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It is finally time to begin preparing for a perfect school year to remember. This might include decorating your trendy dorm and filling out your cute new planner. But making sure you’re prepared for a potential fling is definitely something to consider as well. 

Planned Parenthood of Greater Ohio (PPGOH) believes everyone should have access to the education and services needed to thrive, so in honor of back-to-school season, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide so you can have the best year yet! 

 

Getting Consent

Consent refers to giving permission or agreement to something, often about a specific action or situation. In certain contexts, such as sexual encounters, obtaining clear and enthusiastic consent from all parties is vital.

When asking for consent, clear and concise communication is key. Remember, “no” is a complete sentence. Even if consent is given at first, you or the other person can change their mind at any moment — that is okay and must be respected!

It might feel awkward if you’re hooking up with someone you just met, but asking a sexual partner for direct consent and checking in during sexual acts can heighten the experience. You can even use phrases like, “do you like that?” or “do you want me to keep going?” Nothing is more attractive than someone with confidence and respect for boundaries.

Want to see consent in action? Check out our videos of couples asking for consent.

 

Navigating Hook-Up Culture

"Hook-up culture" refers to casual sexual encounters. People may engage in hook-ups for various reasons, such as physical pleasure or to fulfill a desire for intimacy without commitment. If you think that hooking up is something you want to try, be sure to check in with yourself and decide if it’s something you want to explore.

Prioritizing boundaries with a hook-up partner is essential to having a good time and respecting yourself and others. Be sure you communicate exactly what you’re looking for and be open to hearing what your partner’s boundaries are too. You can always change your mind and decide not to hook up at any point.

It is important to remind yourself that hooking up and having casual sex is completely normal, as long as you prioritize your happiness, safety, and being respected by those you have sexual encounters with.

 

Having Safe Sex

Whether you’re engaging in a fling or getting intimate with your long-time partner, being prepared with protection such as condoms or birth control can help you have a worry-free school year and lower the risks of pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

 

Here are some things to remember to keep you and your partner safe:

  • Practice safe sex by using condoms or dental dams during sexual activity.

  • Get regular STI screenings and encourage your sexual partners to do the same.

  • Avoid sharing sex toys, and make sure to clean them thoroughly.

  • Avoid sexual contact if you or your partner has any symptoms of an STI.

  • Talk openly and honestly with your sexual partners about your sexual health and history.

 

Be Kind to Yourself

This is your year! You are strong, intelligent, and unstoppable. As your busy schedule begins, remember to take the time to breathe and practice self-care in the ways that work best for you. And take control of your reproductive health by making empowered decisions for your present and your future self!

Your friends at PPGOH hope you have a happy and healthy school year!

For more information on reproductive health care or services PPGOH offers, visit our website. To talk to a trained health educator, text 'PPNOW' to 774636 (PPINFO).

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