Sexual Health Expert Dr. Deb Laino Shares Advice for a Safe and Healthy College Experience

Ahead of Sexual Health Awareness Month, Dr. Laino offers essential tips for students heading back to campus.

As college students prepare to return to campus this fall, it’s crucial to focus on sexual health amidst the excitement of a new academic year. Dr. Deb Laino, Sex and Relationship Therapist and Powerful Life Coach, is sharing her advice for students ahead of Sexual Health Awareness Month, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making, open communication, protection, and more.

“In the midst of new beginnings and social activities, it's essential for students to prioritize their sexual health,” says Dr. Laino. “Being well-informed and making responsible choices can significantly enhance your well-being and ensure a positive college experience.”

College life offers opportunities for exploration and new experiences, but it also brings the responsibility of managing one’s health. Dr. Laino urges students to prioritize the following as they head back to campus:

1. Educate Yourself:
   
   Take advantage of campus resources like health centers, workshops, and online tools to learn about sexual health topics. Understanding safe sex practices, STI prevention, and sexual health basics will empower you to make informed decisions. Knowledge about your body and sexual health can lead to a more comfortable and confident college experience.
   
   
2. Practice Safe Sex:
   
   Always use protection to prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies, Trojan BareSkin Raw condoms are an excellent choice for those seeking a closer, more natural feel while maintaining top-notch protection. These condoms are designed to enhance safety, comfort, and pleasure, helping you enjoy a healthier sexual experience.
   
   
3. Keep Pregnancy Tests on Hand:
   
   Even with reliable birth control, it’s important to have pregnancy tests like First Response Early Result Pregnancy Tests on hand so that you can stay informed about your pregnancy status and address any concerns promptly.
   
   
4. Communicate Openly:
   
   Effective communication with your partner(s) is essential. Discuss your sexual health, boundaries, and expectations openly and respectfully. This helps build trust and ensures that both parties are comfortable and consenting, contributing to a positive and safe sexual relationship.
   
   
5. Get Regular Check-Ups:
   
   Regular sexual health screenings are important for monitoring your health status and catching any issues early. Many college health centers provide these services at low or no cost to students, so be sure to keep your center’s phone number in a place that you can easily retrieve it. Keeping up with these check-ups is a proactive step in maintaining your sexual health.
   
   
6. Be Mindful of Alcohol and Drugs:
   
   Substance use can impair judgment and lead to risky sexual behavior. It’s important to stay aware of how alcohol and drugs may influence your decisions and actions. Always prioritize safety and ensure you are making choices you are comfortable with.
   
   
7. Support Vaginal and Penile Health:
   
   Staying hydrated and adding a daily oral feminine probiotic to your routine are simple yet effective ways to support vaginal health. RepHresh™ Pro-B™ Probiotic helps maintain the balance of yeast and bacteria in the vaginal environment, so you can feel confident. Additionally, to support urinary tract health, remember to urinate after sex to help flush out bacteria and lower the risk of UTIs. For penile health, use testicle wipes to reduce bacteria and maintain cleanliness. Regular self-exams are also crucial—check for any lumps or bumps, as testicular cancer can affect college-age males. Early detection is key to effective treatment and overall health.
   
   
8. Seek Support:
   
   If you have questions or concerns about your sexual health, don’t hesitate to seek support from campus health services, counselors, or trusted advisors. They can provide guidance and resources to help you navigate any issues you may encounter.

Dr. Laino emphasizes, “By integrating these practices into your college life, you can safeguard your sexual health and enjoy a fulfilling and safe experience on campus. Prioritizing sexual health is essential for a balanced and enjoyable college journey.”

For more information on Dr. Deb Laino, please visit the following website.

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