Both civilized and barbaric conversations happen in the name of sex, and with Valentine’s Day a holiday for most people across campus, sexual health is something to talk about.
On Feb. 3 the Bruin Cafeteria on Taylorsville Redwood Campus seemed like a great place to talk about responsible sex and condom use. The talk turned into conversations with people both shy and bold, but mostly discrete when talking about sex.
“What do you mean sexual health?” says an SLCC instructor who asked his name be withheld. “Actually, I’m 74 years old and I know absolutely nothing.”
Many faculty, staff and students at SLCC are hesitant to talk about sex-related issues; many people are also often misinformed about condoms or how to use them properly.
“I’m fine to talk about [condoms] but I don’t really want to have my picture taken and associated with it,” says SLCC student Chris, who requested only his first name be used. “[Condoms are] super uncomfortable. It’s not the size of the condom that matters it’s the brand.”
Chris’ lack of accurate knowledge is common, with the most common misconceptions related to the importance of brand and how to properly store a condom.
“In my wallet, and glove box,” says Chris.
According to the FDA, proper fit and size are more important to condom use than brand, and condom manufacturers say condoms should never be stored in wallets. Instead, they recommend a cool dry place at or below room temperature, away from heat and humidity.
The SLCC Health and Wellness Center sells condoms and provides students with a place to get information and advice.
“[We] have all sizes, textures, and latex-free, there’s definitely different ones,” says a Health and Wellness staff member, who also asked her name not be used.
The Health and Wellness Center offers free appointments to talk about sexual health with a licensed professional. All consultations are private and confidential.
