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For some college students, this is not one of the issues they will face because they’ve made a choice to abstain from sex. On the other hand, there are other college students who want to learn more about sex, but don’t know quite where to begin. My advice: wherever you are on the continuum, move slowly. A good starting point is an article entitled Condom Sense at Caltech written by Alice Sogomonian, one of the Caltech Health Center nurse practitioners. It's important to become educated about your sexual health, talk with your partner and be clear about boundaries and expectations, and develop skills to deal with peer pressure. Pick up one of the many brochures outside my office. If you still have questions, I’m always available to meet with you.
Condom Sense If you decide to be sexually active, be smart: use condoms properly and consistently each time you have sex (vaginal, oral, anal). Condoms still are the safest form of protection from contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI) and/or an unplanned pregnancy. You can get free male condoms from: the student health center, health education office, the RAs (house supplies) and the Health Advocates carry a very limited supply in their first aid bags. If you are unsure about how to properly use one, visit the link below. Research shows the more comfortable you are using them, the higher the likelihood you will. The link also provides a safer sex script – how to talk with your partner. Female condoms are available from the nurse practitioners and from the health educator. What is a dental dam? |
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STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, HPV/genital warts, herpes, and HIV/AIDS exist on most college campuses, including Caltech. Adolescents and young adults contract STIs at much higher rates than older adults for a number of reasons (CDC, 2003). While students may be experimenting with their newfound freedoms, I want you to know that the staff at the Student Health Center offer confidential STI testing, along with a plethora of other services. I encourage you to talk openly and honestly with your health care providers so we will be able to meet your needs. If you would like to get tested, drop by the Student Health Center and see one of the nurse practitioners. During this consultation, they will be able to determine which tests are appropriate, inform you of the process involved (cost, method of testing, referral and follow-up if necessary) and answer any other concerns you may have including insurance-related questions. Free, anonymous (or confidential) HIV testing is available at the Pasadena Public Health Department, 1845 N. Fair Oaks Avenue, Monday through Thursday 9am - 5pm. Results are available within 30 minutes. For more information, call 744-6030. As you may know, a vaccine has recently become available for HPV, which can cause cervial cancer. To become more informed about the HPV vaccine, please read the CDC HPV Vaccine Fact Sheet. The Caltech Student Health Center has this vaccine available to female students. Contact the Student Health Center for more information.
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Wendy Lopata
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