Reproductive health is arguably one of the most important aspects of the modern collegiate’s life, but despite this there is a huge tabboo in talking about it. There are many reasons that this happens, often due to religious backgrounds, or simply a lack of education, but regardless of one’s sexual choices, reproductive health is absolutely imperative.
I recently interviewed a fellow collegiate about her recent experience of beginning her journey with birth control. At 21 her reasons for not looking into it for so long were what many collegiate’s reasons are: lack of knowledge; not knowing how much it would cost, how to access it, and not having a consistent relationship. It took being in a consistent, mature relationship to get her to consider the precautions she needed to take with her body and her health.
She heard about the OSU women’s clinic, which offers STI testing and reproductive care. She easily booked an appointment online, and it turned out the clinic accepted her OSU student insurance, so everything was free. The clinic also accepts a variety of other insurances. She said the nurses were kind, educated her on important testing and and sexual health. Because she was over 21 she had to get a pap smear and a breast exam before they could recommend a contraceptive. After learning about her different options of contraceptives she ended up going with the pillAfterwards, she walked down the hall to their pharmacy, and picked it up.
About her experience she said, “It’s been a positive experience. I’m much more educated and not worried about my body.” From her experience she hopes that others will become more educated about the needs of their bodies, regardless of their sexual choices. Whatever your background and choices, whether you’re having sex or not, ask questions about your health and your contraceptive options.