Hey Condors! For Sexual Health Week, we’ll be expanding the way we talk and think about our sexual health. Discussing this topic can feel taboo for some students, but the more we talk about it, the easier it can be! Let’s normalize talking about our sexual well-being, and we can start right here!
To start with the basics, let’s focus on you and your sexual health! We can do this by destigmatizing the conversation around STDs and STIs (sexually transmitted diseases/infections). The truth is, they can happen, and they can happen to you or someone you are sexually active with. So what should you do if you think you have an STD or STI?
Help! Something feels funny!
The first step is to get tested. If you notice something is off with your sexual health, make a note of your symptoms. If you’re covered under the CSI Health and Dental plan, you can use the Dialogue Health app to discuss your symptoms and see if getting tested for an STD/STI is the best course of action! You can get tested at a variety of places: your healthcare provider, a sexual health clinic, a local public health unit, or even a walk-in clinic.
Next is to talk to your partners about your diagnoses. As awkward as it may be, it’s important that your partner(s) are aware of what STDs and STIs they have transmitted from you! That way, both you and your partners can begin the next important step: start and complete the recommended treatment.
Now that you’ve had your first experience with dealing with STDs/STIs, you can avoid this situation by practicing safer sex. There’s a variety of ways to do this, follow us on Instagram and keep up with our daily tips to learn more!
I want to learn more!
So now that we’ve covered the basics, you can look out for workshops and events going on this week discussing sexual themes you may be unfamiliar with. Curious about the ins and outs of polyamorous relationships? Did you miss out on queer and trans sexual education in high school? Are you looking to connect with others in a safe and welcoming environment? You’ll want to check these out:
- What is Polyamory? With Turn Me On Podcast
- The Queer & Trans Sex-Ed You Should Have Gotten in High School with Eva Bloom
- Swipe Right Night: Find a Date or Make a Friend
Still looking for more information? Conestoga offers support on sexual health from pregnancy, birth control, prenatal care, and more. Find out more here.