Penis-to-vagina sex carries a few major consequences, perhaps the biggest of which is the potential for conceiving a child. There are ways to avoid this, namely condoms and birth control. And even though responsibility of “birth control” generally falls on the individual with a vagina, it does not mean that the person with a penis is off the hook. Familiar with the phrase “it takes two to tango?”

So if you’re the person with a penis and you want to discuss birth control with your partner—bravo!!! It can be a weird thing to bring up when it isn’t your body, but your sperm is definitely a necessary player in making a baby. Here are a few ideas on how to bring up birth control with your partner (assuming neither of you want a baby right now):

• Ask what their thoughts are and what they know about birth control.

• Offer to go to the doctor together to discuss options. There are many!

• Offer to split any costs associated with birth control (either a copay for the doctor’s office or for the prescription itself).

• Do your own research into side effects and benefits. It shows a level of respect if you understand and acknowledge that any form of birth control will have some impact on their body.

• Remember your role as well! Consider going in on this responsibility thing together (meaning that you can offer to use condoms!).