Sexual health is just as important as protecting yourself from the flu, going to the dentist or getting an annual checkup, but it is something that most college students forget about. According to the American Sexual Health Association, one in two sexually active persons will contract a sexually transmitted disease (STD) by age 25. We spoke to Stamps Health Services senior director, Dr. Benjamin Holton to learn more about how to prevent and fight against STD’s.

STDs are infections that are transmitted through sexual contact with an infected person. A person can contract two different types of STDs, viral and bacterial. Viral STDs such as HIV, Herpes, and Human Papillomavirus can be managed, but as of now, there is no cure. On the other hand, bacterial STDs can be treated through strong antibiotics if caught early enough. These STDs include Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, and Syphilis. “The most common STD that we diagnose at Stamps is Chlamydia,” said Dr. Holton, but “HPV is the most common STD.” Symptoms vary with each STD but commonly include sores on the mouth and genitals, unusual discharge and pain when urinating.  

The first step in preventing STDs is to practice safe sex. There is a common myth that using only hormonal birth control is enough to practice safe sex. This is untrue, as hormonal birth control does not protect against STDs. Condoms help reduce the risk of contracting an STD and help prevent against HIV. When using a condom, check the expiration date before use and remember to store them in a cool, dry place. This will help ensure that the condom you are using will protect you from contracting a sexually transmitted disease. Health Initiatives participates in a Condom Availability Program that provides the campus community with access to a variety of condoms, lubricants, and contraceptives. Visit https://healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/condoms for more information on this program!

Practicing monogamy will also help prevent the spread of STDs. Dr. Holton said, “Students who are sexually active who are not in a long-term monogamous relationship should consider annual screening for STD’s, including HIV.” Look for partners who are willing to have discussions about safe sex and are interested in protecting themselves from STDs. Being able to discuss sexual health openly and candidly with your partner is an important step in taking care of your health. Make sure to ask about your partner’s sexual history, including if they have been exposed to an STD.

The most important thing is to get tested. Testing frequently could help catch a disease and prevent the spread of infections. Dr. Holton recommended that “sexually active individuals under age 25 should get tested annually for chlamydia and gonorrhea.” Testing annually allows you a piece of mind and helps protect from an STD that could otherwise go unnoticed. “Individuals with higher risk, such as men who have sex with men and individuals who have multiple partners should consider more frequent screening,” said Dr. Holton.

SHS offers low-cost testing to students and eligible spouses. Contact SHS immediately if you have unusual symptoms or have been exposed to an STD. Female students and transgender students should contact Women’s Health at 404.894.1434 to schedule an appointment for testing. Visit health.gatech.edu/stitesting for more information on how to get tested. Male students can get screened through the primary care clinic. Appointments can be scheduled online at health.gatech.edu or by calling 404-894-1420.  It is important to get medical care if you experience “urinary discomfort, penile discharge, abnormal vaginal discharge, genital sores or lower abdominal pain,” recommend Dr. Holton.

Make sure to make your sexual health a priority not only in April but every month thereafter. Your body and your partner will thank you. For more information on safe sex, practices go to healthinitiatives.gatech.edu/sexual-health.