Based in British Columbia, Options for Sexual Health (OPT) is Canada's largest non-profit provider of sexual health services through clinics, advocacy, education programs, and the 1-800 SEX SENSE information and referral line.
What we do
Our Clinic Services
OPT operates over 50 sexual health clinics across BC, which are supervised by nurses, with clinical and medical support from physicians and client support from volunteers. Last year, OPT clinics helped over 39,000 clients receive non-judgmental birth control counselling and supplies, STI and PAP testing, pregnancy options counselling, and general sexual health information.
Our Education Programs
OPT offers education and professional training programs with certified sexual health educators located throughout the province. Last year, over 24,000 youth, parents, teachers, volunteers, children, and others working in school or health settings were participants in OPT's sexual health education programs, specially tailored for each audience. Some of the common topics covered include sexual decision-making and boundary-setting, becoming an askable adult, body science, and safer sex.
Additionally, OPT operates the 1-800 Sex Sense Line, a toll-free-across-BC telephone line and email service which offers sexual health information and referral Monday to Friday, 9am-9pm. Last year, the Sex Sense Line answered over 13,000 calls and emails.
Our Advocacy Program
OPT's Advocacy program is directed by our provincial Board of Governors. The most recent advocacy initiative is for comprehensive, quality school sexual health education across BC. In September of 2005, OPT and its partners created two toolkits to assist British Columbians in advocating for better sex education, and mailed 1.33 million full-colour mock "back to school" flyers to encourage them to think and act on this issue.
Mission Statement
To promote optimal sexual health for all British Columbians by supporting reproductive choice, reducing unplanned pregnancy, and providing quality education, information and clinical services.
Vision Statement
Options for Sexual Health envisions a society that celebrates healthy sexuality, its diversity of expression, and a positive sexual self-image for individuals throughout life.
