Sexual health and well-being is an important aspect of one's life to explore and cultivate within one's own set of values and beliefs. College is a time that many people start examining their own values around sex, discovering their preferences, and learning to express what they want from their relationships. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, free of pressure, discrimination and violence.
Gonzaga University offers a range of reproductive health, sexual transmitted infection (STI) and sexual violence prevention resources designed to promote sexual health as a state of physical, emotional, mental, spiritual and social well-being. Health and Counseling Services provides STI screenings and related health education. The Office of Health Promotion provides various educational and preventative resources.
Why is sexual health important? - The American Sexual Health Association provides definitions and understanding of sexual health and why education is important to individual development.
How to establish sexual values – Identifying and establishing your values and boundaries surrounding sexual intimacy is important to your development as a sexual being. Read this article for five helpful suggestions.
Below are some ways you can explore tips and tricks to engage further in your knowledge around sexual health and STIs.
APPS
My Sex Doctor App: A discreet, educational app that can be used offline and contains answers to a wide array of questions related to sexual health and well-being. Disclaimer: The app does contain an entire section about LGBTQ+ topics, but other parts of the app tend to use more gendered language and heteronormative assumptions.
Gottman’s Card Decks- Not sure how to start a conversation about sexual values or preferences with someone? Gottman’s Card Decks can help by offering questions and statements to discuss with your partner. Free on Apple and Android.
Paired: Couples and Relationships - A guide to help improve communication, stay connected, and deepen intimacy as a couple. Also includes tips from experts on a variety of sex and relationship topics.
RESOURCES
The Birds and the Baes: Want to ask your doctor about sexual health but don't know where to start? If you're not sure what you should be asking about—or even how to ask it—this guide has got you covered. Just answer a few questions—questions just like the ones a healthcare provider would ask-and this site will give you a personalized guide which what questions to ask and how to do it!
