Contraception and Sexual Health

Individuals´ views and behaviour relating to sexual activity outside marriage are just that: individual. Personal, cultural, religious codes will affect choices. The purpose of this information is not to suggest that anyone should change their views just because they go to a different country. However,

• school students in UK receive a lot of information about these matters before coming to university
  
• there is a higher rate of unplanned pregnancy among international than home students
  
• sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are common
  
• students living away from families for the first time can find their situation leads to different relationships.

If you decide to be sexually active, you should know that

• condoms are recommended to prevent pregnancy and STDs
  
• contraception advice is free and confidential from the University Health Centre
• This advice is confidential – nurses and doctors cannot tell your friends, teachers or family anything
• “morning after”/emergency contraception is available from
  – doctors
  – pharmacies
  – the walk in centre at Hallamshire Hospital
  
• you can see a nurse rather than a doctor if you wish.