Love Your Body Week. Body Love Blog: Sexual Health

Student Life & Services February 15, 2021

Love Your Body Week 2021
Sexual Health

Why is Sexual Health Important?

According to the CDC and 2018 School Health Profiles "fewer than half of highschools teach key CDC topics for sexual health education” (2021).

What does this mean? We have work to do to educate you! Sexual health is a part of everyone’s life. To stay healthy just like any other area of wellness, we must be informed to make the best decisions for OURSELVES. Sexual health is something that often carries stigma, or feels taboo… but it is critical to get comfortable with these topics so that when we need to have a conversation with someone else about our sexual health, we feel comfortable. This is NORMAL! Want to work with a professional? Check out CAPS!

It is important to remember that everyone feels differently about sex, sexual health, and sexuality; we need to respect a person’s individual needs and feelings as they come, especially our own. PERIOD.

Consent (+ or – alcohol and other drugs):

Tea and Consent Video

Myth: Everyone in college is sexually active

Students report many different reasons for staying abstinent in college! Many are waiting for the “right” person, just do not want to, are too busy with their studies and interests/extracurricular, are working to fall in love with themselves before sharing with another, and so many other personal reasons! You should never feel pressured to throw out your values and intentions when it comes to taking care of YOU. Sex is personal and something you should work to educate yourself on to ensure you are ready.

How often should I get tested for STIs if I am sexually active?

Before engaging with a new sexual partner, it is best to get checked! Another option is to get annually tested regardless of activity to stay on track! Testing is normal and healthy, never a bad thing. Testing is just a safety precaution, as some folx may not know the signs and symptoms of an STI, or they are not apparent! Worried? Get checked! The process is quick.

How can I schedule an appointment at Health Services to do so? So easy! Call before going to health services so that we can keep you safe. To schedule an appointment, you can go to the website and use the portal to select a provider and time/day! We offer STI testing and other regular check-ins like pap smears etc.