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 in Medford, Massachusetts, United States.

METHODS

This mixed-methods evaluation combined an online survey with open and closed-ended responses and vending machine restocking records to contextualize overall utilization. Enrolled students ≥18 years were recruited using flyers and campus social media. Analyses included descriptive analysis, Fisher's exact 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 as needed. Users were significantly more likely than non-users to agree that it increased their likelihood of condom use. However, both groups expressed strong support for the vending machine, citing improved access to sexual health resources, satisfactory product variety, and endorsement of university provision. Although many students appreciated its visibility and role in reducing stigma, privacy and discretion concerns were the most commonly reported reasons for non-use. Restocking records indicated sustained utilization during the academic year.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that the Tufts University sexual health vending machine is a valuable initiative that may improve access to sexual health resources and contribute to the normalization of preventative sexual health behaviors. Its unique combination of immediacy, affordability, and convenience may further enhance its value as a low-barrier resource for students.