To make it easy, I have complied a list of 5 things you can do, before the start of term, to make sure you’re playing smart and safe.
#5. Stock up on safer sex tools.
Add condoms, dental dams, lube and — if you’re at risk — a pregnancy test to your list of things you need. You’re already stocking up on deodorant, toothpaste, hair goop, tampons and other toiletries; how easy is it to walk one isle over and stock up on safer sex tools? it can be embarrassing but it’s more embarrassing to be known as the kid with gonorrhea. Protect yourself.
#4. Take a refresher course on safer sex practices.
It’s sad, but most incoming college freshman might have only had 1 or 2 experiences with sexual education. this is why it’s important for you take sexual education into your own hands.
Websites like Planned Parenthood, Scarlet Teen and the blog that spawned this column, Let’s Talk About Sex, are all available to you with a few clicks of your mouse. These resources exist to help you have a healthy, safe and advantageous sex life. use them.
Let’s Talk About Sex Planned Parenthood Scarlet Teen
#3. See a doctor to get a physical and a full STI/STD panel.
Whenever you’re moving or traveling it’s a smart idea to visit a doctor and have them look under the hood.
Although you might feel fine, there could be any number of medical issues lurking behind the energy and invulnerability of youth.
The average age for guys and girls to have their first sexual experience is 17. So, it’s very likely that you’ve already had sex by the time you arrive on campus. this means you could already have an STI. For a large number of those infected with an STI there are no symptoms.
Testing is quick, easy, painless and, if you have insurance, very inexpensive. if you don’t have insurance, you can contact your local Planned Parenthood to see what free or low-cost services are available to you.
Ladies, this is the time where, if you haven’t already, you should be inquiring about hormonal birth control. There are more options than just “the pill.” There is a shot, implant, patch, diaphragm, cervical ring or an IUD and doctors will be able to discuss them all in depth.
A doctor will also be able to answer any questions you have about your body. a doctor will be able to tell you if your breasts are too droopy, your penis is too small or whether it’s a mole or herpes. if you are unsure of anything, your doctor can help you sort it all out.
#2. Talk to your parents.
I’m sure many of you reading shrieked at the idea of having an open and honest conversation about sexuality with your parents. But your parents are smart people and they have lots of valuable wisdom they can share with you.
If your parents are not comfortable talking about sexual issues, call an aunt, uncle, grandparent or older sibling who would be willing to share their experiences with you.
Just as with sexual education, often the responsibility falls to the student to seek out the firsthand knowledge of our elders. The information is out there, but sometimes you have to ask for it.
#1. Relax.
Sometimes the idea of sex can feel like a tsunami wave crashing into your face, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Sexuality is a huge part of who we are as humans, but it’s not all we are.
This summer, take some time and disconnect from social pressures and influences. Connect with yourself and find out what you really want. if sex is what you want then you already have everything you need to do it smartly. if it isn’t, well… you have the receipts.
If you think you’re ready for sex but haven’t done it yet, it might be a good idea to find a kind and caring friend to help you over the initial hump. that way you can experience sex in a positive and safe atmosphere. People often find once they cross that first line, it helps them make a more balanced decision about their sexual health and desires.
If you think you’re not ready for sex, then don’t have it. Although some people might try to make you feel pressured into having sex before you’re ready, it is ultimately your decision what you want to do. Don’t ever feel pressured into doing something you’re not ready for.
Sex is a big deal. But you don’t have to let it crush you, it’s all a matter of how you handle it. if you take these tips to heart, you can check it off your list early and get back to enjoying your summer. as an evil and homicidal cartoon lion once said:, “Be prepared!”