SEXUAL HEALTH
Sexual Health
The concept of sexual health varies greatly among individuals. Like other aspects of our health and well-being, having knowledge and understanding about sexual health creates opportunities for us to lead healthy lives. Campus Wellness and Education promotes sexual health on campus not only to contribute to the well-being of individuals, but it will also improve the overall well-being of our campus community. We provide evidence-based health education resources, harm reduction supplies and opportunities for students to learn from health care providers. We also collaborate with campus and community partners to support and host sexual health events and campaigns on campus.
For a better understanding of the wholistic view we take on sexual health, consider the following working definition of sexual health by The World Health Organization:
“…a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled.” (WHO, 2006a).”
Programs
1. Express STI Testing
Every other Thursday | 12:30pm-3:30pm | Sept-April | Residence Wellness Hub (NCH 251)
In an ongoing effort to make testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) more accessible and convenient, the Student Health Clinic is providing express STI screening in the Nechako Residence at the Residence Wellness Hub (NCH 251). No appointment is needed.
For more information about this location please visit the Residence Wellness Hub Website.
Follow us on social media for all our events happening on campus @ubcoaccesswellbeing.
** Remember to bring your Provincial Health Number or iMed so we can send your samples to the lab. We will also need your student number for registration.
How It Works
Routine STI (sexually transmitted infection) testing includes screening for chlamydia and gonorrhea.
- Once you arrive at intake, we will email or text you a questionnaire.
- The nurse will call you over and will explain how to collect your own samples and you will take the provided swabs or urine cup to a nearby bathroom. It’s fast, easy and painless.
- Once finished, you will return your samples (in a paper bag) and we will be in touch within 2 weeks if there are any positive results. No news is good news!
- The whole process takes a few minutes.
- We may also give you a requisition to get bloodwork done at a community lab. This tests for HIV, syphilis and makes sure you are still immune to Hepatitis B.
Why get tested?
The only way to know if you have a sexually transmitted infection (STI) is to get tested, since it is common not to have any symptoms when you have an STI. The good news is that STIs are manageable, if not curable! The bad news is that if left untreated, they can lead to complications. Using condoms can reduce your risk of getting an STI but it does not eliminate your risk. If you’re sexually active, regular STI testing is key!
What if you want more privacy or time to ask the nurse personal questions?
We recognize that these events are not for everyone. If this is the case for you, you can book a private appointment at the Student Health Clinic (UNC 337). For more information on how to book, please visit the Student Health Clinic page here.
2. Nurse on Campus
Wednesdays | 12:00-2:00pm | Sept- April | PICNIC (UNC 122B)
Thursdays | 9:00-11:00am | Sept-April | Nechako 251
Stop by Picnic for weekly drop-in hours with our nurse on campus.
Our nurse is available to answer your questions related to physical, mental, emotional, or social wellbeing. Services are free and confidential, and no appointment is needed.
Some of the things you can visit the Nurse on Campus for include:
- Personalized tips on health and wellness.
- Information on navigating the health care system.
- Information about health services on campus.
- Free condoms and harm reduction supplies.
- Naloxone Training and free take-home Naloxone kit.
- Sexual health education.
- And so much more…
Please note that this time is designated for education and linking you to resources. If you have any personal health concerns that require an assessment, please seek medical attention:
- Make an appointment at the Student Health Clinic.
- Visit Health Link BC or call 811 to talk to a nurse.
- Use a community walk-in clinic.
Information and Resources
On Campus
Student Health Clinic
Student Union Resource Groups
(Pride Resource Centre and Sex Positivity Centre)
Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office
Community
Options for Sexual Health
Smart Sex Resource
Sex Sense Phone Line: 1-800-739-7367
“Sex Sense is a free, pro-choice, sex-positive, and confidential service. Our team of registered nurses, counsellors, and sex educators offer information and resources on sex, sexuality and sexual health, for people living in British Columbia and the Yukon, Canada.”
How We Got Here
Young adulthood is a critical time of learning about our sexual health and CWE is here to support your …
Information coming soon