As students, we often try to balance how to take care of our mental and physical well-being, including getting enough sleep, eating well, and practicing self-care while keeping up with our many responsibilities. But how often do you consider taking care of your sexual health? February is the season of love, and young adults are at increased risk of sexually transmitted infections. While young adults make up 25% of the sexually active population, they account for over half of all STI transmission. Because of this, the CDC has routine STI testing recommendations, so you know when to get tested:
- Adults and adolescents 13-65: HIV at least once
- Sexually active women younger than 25: gonorrhea and chlamydia each year
- Sexually active gay, bisexual, and men who have sex with men: yearly for syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea
Despite these recommendations, studies show that only a small percentage receive the recommended STI screening. Fortunately, Health Services makes STI testing easy. All you have to do is call 781-239-6363 and ask for an appointment. But don’t forget that other preventative measures can be implemented to reduce STI transmission, including reducing the number of sexual partners and using a condom.
