There are a few key health topics that constantly circulate around college campuses each year.
On any given day, students are surrounded by information about how to maintain their mental health, how to be safe with alcohol and how to prevent sexually transmitted illnesses (STI).
Although the many flyers, emails and events about sexual health and STI prevention might feel overwhelming or ineffective, there”s a reason why these talks are so prevalent.
While the Vandal Health Education events and other outreach efforts might seem unnecessary, the reason for them is because the spread of STIs among college populations is a distinct problem. The discussions and extra information about this topic is one of the only things keeping college students informed.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, once someone has contracted an STI, they are two to five times more at risk for acquiring HIV through sexual contact. Nearly half of the 20 million STDs diagnosed every year are among people between the ages of 15 and 24 years old.
This is an issue definitely worth the attention of college students.
While the CDC cites abstinence as the primary means of STI prevention, it”s an option that”s not realistic for everyone. The second best means of prevention is to always use a condom, regardless of whether or not the other partner uses an oral contraceptive or other forms of birth control.
No matter what the situation is, it”s important to have an open and honest conversation between partners before engaging in sexual activities.
For anyone participating in sexual activities, it is vital to undergo consistent STD and STI tests. STI symptoms don”t always appear right away, and when they do they could be mistaken for something else, like a urinary tract or yeast infection.
STIs have a stigma of being embarrassing topics that shouldn”t be discussed, but that”s what some medical professionals are here for. They”re there to help, not judge.
In addition to safe-sex practices, when it comes to preventing the spread of STIs, maintaining personal, non-sexual health is a crucial element.
Consistent sleep, a healthy diet and regular exercise helps to build a strong immune system that will further prevent students from acquiring an STI or any other infection or disease.
Being a busy college student does not give anyone the excuse to not take care of themselves. Although many people might think school should come first, the ultimate priority for any person should be their overall health, and that includes students.
At the end of the day, STI prevention is a matter of personal responsibility. Regardless of how many events explain the ways to prevent STIs and maintain healthy sexual practices, it”s up to each individual to keep themselves safe.
Remember to not only listen to the information, but also to follow the guidelines for safe sex practices. When in doubt, the best course of action is to stay informed and aware.
– CB