1 in 4 college students has an STI… We need to do something.

College life can be a party, but it’s also full of new and exciting social opportunities. Unfortunately, it can also be a breeding ground for serious health risks.
However, did you know:

“One in four college students has a sexually transmitted infection (STI) - this may be higher than you expected. STIs are infections transmitted by intimate sexual contact.“

Washington and Lee University

This means that even though you only have to worry about one person, you might still get one yourself. And if you don’t want to end up with a case of genital herpes or chlamydia You should know how to protect yourself. The best way to protect yourself from STIs is by using condoms. If you’re not sure how to use them, ask your doctor or a nurse for advice; they’ll show you how and help you get started on a good routine. You should also take an STI test if you have sex with someone new or if you experience symptoms like itching, burning, or genital discharge.

The first rule of STI prevention is the same as the first rule of life: know your status. If you’re sexually active and not sure if you have an STI, get tested. Your doctor or a local clinic can run some tests for free.

Some Prevention Tips

1. Abstinence, or refraining from sexual activity, is the only 100% effective way to prevent STDs.
2. Consistent and correct use of condoms during sexual activity can greatly reduce the risk of contracting an STD. Make sure to use a new condom every time you have sex, and check the expiration date.
3. It's important to get tested regularly for STDs, especially if you are sexually active. This can help you detect any infections early and get prompt treatment if necessary.
4. The more sexual partners you have, the greater your risk of contracting an STD. Limiting your number of sexual partners can help reduce your risk.
5. It's important to have open and honest communication with your sexual partners about your sexual health and history. This can help you both make informed decisions about sexual activity and reduce the risk of contracting an STD.
6. Vaccines are available for certain STDs, such as HPV and hepatitis B. Getting vaccinated can greatly reduce your risk of contracting these infections.
7. Avoid sharing personal items like towels or razors that could potentially transmit STDs.

The best way to do that is by using condoms every time you have sex. But that’s not always possible — especially when you’re drunk or high and not thinking straight. These scenarios are exactly what the founders of SafeChoice had in mind when they created this amazing solution. SafeChoice vending machines are the best modern solution that provides contraceptives and products such as Plan B, Condoms, Lubrication, OTC medication, and Feminine Hygiene Products at affordable prices. When you need protection from STIs and STDs but don’t have the time or energy to make sure your partner is brought protection, there will always be an option right there on campus.

SafeChoice has made its mission very clear, to EMPOWER young adults with the option to make the right choice. It's undoubtedly the only contraceptive vending machine out there, offering a wide variety of options at affordable prices.

We must all work together to stop this alarming spread of STIs and STDs. One way to do that wants to spread the word to everyone that we can from college/university personnel, professors, and student clubs who could help make this problem go away. Join our SafeChoice program and share the details with the people who need it most!

SafeChoice can currently be found through their website safechoiceusa.com or one of their social media accounts. Their social media handles on all platforms us @SafeChoiceUSA. They are now present on Instagram, Tik Tok, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

This article was written on November 30th, 2022. All of the information above is true based on public information and an interview with a SafeChoice staff member. All of the information above is subject to change.