UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State Health Promotion and Wellness (HPW) and University Health Services (UHS) is hosting events to recognize Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) Awareness Week.
STI Awareness Week is being held April 10 to 14. It seeks to increase students’ awareness about the impact of STIs; reduce STI-related stigma, fear, and discrimination; and provide tools and knowledge for prevention, testing, and treatment for STIs.
Sexually transmitted infections are a growing concern in the United States. According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately one in five people in the U.S. — about 20% of the population — had an STI in 2018.
"It's important to talk about STIs and sexual health so that we can normalize these conversations and increase the likelihood that college students will get tested regularly," said Kate Rawson, HPW community health educator.
Many individuals infected with STIs do not show any symptoms, which makes regular testing critical for early detection and treatment. By normalizing regular testing and openly talking about STIs, college students can take a crucial step toward protecting themselves and their partners.
Upcoming events include:
Wednesday, April 12 — "Safer Sex" workshop
6 to 7 p.m. in HUB-Robeson Center 129A
Join HealthWorks for a safe sex workshop. Learn about different types of STIs, how they are transmitted and strategies to practice safe sex. Students are encouraged to register, but anyone can attend. The first 15 students to register will get to make a free "safer sex kit" to take home. Those interested in attending can register through their online form.
Friday, April 14 — Access to Protection
11:30-2:30 p.m. at the HUB-Robeson Center, Table 8
Pick up a free "safer sex kit," which includes condoms, condom pals, dental dams and lube packets. Peer educators will provide information and answer questions about sexual health.
Students can also pick up condoms and lube packets in the lobby of the Student Health Center through the end of the month. Condoms are always available in Community Health, located on the second floor.