Concerning Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Many students have questions about sexual health and how to remain healthy while sexually active or are seeking information on how to avoid pressures to become sexually active.
The Wellness Center can provide unbiased scientific information about a range of issues:
- sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
- contraception (including barrier methods of contraception and hormonal / non-hormonal contraception)
- abortion and alternatives to abortion
- waiting for sex and sexual decision-making
Stop by the Wellness Center to pick up free resources like our Safer Sex Kits (male condoms and lube). Latex-free male condoms, insertive/female condoms, and dental dams are also available.
And remember, sexual intercourse is only one way to express affection or explore intimacy in a romantic relationship. The decision to remain abstinent is one way to emphasize other aspects of well-being. Our free Abstinence Kits include items that are designed to enhance your overall wellbeing: Play-Doh, bubbles, candy, a granola bar, hand sanitizer and lip balm.
Both Bacterial infections – Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, Syphilis – and Parasitic infections – Trichomoniasis – can be cured by a round of antibiotics once detected. Early detection is key for these because, if left untreated, these infections can cause some serious, permanent damage.
Viral infections however, which we remember by the H's – Herpes, Hepatitis, HPV and HIV – once acquired, the symptoms can be suppressed with medication, but can never be cured.
A few things to remember:
- STIs don't discriminate: According to the American Social Health Association, STIs affect people of all ages, genders, ethnicities, social backgrounds, and from all walks of life - in the U.S. alone there are approximately 19 million new cases each year, about half of which occur among youth ages 15-24 years.
- It is important to remember that most of these infections, whether bacterial or viral, DO NOT SHOW SYMPTOMS, or can lie dormant for years before showing symptoms. This is why it is so vital to get tested before engaging in a sexual relationship with a new partner.
- Talk about testing and your STI status with a potential new partner. Getting tested before engaging in sex with a new partner and seeing your partner's test results is the only way to ensure that you are both STI free.
- For more information or to schedule an appointment for STI testing, contact the Student Health Center.