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Sexual Health Tips for College Students

Tips on how to avoid STDs and practice safe sex in college

Sexual health is one of the most important things a college student should manage while at college. Studies show "Somewhere between 20 and 25 percent of college students are or have been infected with an STD", hopefully this will get your attention. Students who plan to be sexually active in college need to know the risks, and ways to keep safe. You only have one body, and a poor decision one night could change your life forever, effecting every aspect of your future.

Birth Control

There are two types of birth control methods: hormonal and nonhormonal. Hormonal approaches include injections, hormonal intrauterine devices (IUD), implanon, oral contraceptives (the pill), nuva rings, and patches. Nonhormonal practices comprise of contraceptive sponges, diaphragms, female and male condoms, nonhormonal intrauterine devices (IUD), and spermicide. All vary in effectiveness and the duration of time for when to be used.

Sexually Transmitted Diseases

STD stands for Sexually Transmitted Disease. These diseases can be transmitted during any types of sexual contact where direct contact occurs. There are several types of STDs.

Common STD's include:

Sexual Health Tips

  • ALWAYS use condoms, there is no excuse not to, carry them at all times, refuse to have sex without them.
  • Limit the amount of sexual partners, the more students you have sexual contact with, the worse your odds get for getting a STD.
  • Both partners should be tested for STDs before engaging in sex

STD Resources

Following tips like these can help cut down on a student's chances of getting a STD in college.

"See your doctor for an annual exam and get all the necessary screenings. These screenings should include getting tested for STD's.

For girls - Getting a pap test is the best way to test for any abnormalities which could potentially be HPV. Early detection of HPV is crucial in preventing cervical cancer. Many college students aren't aware that routine Pap testing using a liquid- based Pap, such as the ThinPrep Pap Test remains their best protection against STD's and cervical cancer. All the recent hype surrounding the Gardasil vaccine has caused a lot of confusion and even though this vaccine is available, you still need to be tested!

For Guys - Get tested for STD's too! Many guys aren't aware that they are carrying an STD because symptoms in guys tend to be limited or nonexistent. Most university health centers will do these types of screenings so it won't hurt to go and find out." - Laura

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