Category: Brandpoint Lifestyle

2024-06-14T08:19:00

(BPT) – As a homeowner, you may have heard about incentives to tackle climate change that are available as a result of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), a large piece of legislation that was passed last year. Many of its opportunities focus directly on your personal slice of the American dream — your home. The EPA’s ENERGY STAR program just launched a new tool that can help you find all of the savings available to you.

The idea behind these incentives is to lower this country’s carbon emissions by helping homeowners make essential, energy saving upgrades to their homes, particularly for the biggest energy users, like your heating and cooling system and water heater. Many households struggle to afford these energy-efficient home upgrades, so the IRA allocated funding for this effort, a portion of which goes toward rebates and tax credits for homeowners. For many middle- and lower-income families, this means the chance to save big on essential upgrades for your home.

To help homeowners take advantage of these opportunities, ENERGY STAR is rolling out a new home improvement savings web tool that addresses the largest barriers Americans face when it comes to making these upgrades — cost and navigating the complexity of these projects. This handy online tool is a one-stop shop that allows you to pop in your ZIP code and find information on incentives that are available to you. Right now, it features generous tax credits and utility rebates that can help you substantially lower costs on qualifying products. Later, it will include information on state energy efficiency rebates for low-income communities as these state programs begin to come online — starting in 2024.

What projects qualify? These incentives cover projects that tackle your home’s biggest energy users, such as your heating and cooling system, water heater, insulation, and more. These areas of your home are not only the biggest energy users, they’re essential systems that are also expensive to upgrade. Almost half of your energy bill goes toward heating and cooling your home — which, for the average American household, is almost $900 a year. Similarly, your water heater is the second biggest energy user in your home. Finding ways to make these systems more efficient, particularly by upgrading to heat pump technology, can help you live comfortably while also drastically reducing your energy bills.

Why the focus on heat pump technology? Heat pump technology has been around for decades, but there have been some exciting technology improvements, particularly for HVAC and water heating products, that provide unmatched energy savings.

• Heat Pump HVAC is essentially an air conditioner and a heater all in one. Yes, despite their name, heat pumps also cool the air in your home. And new heat pumps are extremely efficient. ENERGY STAR-certified heat pump HVAC is so efficient it can deliver up to three times more heat energy to a home than the electrical energy it consumes. This is possible because a heat pump moves heat rather than converting it from a fuel, as combustion heating systems do. In the summer, it cools your home in the same way. Replacing your older central AC with an ENERGY STAR certified heat pump could save you nearly $600 over the life of the product, on cooling costs alone.
• Heat Pump Water Heaters that have been ENERGY STAR certified use about one quarter of the energy of a standard water heater and can save a household of four approximately $550 per year and more than $5,600 over its lifetime on electric bills. Similar to heat pump HVAC, it moves heat from the surrounding air rather than creating it — which heats your water for a fraction of the energy.

What savings are available? There are numerous savings opportunities that homeowners can take advantage of to make essential energy-saving upgrades more affordable — and you can learn about all that apply to you using the home savings tool.

• Federal tax credits: Tax credits provide annual discounts of 30% of project costs, up to $3,200, for products such as heat pump HVAC, heat pump water heaters, windows, and insulation.
• State rebates: Starting in May 2024, state rebate programs will offer incentives targeted to low- to moderate-income households. These rebates will vary by state and are rolling out throughout 2024. New York is the first state to launch with several other states following closely behind. You can find rebates offered in New York on the home savings tool and learn the status of other state programs here.
• Utility rebates: In addition to the Inflation Reduction Act incentives, many utilities offer rebates on ENERGY STAR certified appliances and equipment.

ENERGY STAR is the government-backed symbol for energy efficiency, providing simple, credible, and unbiased information that consumers and businesses rely on to make well-informed decisions. Since 1992, ENERGY STAR and its partners helped American families and businesses avoid more than $500 billion in energy costs and achieve more than 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas reductions.

2024-06-14T08:01:00

(BPT) – Summer has arrived! If you’re lucky enough to find a pool to spend the summer by, a pool party is a must. Whether you’re taking advantage of the sunshine and hot weather during the day or enjoying a warm evening, all it takes is a little bit of planning to upgrade your poolside bash.

Set the mood

Nothing makes a party more fun than the right playlist. Whether you’re going for a retro beach vibe, throwback party tunes, or current hits to get everyone up and dancing, taking time to create the mood you want will level up the energy and fun factor.

Something to sip on

Hot summer days mean you’ll need to provide plenty of refreshing beverage options. Live like the sun’s always out by filling up your cooler with 8-packs of High Noon Hard Seltzer, made with real spirits, real juice and no added sugar. The Limited Edition High Noon Pool Pack, made with real vodka, includes fan-favorite flavors Lime and Peach, as well as limited-time flavors Kiwi and Guava, so everyone at the party can find a summery flavor they’ll love.

One fun alternative to coolers? Get a small inflatable pool, fill it with ice and beverages, then set it out for guests to enjoy. Be sure to include some water and non-alcoholic options as well to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Visit HighNoonSpirits.com and find High Noon Pool Pack near you here.

Let the games begin

Make your party even more fun with games — in and out of the pool — everyone will love. Yard games like corn hole, badminton, bocce ball and ladder toss are favorites, as is yard (or pool) pong. In the water, you can set up a game of pool volleyball or start a cannonball contest. Be sure to provide lounge chairs, extra towels and pool floats for guests to rest up on and catch some rays between games. Make sure to provide extra sunscreen!

Pick a theme

Everyone loves a theme! Parties can be even more fun if you center the festivities around a theme such as a favorite decade, popular movie/TV show, or go with a particular sport. Your theme will help inspire your music and food choices — and you could even set up an outdoor projector to watch a game or movie during the party once the sun goes down.

Above all, relax and let yourself enjoy a day under the sun. Summer always goes by too fast!

Grill it up

If you can eat it, you can probably grill it. Use your grill to cook up a variety of tasty items for your friends to enjoy. You can’t go wrong with old-school burgers and brats, but you can also use foil packets and skewers to grill up fish, veggies and fruits of all kinds.

Corn on the cob is easy (and popular, for good reason), but you can also try grilling items like pineapple or Portobello mushroom steaks to provide your guests with some unexpected and elevated options as well. Guests with specific dietary preferences and needs will especially love making build-your-own kebabs.

Have a fire pit? Offer all the fixings for making s’mores which is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and a great way to wind down the festivities.

For more summer sips inspiration, visit HighNoonSpirits.com and check out @HighNoonSunSips on Instagram.

Drinking alcohol may be harmful to your health and addictive. Please drink responsibly. If you have a problem with alcohol, please visit Responsibility.org.

2024-06-13T13:47:00

(BPT) – In the summertime across America, there’s one thing that brings us together — cheeseburgers. Sure, we all make them differently, but when it comes to their favorite topping, the choice is easy — Sargento 100% real, natural cheese. And who better than Sargento to set you up with 100% real, natural cheese slices!

Whether you’re a Smashburger supporter or a Cowboy Chili Burger enthusiast, there’s nothing more American than a beautifully crafted cheeseburger. And Sargento has all the varieties of 100% real, natural cheese slices that you need to craft your favorite cheeseburger this summer!

Check out Sargento’s America the Burgerful campaign to find your region’s favorite burger and discover how others throughout the country are grilling up their burgers this summer!

2024-06-13T12:05:00

(BPT) – In today’s world, environmental consciousness is a driving force behind consumer purchase decisions for everyday items like clothing, housewares and even tires. With sustainability on the minds of drivers — many considering EVs or hybrid vehicles to reduce their carbon footprint — Hankook Tire recently explored drivers’ preferences when shopping for tires that are also good for the planet. Here’s where the rubber meets the road when it comes to eco-friendly tires:

The Road to Sustainable Practices

According to the latest Gauge Index survey, nearly two-thirds of drivers (64%) are likely to purchase tires from a brand known for its sustainability practices. What’s more, nearly half (47%) are willing to pay a premium for tires that are sustainably made.

Generational differences also play a significant role in these preferences, and younger people are driving the demand: 71% of Gen Z respondents are more likely to purchase tires from a brand known for its sustainability practices, compared to 53% of Boomers. Additionally, 58% of Gen Z respondents, compared to 33% of Boomers, stated that it is important for the tires they purchase to be made from recycled or sustainable materials.

Materials Matter

When it comes to the materials used in their tires, 44% of drivers said it was important that their tires were made from recycled or sustainable materials. Of those, over half (58%) were Gen Z compared to 33% of Boomers. Additionally, when considering purchasing sustainable tires, durability matters. The lifespan of the tire led as the most important at 24%, followed by safety ratings (19%), and performance ratings (16%).

Embracing Repurposing

As consumers become more conscious of sustainability, there is also a growing interest in what becomes of tires at the “end of the road” — in other words, what happens when the tire needs to be replaced and how it can be repurposed. Nearly one-quarter (23%) are interested in repurposing used tires for footwear, closely followed by 17% of consumers who would like to see more tires used for garden planters.

This trend extends to educational programs as well. Schools are incorporating used tires into their gardening programs, turning them into planters for various crops. Gardens built at local schools and community centers not only repurpose tires (and keep them out of landfills) but also provide hands-on learning experiences for students. These initiatives help children learn about agriculture, sustainability, and the importance of recycling.

As consumer preferences continue to evolve, drivers are seeking out automotive suppliers that prioritize eco-friendly products and practices that align with their own values. By prioritizing sustainability initiatives, these suppliers not only contribute to a cleaner environment, but also cater to the changing needs and preferences of their customers.

2024-06-13T08:55:00

(BPT) – After 114 years, the Boy Scouts of America has changed its name. More than five years after welcoming girls, it has become Scouting America, a name that is more welcoming to anyone who wants to join. Nobody is happier about it than Bob Brady, Scoutmaster of Troop 1150 in Sparta and the Executive Vice President of Patriots’ Path Council. He said the name change is reflective of what Scouting is all about.

“The name change reflects what our Oath has always been,” said Brady. “We want everyone involved. Everyone is welcome. We’re better with you than without you.”

Brady’s own family knows a bit about that. When Brady was a kid, being a Boy Scout was at the center of his world. He had moved with his family to a new part of the country and was short on friends and activities. Joining Scouts was a pivotal turning point in his young life.

“Scouting was everything to me,” said Brady. “I earned Eagle at 15 and stayed involved. I did everything you can do in Scouting and loved every minute of it.”

Scouting didn’t just teach Brady how to pitch a tent and survive in the forest. It taught him leadership, public speaking, and the values that are central to who he is as a person. It even pointed the way to his career.

“I’m a lawyer,” he explained. “But there were no lawyers in my family. I had never even thought about becoming a lawyer until I took a law merit badge in Scouting when I was 17 years old. That merit badge changed the course of my life. I don’t know where I would be without it. Those merit badges help Scouts figure out who they are.”

Brady’s involvement in Scouting diminished over the years, primarily because of the birth of his daughters. He was a bit wistful about the fact he couldn’t share what was such an important part of his own growing-up years with his girls. At the time of their birth, Boy Scouts of America had yet to accept women into its ranks.

All of that changed in 2018, when the organization began admitting girls. Coincidentally enough, the announcement came on his daughter’s 10th birthday.

“I teared up, because I realized that I could now share the program that had meant everything to me growing up with my girls.”

Brady sprang into action right away to see how he could help. He formed a girls-only troop, 13 Scouts of which went on to achieve the highest rank in Scouting, Eagle Scout. Two of that group of 13? His own daughters.

This Father’s Day, Brady is reflective of what it all means, not just to his own family, but to Americans as a whole. It’s about raising good kids — the most important work any parent can do.

“The values we instill in kids in this program — this is exactly what we want good citizens to be,” Brady said. “If everyone went through Scouting, imagine the society we could have. It is the single most important youth program you can offer to your kids. It’s going to change their lives.”

To learn more or to find a scouting troop for your child, visit BeAScout.org. According to Bob Brady, you’ll be very glad you did.

2024-06-12T08:01:00

(BPT) – Summer is the season for spending your nights outdoors, whether by a cozy bonfire, in the backyard with a movie projector, or gathered around the porch table with family and friends. With a little forethought and some planning, your golden hour party can extend into the night and be the hit of the season. Here are five ideas for making your sunset soiree sensational.

1. Plan ahead. Summer calendars fill up fast. Get those invites out early so you can make sure your family and friends can attend. Bonus tip: Make it a weeknight! Summer is a great time to linger in the backyard during golden hour and beyond, so giving people something fabulous to do on a day they might not usually take advantage of is always a treat. By opting against a weekend night, your guests are more likely to be available.

2. Amp up the dinner party. To give your guests a more thoughtful experience, transform your outdoor dining area with a seasonal tablescape, unique lighting and even a themed menu. You can add a magical feel to the evening by draping strands of lights in the trees and along your fence. Many backyard lights are even solar-powered, so they’ll flicker on in time for golden hour and add a fairy-like glow to your gathering. And about that menu … setting up your meal as a “station” where people can serve themselves, like a salad bar, is an easy way to accommodate food allergies and preferences while still offering a variety of choices.

3. Reclaim the golden hour from mosquitos. Nothing puts a damper on an outdoor party like a swarm of mosquitos descending at golden hour, that period between day and night in which everything just seems to glow with soft light. It’s the most beautiful time of day, but it’s also a peak time for mosquito activity, which causes many people to retreat indoors. In fact, up to 40% of people have even skipped outdoor events to avoid dealing with insects¹. Adding OFF!^® Clean Feel products to your outdoor routine can help you enjoy sunset and the rest of the night longer. OFF!^® Clean Feel aerosols and pump sprays are easy to use and provide long-lasting protection for up to eight hours from mosquitoes. OFF!^® Clean Feel Gel is another fragrance-free option perfect for everyday use because it feels good on skin and will help protect you from mosquitoes.

4. Set up entertainment. If you have the space for an after-dinner activity, you can drape a sheet along your fence or house for an easy projector screen. At sundown, transform your space with comfy pillows, a projector, speakers and cables for a perfect at-home movie night.

5. Draw the evening to a close around your firepit. Everyone loves sitting around a cozy firepit on a summer night. Pre-stack your firepit with wood so all you’ll need to do is light it. Add to the fun by stocking up a tray with ingredients for s’mores (including skewers for roasting the marshmallows!), or try using a grated top for your firepit to grill peaches, watermelon or pineapple to serve with ice cream. Bonus tip: Have cozy throws or long-sleeved wraps on hand for your guests who might get chilly.

Take back the golden hour from mosquitos and enjoy these balmy evenings with family and friends. By banishing the bugs, you’ll make the most of summer!

¹ Random double-opt-in survey of 2,000 Americans conducted by OnePoll on behalf of OFF!^® Brand between July 27-28, 2023.

2024-06-11T07:01:00

(BPT) – According to the Education Data Initiative, the average cost of college in 2023 is $36,436 per year. Even if you or your parents can afford to pay the full costs, that’s still a hefty sum. Scholarships can help cover the costs of college, from tuition and books to living expenses.

From community organizations and major corporations to military branches or your school itself, make a list of which types of scholarships are most of interest to you. Here are some common types of scholarships available:

• Merit-based. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements. This includes criteria like GPA, standardized test scores or outstanding talents. Merit scholarships are designed to reward excellence, without consideration for financial need.
• Need-based. These scholarships are determined by a student’s ability to pay for their education. Low-income students may be eligible for additional grants.
• Minority scholarships. Minority scholarships support underrepresented groups in higher education. These scholarships may award money to racial and ethnic minorities, LGBTQ+ students and individuals with disabilities.
• Subject-specific. These scholarships are for students pursuing specific fields of study, such as STEM or the humanities.
• Community service. Community service scholarships recognize a student’s commitment to community service and volunteering.
• Athletic. Athletes who excel in sports like football and basketball may receive an athletic scholarship. Colleges and universities may offer them to recruit athletes for their teams.
• Creative and artistic. Students with exceptional creative talents may be eligible for these scholarships.
• International. If you’re moving to the United States for higher education, apply for international scholarships. They might be merit-based, need-based or otherwise specific to international students.
• Career-specific. Some scholarships are tailored to specific careers or industries. They may require recipients to commit to working in that field after graduation.
• Entrepreneurial. These awards support students with innovative business ideas or entrepreneurial ambitions.
• First-generation. If you’re the first in your family to attend college, you might qualify for this type of scholarship. They’re designed to bridge financial and educational gaps for first-generation students.
• Study abroad. Study abroad scholarships are for students interested in studying in foreign countries for a semester or more.
• Military. Active Duty military personnel, Veterans and their dependents may qualify for certain scholarships through the branches of the military.

From there, here are a few tips to maximize your scholarship opportunities.

1. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. This helps determine your eligibility for federal financial assistance. Even if you’re not eligible for student aid, apply anyway. Many states and scholarship programs use FAFSA information to evaluate applications.
2. Look for local opportunities. Check with your high school’s guidance counselor. Then, inquire with community organizations and local businesses.
3. Sign up for national scholarship database websites. These websites collect information on a wide range of scholarship opportunities. Take time to create a comprehensive student profile. List your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, interests and career goals. Scholarship databases will try to match you with opportunities based on this information.
4. Research scholarships at each university or college before you apply. Some schools will automatically consider you for certain scholarships, while others may require you to apply. Contact each school’s financial aid office to ask about opportunities.
5. Start early. Keep track of the application deadlines, requirements and materials for each scholarship.
6. Ask your peers, family, mentors or guidance counselors for advice. They may provide recommendations or be available to review essays.

Whether you’re just starting out on your educational journey or currently in school, check out Navy Federal Credit Union’s student loan options to help fill funding gaps or resources on college savings.

Navy Federal Credit Union is federally insured by NCUA.

2024-06-10T11:11:00

(BPT) – If your dad takes any excuse to get outside — whether he loves sprucing up the yard, grilling out or epic adventures — you can help him pursue his outdoor passions with just the right gift this Father’s Day.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Support your dad’s perfect yard obsession

For dads who find joy in the straight edges of a flawlessly trimmed lawn, this STIHL FSA 60 R battery-powered trimmer will make their weekend chores a breeze. This trimmer offers a lightweight design with a brushless motor that virtually eliminates the need for maintenance — so Dad can relax and enjoy the clean, quiet benefits of battery power. Give Dad the gift of convenience and efficiency and watch his yard transform into a well-manicured masterpiece!

Cook up the hottest gift for Dad

Dad will be sure to conquer the grill with a new instant-read meat thermometer! Whether he’s grilling BBQ for the family or burger patties for the boys, this handy gadget will help his culinary creations turn out delicious every time. With quick and accurate temperature readings, overcooking and underdone meats are a thing of the past. Help Dad become the ultimate grill master with this must-have tool.

Help Dad tackle big jobs

To accomplish big backyard tasks, your dad may need a powerful tool like a STIHL MS 162 chainsaw. This lightweight and maneuverable chainsaw features reduced exhaust emissions and an anti-vibration system, offering Dad optimal comfort. Whether he’s clearing fallen branches, prepping firewood for cozy nights by the fire or taking on ambitious DIY projects, this STIHL chainsaw is up to the task.

Help your dad keep his cool

If he’s still using that old, beat-up cooler for his outdoor adventures, encourage him to upgrade in time for the dog days of summer. Today’s cooler options are, well, really cool — including coolers on wheels, backpack coolers and coolers with Bluetooth^® capabilities — available in various sizes and price points. For the ultimate outdoor experience, you could even consider a portable car fridge that plugs into his vehicle.

Celebrate your garden-loving Dad

If you want to gift your dad the manicured look of precisely trimmed ornamental plants and carefully pruned shrubs and grasses, then STIHL has the perfect tool for you — HSA 26 battery-powered garden shears. This handheld hedge trimmer provides precise, clean cuts, a lightweight construction and impressive power to inspire his gardening goals. Gift your dad all the comfort, control and flexibility he needs to turn his yard into a plant lover’s paradise.

Show your dad that you understand what he cares about most. With these ideas, you’ll be able to find something special to delight your outdoor-loving dad this year.

Find great gift ideas and special offers for your yard-obsessed dad at StihlUSA.com.

2024-06-10T10:37:00

(BPT) – Across the U.S., higher education is in flux. This can make focusing on education and the future feel overwhelming for many students. But for DeVry University’s students, who often balance classes with careers, families and other personal obligations, successfully meeting challenges is familiar territory. This year’s graduating class, like those before them, has demonstrated and embodied the resilience fostered and supported by the institution.

“DeVry and Keller made it possible to continue my career and education simultaneously,” said Ebony Lawal, a DeVry graduate and now a graduate from the Keller School of Management’s MBA program. “The most memorable part of my journey has been the support of my adviser, who kept me going through difficult times and helped me to find a career path that matches my goals.”

On Sunday, June 9, in Rosemont, Illinois, more than 2,000 students crossed the stage during commencement ceremonies for DeVry University and its Keller Graduate School of Management in celebration of their accomplishments and ability to thrive in the face of difficulties.

“I am exceptionally proud of our graduates for reaching this significant milestone. This achievement is a testament to their hard work, determination and perseverance,” added Elise Awwad, president and CEO of DeVry University. “The challenges in today’s world are immense, but as graduates of DeVry University, they have the skills to take on those challenges and make impactful contributions to their workplaces and communities.”

Tech visionary and proud alumna emphasizes Belief in the Possible

This year’s commencement keynote speaker, Edwige A. Robinson — DeVry and Keller alum — knows the challenges and rewards of higher education. For her, education allowed her to bet on herself and open new doors. She exemplifies the grit, determination and self-belief cultivated at DeVry.

When speaking to this year’s graduates, Robinson emphasized betting on yourself. “When you think about it, a new manager or company will bet on you by just looking at your resume and hiring you. So, if a stranger can bet on you, why can’t you bet on yourself?” she pointed out.

Robinson’s educational journey began in Cote d’Ivoire, West Africa. She eventually immigrated to the U.S., learned English and quickly found a passion for technology. She is a trailblazing senior executive in strategy and innovation and is a member of the Forbes Technology Council. Robinson is passionate about mentorship, regularly sharing her insights and experience with young girls and women through several organizations and entities, including DeVry’s Women+Tech Scholars Program.

“I believe that achieving a goal, dream or aspiration begins in one’s mind, an inner work where you first envision overcoming all possible obstacles,” she explained. “And that belief inside of yourself serves as a kind of seed planting and germination for your dream to grow.”

Resiliency in action

Every commencement ceremony celebrates student achievement. But the celebration is even more profound when students overcome obstacles to achieve an education.

DeVry’s commencement ceremonies cap off a two-day Commencement Weekend. On Saturday, June 8, the university hosted DeVry Day, a career planning and alumni networking event to help graduates further prepare for what’s next. Alumni participation fosters community and shows graduates how far an education can take them.

“Education, undeniably, remains an influential force with timeless significance. Once an individual attains an educational milestone, it becomes an enduring possession,” said Awwad. “However, our commitment to our students doesn’t end at commencement. Our mission remains the same — to help learners at any stage of their journey create thriving careers in an economy transformed by technology,” she concluded.

Are you ready to discover what’s possible when you bet on yourself? Visit DeVry.edu to find out more.

2024-06-10T07:01:00

(BPT) – Taking care of your sexual and reproductive health is an important part of your overall well-being. Many people find it hard to talk about, and there are many myths about sexuality and reproduction. To clarify some of the confusion, Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, an OB-GYN professor at Yale School of Medicine, offers the following helpful tips:

Make Annual Check-Ups a Priority

Regularly prioritizing annual OB-GYN check-ups is crucial for maintaining reproductive health and overall well-being. Regular visits allow for early detection of potential issues like cervical cancer and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), which can significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of complications. Comprehensive health monitoring during these check-ups includes tracking changes in menstrual cycles, vaginal health, and hormone levels, which can indicate broader health issues. Preventive care through screenings like Pap smears, HPV testing, pelvic exams and mammograms can catch abnormalities early, thereby reducing the risk of developing serious complications.

Additionally, annual visits provide personalized guidance on your fertility planning. Your healthcare provider can help you choose the most suitable birth control method and offer advice tailored to your specific needs and lifestyle. These visits also offer an opportunity to discuss concerns about menstrual irregularities, sexual health, and wellness, ensuring you have accurate information and consistent support.

Building a strong relationship with your healthcare provider through regular visits fosters trust and communication, making it easier to discuss sensitive issues. To maximize the benefits of your visit, make a list of concerns before you go to ensure all important topics are addressed.

Be Prepared with Contraception

Regardless of your relationship status, be smart. Be prepared for sex. During your annual medical visit, ask about different birth control options so you can choose the best method for your current lifestyle and health needs.

You can get combination pills with a prescription from your medical professional or from clinics like Planned Parenthood or carafem for a wide range of birth control options like condoms, birth control pills, emergency contraception, IUD/IUCs, birth control implants, and Depo Provera shots.

The good news is the first over-the-counter (OTC) combination estrogen and progesterone oral contraceptive pill (The Pill) is currently being developed under close FDA supervision.

Be Ready for those Unexpected “Oops” Moments

It’s critical to be prepared for unexpected “oops” moments, like when the condom breaks or after unprotected sex by taking an emergency contraceptive within 72 hours of the unprotected sex. Cadence’s Morning After Pill is available over the counter 24/7 at convenience stores like 7-Eleven at half the price of the leading brand, making it more accessible and readily available the moment it’s needed.

It’s important to note that the Morning After Pill will not terminate an existing pregnancy but can prevent one from starting if taken in time. In fact, the sooner you take it the better it works. It is approved by the FDA and won’t interfere with future fertility, regular birth control, or stop a current pregnancy because it prevents pregnancy completely by stopping the egg from meeting the sperm.

So many people confuse the Morning After Pill with the Abortion Pill. Here is an easy way to remember: Morning After Pill prevents pregnancy after unprotected sex, while the abortion pill ends an existing pregnancy.

Maintaining reproductive health and wellness is essential for overall well-being. Make annual check-ups with your health provider a priority as it helps with early detection, comprehensive health monitoring, preventive care, and personalized guidance. Being prepared with effective contraception options and knowing how to handle unexpected moments with emergency contraception empowers women to take control of their reproductive health. By following these tips, women can ensure they are well informed and prepared to manage their reproductive health confidently and effectively. For more information, visit CadenceOTC.com.