5 Things You Can Do for Your Sexual Health Before Heading Back to Campus

It’s back to school time, which means classes, homework, and for some, gettin’ down. Here’s what you need to know to get an A+ in Safer Sex 101.

1. Take control of your birth control

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Trying to keep your college experience baby-free? Lucky for you, there are plenty of safe and effective birth control options to choose from. Many even have extra benefits, like clearing up acne and reducing period cramps. And depending on your insurance, it may even be totally free. (Thanks, Obamacare!)

2. Stock up on condoms

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Whether or not you plan on getting busy soon, stashing a few condoms in your purse, backpack, and dorm room is a smart move — even if you’re on birth control. Condoms are the best way for sexually active folks to protect themselves from both pregnancy and STDs, including HIV — pretty legit reasons to keep some around. And speaking of STDs…

3. Get tested for STDs

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“You can’t judge a book by its cover” applies to both your lit class AND sexually transmitted infections. You can’t tell if someone has an STD just by looking at them (or their genitals), because STDs don’t usually show any symptoms. And STDs are really, really common — most of us will get one at least once in our lives. The good news is many STDs are curable, and others can be treated, so get tested at least once a year.

4. Schedule a sexual health check-up.

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While you’re juggling classes, finals, and parties, don’t forget to take care of YOU. Sexual health check-ups — including Pap tests — are an essential part of staying healthy. They’re also a great time to talk with your doctor about birth control and STD testing. You can get a sexual health check-up from your regular doctor and/or many student health centers. And of course, you can always rely on Planned Parenthood health centers for sexual health check-ups, birth control, and STD testing.

5. Study up on consent

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When it comes to sex, consent = both of you saying “yes” to gettin’ busy and MEANING IT. Even if your partner doesn’t specifically say “no,” you still need to make sure they’re actually into it. They might be sending you a non-verbal “no” that you’re just not picking up on. And if they do say no, nyet, jen, nein, ne or non or otherwise express they want to put the brakes on whatever you’re doing (or want to be doing), respect them and stop right away. Never pressure, manipulate, or force someone into doing something sexually that they’re not comfortable with or don’t want to do. And don’t have sex with someone who’s drunk or high — they can’t give you consent. If there's any doubt, assume it's not consensual and NOT OKAY to continue.
 Your school’s sexual assault resource center and/or RAAIN are good resources for more info on consent and sexual assault.