Evaluating Student Use, Access, and Perceptions of a Campus Sexual Health Vending Machine

Background: Sexual health vending machines have emerged as a promising approach to expanding access to contraception and other sexual health products on college campuses. This study evaluated patterns of use, perceived accessibility, and student attitudes towards the sexual health vending machine at Tufts University. Methods: This mixed-methods evaluation combined an online survey with vending machine refill data. Analyses included descriptive analysis, chi-square tests, and thematic analysis of open-ended responses. Results: The survey was open from October to December 2025 and included 118 respondents. Self-reported use suggests students engage with the vending machine on an as-needed basis. Users were significantly more likely to agree that it increased their likelihood of using a condom, compared with non-users. However, both groups expressed strong support for the vending machine, reporting that it improved access to sexual health resources, offered satisfactory product variety, and should be provided by the university. Although many students appreciated its visibility and role in reducing stigma, concerns about privacy and discretion were the most commonly reported reasons for non-use. Restock data indicated sustained year-round utilization, with expected decreases during vacation periods. Conclusion: Overall, these findings suggest that sexual health vending machines represent a scalable strategy for expanding access to sexual health resources in university settings. Offering a unique combination of immediacy, affordability, and convenience, this low-barrier resource may also promote preventive sexual health behaviors across campus, even among non-users, and support broader efforts to prevent sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy among young adults.