Students in North Wales urged to avoid ‘sexual health lottery’

New students at colleges and universities across North Wales will be offered sexual health advice as part of Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board’s annual SEXtember campaign.

The health board is working with student unions and education providers to deliver safe sex messages and guidance about what to do if students need sexual health check-ups or support.

The campaign seeks to raise the profile of sexual health services available to everyone in North Wales – and to offer additional advice to students as they start a new term amidst relaxed COVID-19 restrictions.

Dr Ushan Andrady, Consultant in Sexual Health and HIV at Ysbyty Gwynedd in Bangor, leads the month-long initiative.

“Our SEXtember campaign promotes healthy and happy sex lives, and helps to support the sexual health of our communities,” he said.

“The annual campaign is designed to encourage people to talk about sex, and to raise the profile of important issues like contraception, STI testing and access to sexual health services without stigma or embarrassment.

“Every year, thousands of young people take their next steps in life by starting university and college education in North Wales. Importantly, our campaign will help these young people – many of whom will have been subject to COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions since they were 16 – understand more about the sexual health services and support available to them if they need it in the months and years ahead.

“Your sexual health shouldn’t be a lottery, so our campaign encourages everyone to stay safe – and make their sexual health a priority.”

SEXtember also includes an education webinar for healthcare professionals, to help them better support patients who may need advice or treatment related to their sexual health.

More information on the SEXtember campaign, including downloadable materials, is available from the campaign webpage.