Frequently Asked Questions

Free Condoms Tennessee is a public health and information program of Planned Parenthood of Tennessee and North Mississippi (PPTNM), an affiliate of Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

PPTNM is Tennessee's largest and oldest non-profit reproductive health care agency serving Tennessee and north Mississippi.

PPTNM provides family planning counseling and patient services at our health centers throughout Tennessee, as well as community sexual health education programs and advocacy to promote evidence-based public policies to improve sexual health outcomes.

What is Free Condoms Tennessee?

Free Condoms Tennessee is a campaign designed to reduce the spread of HIV by encouraging the correct and consistent use of condoms. The program provides free condoms and other safer-sex supplies at partner sites around major cities in Tennessee and encourages condom use with acceptability, accessibility, and acceptability. Planned Parenthood of Tennessee and North Mississippi is the lead agency behind the campaign, which is funded through HIV prevention funds provided by the Tennessee Department of Health and other funding sources.

Who can get the free condoms?

Anyone who needs them.

Where can I get free condoms?

At any one of the sites found here on the Free Condoms Tennessee website. On the home page, just enter an address or zip code. The site pulls up a list of distribution sites near your location. Most distribution sites make the condoms available in a container in an accessible place, such as the front desk, entry or lobby. Take as many condoms as you need!

What if I am in MS and want condoms?

Head over to our sister site FreeCondomsMS.org

What kinds of places are free condoms sites?

Our distribution sites include the kinds of convenient places you probably visit every day. They range from barber shops, nail salons, tattoo parlors, bars, night clubs, and auto repair shops, to churches, government and social service agencies and health clinics. There are distribution sites throughout cities in Tennessee, and chances are good there’s one near your home, workplace, school or church.

How many condoms can I take?

Take as many as you think you will need. Feel free to try several different brands, types and sizes—after all, they’re free! But please be considerate and leave some for others. We restock distribution sites regularly so that condoms are always available. If your site runs out, please click the contact us link to send us a message, and we will bring more as soon as possible.

Why use condoms?

Consistent and correct use of condoms is a proven method of preventing the spread of HIV and sexually transmitted infections, as well as preventing unplanned pregnancies. All sexually active people can use condoms and other barrier methods each and every time they have sex. Choosing to use condoms shows you care about your partner and yourself—it can even and make sex feel better and last longer!

What if condoms aren’t comfortable?

If you think condoms are uncomfortable, you may have used a condom that didn’t fit or simply wasn’t the right style for you. Condoms come in several sizes, different textures and thicknesses, and even different flavors and colors. The Free Condoms Tennessee distribution sites stock a wide variety of condoms. Try many different sizes and textures… we’re confident you will find a type of condom that feels right to you and your partner.

Is there a right way or wrong way to use a condom?

Yes, we have instructional videos to show how to correctly use external (condoms that go on a penis) condoms and internal (condoms that go in a vaginal canal or anus) condoms.


What can I expect when I go to one of the places on the map to get free condoms?

Most places on the map have an unmarked bowl or fishbowl (with one of our logos) where you can get condoms without interaction. Other locations have them stored away and would need assistance by request.

What are some pros to using condoms?
  • They provide protection from pregnancy and STDs/STIs
  • Cheap and easy to find, just type in your zip code for free ones
  • No side effects, there are even latex-free condoms
  • Condoms are small, easy to carry, and disposable
My partner doesn’t like to use condoms. How can I start the conversation?

This can be a hard conversation to start, and while you know your situation best, we recommend being open and honest. Maybe get tested together and then talk about using condoms while waiting for test results! Some folks even enjoy the sensation of the different textures that condoms have so suggest trying a few different kinds to see if one works for you.

What is PrEP and is it safe?

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a daily medication people who don’t have but are at risk for HIV take to prevent HIV. PrEP is safe but some people experience side effects like diarrhea, nausea, headache, fatigue, and stomach pain. These side effects usually go away over time. Tell the healthcare provider about any side effects that are severe or do not go away.

What is PEP and is it safe?

PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication series to prevent HIV after a possible exposure.

Is there a difference between PrEP and PEP?

PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is a medication series to prevent HIV after a possible exposure. PrEP is only intended for HIV negative individuals prior to a potential exposure. PEP is for folks who feel they were exposed to HIV and is most effective if initiated within 72 hours after possible exposure. To learn more about PrEP and PEP visit GetPrEPTN.com