Student Health now offers free safer sex supplies

Nearly half of the 20 million new sexually transmitted infections (STIs) diagnosed annually are among young people aged 15-24 years old, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

To help counteract these alarming statistics, Student Health Services at Augusta University is now offering a Safer Sex Supplies Program to deliver condoms to students, free of charge.

Dr. Robert Dollinger, director of Student Health Services, says the educational program aims to help remove barriers to accessing safer sexual health supplies, such as cost, accessibility, embarrassment and privacy. Dollinger states that if abstinence is not a reality for you, there are several ways to minimize your risk of contracting an STI:

You and your partner should get tested for STIs before you have sex.
Always use protection such as condoms.
Avoid using alcohol and other drugs that could impair your judgment.
Do not do anything you aren’t comfortable with.

Tammy Graham, a co-founder of the program, agrees.

While today’s youth are taking ownership of their bodies and sexual prowess, Student Health Services officials are using this program to help students be an authoritative voice when it comes to their sexual health. Whether a student chooses abstinence or to be sexually active, Student Health Services want students to feel supported and feel this program is a step in the right direction.

Each package will include sexual health information along with a variety of male and female condoms and lubricants. Students interested in this service can order online, and discreetly labeled packages will be delivered to the student’s on-campus residence.

Other services provided at the Student Health Clinic include gynecology services, pap exams, family planning counseling, STI screenings and HPV vaccinations. To make an appointment, call 706-721-3448.