If you are having sex and/or are in a relationship, it’s good to be able to communicate with and treat others in a way that is respectful and healthy and to look for the same yourself. Unhealthy relationships can be stressful, harmful to health, and even dangerous. See below for more information and resources to promote healthy relationships and positive sexual experiences. You can also talk to a provider about all of this and more at Maryland Family Planning Program clinics. Services are free or affordable and you can also use your insurance, including Medicaid, at all of the clinic locations. Insurance is not required and no one is ever turned away based on ability to pay. You can use the clinic finder search tool below to find a clinic near you.
Sex + Relationships
- Consent is about communication before and during a sexual encounter to ensure everyone involved feels engaged, comfortable and safe. You can extend or reverse your consent at any time, even during a sexual encounter. It’s okay to stop if you want to.
- Protecting yourself and others when having sex is critical. Learn
how to prevent pregnancy and prevent the spread of
STI and HIV.
Sexual or relationship violence
If you or someone you know has experienced or is experiencing sexual or relationship violence, there are resources available to help:
- Domestic Violence/Intimate Partner Violence (IPV)/Sexual Assault Service
Programs in Maryland.
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Loverisrepect.org offers information and resources on personal safety and how to best support others experiencing unsafe relationships.
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bMOREsafe from Mercy Medical Center has information on what to do if you have experienced sexual assault or rape and is also available in app form. You can receive a forensic exam at Mercy Medical Center up to 15 days after an assault.
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Find information, resources and more with the Center for Disease Control (CDC).
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Speak with trained professional online or on the phone to get support (RAINN).
