You’ve picked out your Twin XL bedding, said goodbye to your high school experience, packed up the van, and are moved-in for college. You’re ready for this new chapter in your life, the life-long friends, the sports games, the career orientated classes, and the social events. The vision of your 8th grade health teacher putting a condom on a cucumber seems like a distant memory and you’re excited to see what the future holds.

Although college can fulfill all those things, it can also expose you to sneaky STIs. It is key to be informed and smart in regards to your own sexual health. In college, especially, it is extremely important to remember that your sexual choices are entirely your own. It can be easy to feel pressured through various outlets such as social media, pop-culture, and your friends, but YOU and only YOU have the power over your own body. You also have the power to choose who you share this information with, and that varies as well. Some people want to tell the whole world on Twitter, tell their small group of friends, or keep it to themselves; it’s entirely up to your discretion.

What is an STI?
An STI is a sexually transmitted infection. Although many platforms still use “STD”, the modern term is “STI” meaning sexually transmitted infection, rather than disease. These terms are used interchangeably, but it is important to note that not all of these infections will turn into diseases.

How do I get it?

You can develop an STI through any form of sexual contact (vaginal, oral, anal, etc.)

Ways to help prevent them: