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Sexual Health

Sexual Health

Be prepared, protected and empowered

We have assembled many resources for you to get free safe sex supplies. As well as access to medical consultation, strategies for safe sex, and other important information!

Sexual Health Tips & Resources

What do you define as sex? 🤔
Surprise, there is no single definition! We do not all engage in the same sexual behaviors. There is no such thing as "gay" sex or "straight" sex. It's all just sex.
However you choose to do it, or not (staying abstinent is okay too!), we have some tips to help your experiences be safe and healthy!
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Tip #1

Communicate

First things first, consent!

Consent isn't given just once, but an ongoing agreement between partners during the entire sexual experience. To remember this, we recommend our owls make M.O.V.E.S..

  • M: Mutual
  • O: Ongoing
  • V: Voluntary
  • E: Expressed
  • S: Safe

Also talk with your partner about these important topics before you engage in sex.

Having these discussions before sex will make the experience safer and more gratifying. Tap the links below to learn more.

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Tip #2

Protection

There are many ways you can protect yourself and your partner during sex. This includes physical barrier, such as condoms, dental guards, etc. Then the use of medications or vaccinations are other forms of protection. Each have their own particular use and benefit.

In general, people use protection during sex to prevent:

  • Sexually Transmitted Infections aka STIs
  • Unintended Pregnancies

Protection Options:

Note: No single method of protection is 100% effective and each have their own rate unique of effectiveness. Learn about each method to decide what is right for you.

  • Physical barriers, such as condoms, are used to prevent STIs and unintended pregnancies.
  • Birth control, such as the pill or IUDs, are used to prevent unintended pregnancies, but will not protect you from STIs.
  • Vaccinations will protect you from a specific STI, but not unintended pregnancies. As well, not all STIs have vaccinations available.

How are STIs transmitted?

  • Sexual Contact
    This includes oral, anal and vaginal sex, i.e. fluid exchange.
  • Skin to Skin Contact
    This includes genital to genital touching or mucous membrane contact.
  • Blood Contact
    From using the same needles, open wounds, etc.
  • Parent-to-Child
    This includes in utero, through birth, and/or though breast milk.

    If you have an STI, you can still have a health happy child! Be open and honest with your doctor to receive timely treatment.

The most common symptom of STI's are NO symptoms. That's why it's important to use protection every time.

Remember: You cannot reuse physical barrier protect products, such as condoms. For maximum protection, use new and undamaged products each time you engage in sex.

Use the links below to find information about protection options, free safe sex supplies or emergency care.

Vaccinations

In addition to physical protection, getting vaccinated can help prevent contracting and spreading STIs. Meet with your doctor to know your status.

HIV Prevention and Treatment

In addition to physical barriers, take advantage of HIV prevention medications that are available pre- and post-exposure.

PrEP stands for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis. This is a medication for people at high-risk for HIV. It is a daily medication that reduces the risk of contracting HIV. And, when used in conjunction with a condom, it is even more effective!

PEP stands for Post-Exposure Prophylaxis. This is for people who have been exposed to HIV. If taken within 72 hours, it decreases the likelihood that you contracted the disease.

Talk with your doctor if you think you are at high risk for HIV. PreP is available at FAU Student Health Services (SHS)!

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Tip #3

Get Tested

Get testeded annually or between partners.

Knowing your status can help you get treatment quickly and protect others. See below a list of free testing locations.

Mental Health Self-help

LinkedIn Learning

Check out these pre-selected modules or click "All Modules" to explore!

Healthy Campus 2030

Safe & Healthy Relationships

Beyond the physical, learn more about what makes a healthy emotional relationship.