriminations about whom they have sex with
• Relying solely on birth control pills— the pill does not protect against STIs and couples may be reluctant to use condoms

Which Test is Best?

BLOOD TESTS

• HIV: HIV can be tested by a blood sample test called the HIV antibody test. For this test, a sample of blood will be drawn and then sent to a lab, where specialists will look for the presence of HIV antibodies in your system. If antibodies are identified, you are considered to be HIV positive.
• Syphilis: During the initial stages of the infection, a diagnosis will be made through both a physical exam, during which time your doctor will look for chancres, as well through a fluid sample from the chancres. However, it is necessary to have chancre sores visibly present on your body in order to perform this diagnosis.
• Testing in the second stage of syphilis will involve your health care provider checking your lymph glands and for signs of a bodily rash. A blood test will also be ordered, which will look for antibodies to the syphilis bacteria. A positive diagnosis will be confirmed through a second test.
• Herpes: Herpes tests are done to find the herpes simplex virus (HSV). An HSV infection can cause small, painful sores that look like blisters on the skin or the tissue lining (mucous membranes) of the throat, nose, mouth, urethra, rectum, and vagina. A herpes infection may cause only a single outbreak of sores, but in many cases the person will have more outbreaks
  • There are two types of HSV: HSV type 1 causes cold sores, HSV type 2 causes sores in the genital area

URINE TESTS

Chlamydia and gonorrhea screening is done either through a urine test or through a swab inside the penis in men or from the cervix in women. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory. Screening is important, because if you don’t have signs or symptoms, you can be unaware that you have either infection.

CELL SAMPLE TESTS

To diagnose gonorrhea, your doctor will use a swab to take a sample of fluid from the urethra in men or from the cervix in women. The specimen will then be sent to a lab to be analyzed. You also may be given a throat or anal culture to see if the infection is in your throat or anus. There are other tests which check a urine sample for the presence of the bacteria. You may need to wait for several days for your tests to come back from the lab.

 Why getting tested doesn’t have to be scary

• It’s easy to come up with reasons to avoid getting tested for STDs. From not having the time to not having the money to wanting to protect your privacy, some people like to offer up every excuse in the book to put off STD testing or evade the process altogether. On the one hand, it’s understandable for some to be nervous about the notion of STD testing, and it’s also quite possible for people to talk themselves into believing that they somehow won’t ever be affected; but this doesn’t actually mean that it’s okay not to get tested.
• Most people, on a basic level, understand why it’s important to get tested for STDs. Naturally, if a person doesn’t know that he has an STD, then he can’t be treated for it, nor can he take the necessary steps to avoid giving it to someone else. However, despite the knowledge that STD testing is important, there are plenty of people who don’t realize that it’s okay to not only get tested, but to talk about getting tested
• There are far too many folks out there walking around with the notion that those who are infected or even might be infected with STDs are “bad people” who have actively done something wrong. Those focused on this line of thinking are more likely to avoid the STD testing process despite an underlying awareness about its importance rather than run the risk of being forced to categorize themselves as “evil, infected people”.

 What to do when you test positive

For some STD/STIs, there are several treatment options. Here are two examples:

• If you test positive for chlamydia, you will be given a prescription for an antibiotic that will cure this case of chlamydia. It is important that you follow the treatment recommended by your health care provider—completely. Always continue your medication until it is finished, even if your symptoms have gone away. You could still get chlamydia again, if exposed to someone who has it. So it’s important that your partner(s) also get tested and treated for chlamydia before resuming sexual activity.
• If you test positive for herpes, you can take medications to treat the symptoms. Medications are also available to help prevent future outbreaks and minimize their severity, as well as to lower the chances of passing the virus on to partners. About one in six adults have herpes in the U.S. and they live normal, healthy lives. You’re not alone! You can also join support groups for people with herpes to help you cope and prevent transmission to others.

 Contact your local health department for more information about getting tested or ask your primary care physician or GYN.  

For University of Alabama students, testing is available for all STIs at the Student Health Center, please call 205-348-2778 to set up an appointment.
There is also free testing available at the health department on Hargrove Road.

Method

How it Works

Success Rate

Why it’s awesome

Why it’s not

How to get it

Abstinence

Not having sex (oral, anal or vaginal) and not participating in any activity that puts you or your partner in contact with each others’ bodily fluids (like semen, vaginal fluids, or blood).

Abstinence offers 100% protection against pregnancy, and STDs, assuming no sexual content of any kind (including genital touching).

It is the only 100% effective way to avoid pregnancy and STDs. And it’s more common than you’d think– half of high school students have never had sex.

There isn’t one. 70% of teens who have had sex wish they had waited.

Easy. Do nothing at all.

Condoms

A condom is a barrier method of protection made of latex (rubber) or polyurethane. It covers the penis and collects semen and other fluids, preventing them from entering a woman’s vagina.

With typical use, 15 women in 100 (15%) become pregnant in one year. With perfect use, 2 women in 100 (2%) will become pregnant in one year.

When used correctly and consistently from beginning to end, condoms are the only method that protects against both pregnancy and STDs, including HIV.

Condoms can leak or break if not put on or taken off correctly or if the wrong size. Oil-based lubricants (like Vaseline or massage oil) should not be used because these kinds of lubricants can cause condoms to break during sex.

At drugstores and supermarkets; costs 35¢ to $2 each. They are often free at family planning or STD clinics

The Pill

A daily contraceptive pill for women that should be taken at the same time each day. It contains either a combination of the hormones estrogen and progestin or progestin only. These pills work in several ways to protect a woman from becoming pregnant.

With typical use, 8 women in 100 (8%) become pregnant in one year. With perfect use, less than one woman in 100 (less than 1%) will become pregnant in one year.

If taken correctly, the pill provides non-stop protection from pregnancy; it can make a woman’s periods more regular, reduce cramps, and shorten or lighten a woman’s period.

Offers no protection against STDs including HIV. Some women have nausea, headaches and changes in their moods. If you miss 2 or more daily pills during a cycle you should either abstain from sex or use a back-up method of contraception (like a condom). Each type of pill is different, so check with your doctor to learn more.

Through a prescription from a health care provider; the cost is about $15 to $50 a month depending on the pill brand, plus the cost of the office visit

The Shot—
Depo Provera

A shot for women that prevents pregnancy. The shot contains the hormone progestin and must be given every 3 months.

With typical use, 3 women in 100 (3%) become pregnant in one year. With perfect use, less than one woman in 100 (less than 1%) will become pregnant in one year.

Once a woman gets the shot, she doesn’t have to think about birth control for another 3 months.

Offers no protection against STDs including HIV. Some women have weight gain and irregular periods. This shot can cause bone loss, which is often reversible after a woman stops using the shot.

Requires a visit to your health care provider every 3 months to get the shot; the cost is about $35 to $75 per shot, plus the cost of the office visit.

Diaphragm

A diaphragm is a dome-shaped silicone or latex cup with a flexible rim. A woman uses spermicide to coat the inside and outer-edge, then she inserts it to the back of her vagina so that is covers the cervix where it blocks sperm.

With typical use, 16 women out of 100 (16%) will become pregnant in one year. With perfect use, 6 women out of 100 (6%) will become pregnant in one year.

It can be put in place up to six hours before sex and can stay there for up to 24 hours (though fresh spermicide should be applied each time you have sex)

Won’t effectively protect against most STDs including HIV, and can increase the risk of urinary tract infections & toxic shock syndrome. Can be messy (from the spermicide) and clumsy to use. It needs to stay in place for 6 hours after sex and be washed thoroughly with soap and water.

Through a prescription from a health care provider; the cost is about $15 to $75 plus the cost of spermicide and the exam and fitting for the diaphragm.

Cervical Cap

A cervical cap is a silicone sailor hat-shaped device. A woman uses spermicide to coat the inside of the cap, then she inserts it into the back of her vagina so that is covers the cervix where it blocks sperm.

With typical use, 14 women in 100 (14%) will become pregnant in one year. With perfect use, 9 in 100 (9%) women will become pregnant in one year.

It can be put in place up to 6 hours before sex and can stay there for up to 48 hours (and unlike the diaphragm) additional spermicide is not needed (if you want to have sex more than once).

Won’t effectively protect against most STDs including HIV and can increase the risk of urinary tract infections and toxic shock syndrome. It only comes in 4 sizes so it may not be an option for everyone. Also, it needs to stay in place for 6 hours after having sex and then needs to be washed thoroughly with soap and water.

through a prescription from a health care provider; the cost is about $15 to $75 plus the cost of spermicide and an exam.

The Patch

A woman applies a small adhesive patch to her butt, upper arm, or lower abdomen. The patch contains a combination of the hormones estrogen and progestin. The patch is changed once a week for 3 weeks, followed by one week with no patch.

With typical use, 8 women in 100 (8%) become pregnant in one year. With perfect use, less than one woman in 100 (less than 1%) will become pregnant in one year.

If used correctly, the patch provides non-stop protection from pregnancy; it can make a woman’s periods more regular, reduce cramps, and shorten or lighten a woman’s period. It only has to be changed once a week.

Offers no protection against STDs including HIV. Some women have skin reactions, nausea, headaches and breast discomfort. If the patch is removed for more than a day, or a woman is late starting a new patch, she should either not have sex or use a back-up method of contraception (like a condom) until she has used a new patch for 7 days.

through a prescription from a health care provider; the cost runs $15 to $50 a month, plus the cost of the visit to a health care provider. Whether you need parental consent for a prescription depends on your state, find more here.

The Ring

A woman places a soft, flexible ring in the vagina for three weeks, followed by a ring-free week. The ring contains a combination of the hormones estrogen and progestin.

With typical use, 8 women in 100 (8%) become pregnant in one year. With perfect use, less than one woman in 100 (less than 1%) will become pregnant in one year.

If used correctly, the ring provides non-stop protection from pregnancy; it can make a woman’s periods more regular, reduce cramps, and shorten or lighten a woman’s period. It only has to be changed once a month.

Offers no protection against STDs including HIV. Some women have vaginal discomfort, nausea, headaches and breast tenderness. If a woman misses 3 or more hours during a cycle, she should either not have sex or use a back-up method of contraception (such as a condom) until she has used a new ring for 7 days.

Through a prescription from a health care provider; the cost runs $15 to $50 a month, plus the cost of the visit to a health care provider. Whether you need parental consent for a prescription depends on your state, find more here.

IUD

A small device that contains copper or the hormone progestin that is inserted by a health care provider into a woman’s uterus.

Using an IUD, less than 1 woman in 100 (1%) will become pregnant in a year.

It provides effective pregnancy protection and lasts a long time—a copper IUD can stay in place for up to twelve years, and a progestin IUD lasts 5 years.

Doesn’t protect against STDs including HIV. Some women have spotting between periods, heavier periods, and increased cramping.

Requires a visit to a health care provider; cost is about $175 to $650 for insertion and removal costs about $100.

Implant

A small rod is inserted under the skin of a woman’s upper arm by a health care provider. This rod releases the hormone progestin.

Less than one woman in 1,000 becomes pregnant in one year.

It protects against pregnancy for up to 3 years–without having to do a thing. It can shorten or lighten a woman’s period and reduce cramps.

Doesn’t protect against STDs including HIV; may cause irregular periods, nausea, headaches, and weight gain. Some women may be able to see the rod under the skin and rarely can get a skin infection at the insertion site. Plus, having the rod removed can be a hassle.

Requires a visit to a health care provider; the cost for insertion is usually about $400-$800 (which is less than the overall cost of 3 years of birth control pills).

Withdrawal

The man withdraws his penis from the vagina before ejaculation.

With typical use, 27 women in 100 (27%) become pregnant in one year. With perfect use 4 women in 100 (4%) will become pregnant in one year.

It’s better than not using any protection, but still isn’t a very effective method of birth control.

Doesn’t protect against STDs including HIV. Because sperm can live in pre-ejaculate (pre-cum), even if a man withdraws early, there is a chance of getting pregnant. Also, it may be a stressful method to rely on–women have to rely on men to get it right; and men have to remember to withdraw prior to ejaculation.

You just do it.

Emergency Contraceptive

It is not a regular method of birth control, but emergency contraception can be used up to five days after unprotected sex, or if your birth control method failed (for example a condom broke). The sooner it’s started the better it works.

If taken within 3 days of unprotected sex, it reduces your chance of getting pregnant by 89%. It is more effective the sooner it is taken. 

It can reduce the chance that a woman will get pregnant if she has unprotected sex or if another method of protection failed. .

Doesn’t protect against STDs including HIV. May cause nausea. If a woman does not get her period within 3 weeks, she should take a pregnancy test.

If you are 17 or older, you can buy emergency contraception at most drugstores or family planning clinics; costs $10 to $70.

Fertility Awareness

When a woman keeps track of her menstrual cycle and has unprotected sex only during the “safe” (or infertile) days, when it is less likely that she will get pregnant.

With typical use, between 12 and 25 women in 100 (12 to 25%) will become pregnant in one year, depending on the method. With perfect use, between 2 and 9 women out of 100 (2 to 9%) will become pregnant in one year.

It’s free and there are no devices to deal with. There are no side effects, except having to go without sex or use a barrier method for several days before and after ovulation (when it is possible for a woman to get pregnant).

Doesn’t protect against STDs including HIV. Predicting when a woman will ovulate is not easy, and sperm can live inside a woman’s body for days. Women have to keep careful track of their vaginal mucus, menstrual cycle, and/or body temperature beginning several months before they can start relying on this method. Because it’s difficult to accurately track fertility patterns, there are a lot of accidental pregnancies

Women will need good instruction–a class or health care provider–and several months of charting before they begin to rely on this method.

For more information check out www.itsyoursexlife.com

For University of Alabama students, if you have any questions about contraceptives and pregnancy prevention, please contact the Health Educator in the Student Health Center at 205-348-3878.