Q:  I often have safe sex using condoms and such, but the problem is I have a hard time buying them or purchasing certain kinds for my girlfriend and I.  Like she wanted me to buy KY jelly and condoms, and I couldn’t buy them.  Is it normal to be embarrassed about buying these things?  Do I have to go out and buy them, or can I do it in private?

A:  Congratulations to you and your girlfriend for communicating with each other about “safer” sex.  Yes, it is normal for people to feel embarrassed about purchasing “personal” products - some experience it more than others.  Here are some suggestions on ways that you can purchase these products in a more discrete manner:  

1.  The Campus Health Pharmacy offers a wide range of condoms and personal lubricant products.  The pharmacy has an over-the-counter price list that can be used as a checklist and given to the pharmacist.  Thus, eliminating the need to verbally ask for the products. 

2.  If you live in a UA residence hall, some of them offer vending machines with personal products (e.g. condoms, razors, etc.) for purchase.   
  
3.  The internet is another place that offers a discrete shopping environment and a wide selection of condoms and personal products.  Some companies on the web offer additional discretion by guaranteeing that your personal information is not sold to other businesses and the packages are wrapped and shipped in packaging that does not reveal the nature of the contents.