There seems to be no topic out of bound at a university dinner party – right? At a Russel Group University, Thanksgiving dinner table, common discussions range from Space X to determinism. A few glasses of wine in, every educated voice is satirically mocking recent political happenings. I leave such social gatherings with a warm, content feeling in my belly that only a good debate can provide. I am very grateful for such open, educated discussions. However, when did we, as university students, create a general consensus that sexual health was taboo – or something to be ashamed about?
Unfortunately, sexual health does not receive the same attitude or conversation compared to other medical issues. This results in a lot of individuals feeling ashamed if they face a sexual health problem during their time at university. Individuals may fear that such an issue might lead to them being unfairly labelled as overly promiscuous and seen as deserving of the consequences. However, this assumption is entirely misguided. Experiencing a sexual health issue is not inherently tied to promiscuity; it can occur regardless of a person’s sexual activity level. These matters are far more complex than the simplistic and judgmental narratives that society often perpetuates.
As a community of students with open minds, I think it is often important to de-stigmatise such discussions and problems. Not so long ago, mental health was a taboo, but university students now openly talk about this with their closest friends. It is not as stigmatised as it used to be and it is pivotal that we as a collective allow this to follow suit in the discussion of sexual health. I am not asking readers to bring this up (possible misconceptions or where to seek guidance) in public lecture halls – but rather, in more intimate settings. De-stigmatisation begins in discussions over the dinner table – and when better to start than now?
EUSA provide a section on their website with advice for students who may be possibly experiencing a sexual health issue. I would highly recommend individuals to give this a quick read- as I found information I was unaware of. For instance, in Scotland, you can order a free HIV test to your home via the Terrence Higgins Trust. Whilst attending a university that engages in hook-up culture, it is ones responsibility to ensure your social circles are aware of how to safely practice safe sex and are fully educating themselves on sexual health.
“Spittal Street Clinic, 22-24 Spittal Street, Edinburgh” by Mike Shaw is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.