Instructions:
To receive credit for viewing the presentation, review the slides and fill in your full name and Banner ID in the form at the end.
MAKING APPOINTMENTS
After you have finished this slideshow and entered your information at the end, you can call to schedule your appointment. Let the appointment secretary know that you have completed the Health Issues Class.
PRIOR TO YOUR APPOINTMENT
Do not urinate for at least 60 minutes prior to your appointment.
In case you need a pelvic exam, avoid douching or using vaginal creams, sprays, or deodorants 3-­5 days prior to your appointment.
Do not have sexual intercourse within 24 hours of your appointment.
YOUR APPOINTMENT DAY
If you are on your period or it starts the day of your appointment, you will need to call and reschedule. Bring your ECU 1Card and check in at the self check in kiosk, or with a front desk staff member. Plan on being at the ECU Student Health Service for approximately 45 minutes to one hour.
Bring your insurance card if you have an insurance plan that we accept at SHS.
Annual Gynecological (GYN) Exam
Women ages 20 and under*: the annual GYN exam will consist of a physical exam from the waist up (checking your breasts, heart, lungs, abdomen) and testing for gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV and syphilis. If you are having any vaginal symptoms or gynecological problems, you may also need a pelvic exam. The pelvic exam allows the provider to examine your vagina, cervix, and ovaries.
*if there is no past history of abnormal Pap testing
Annual GYN Exam
Women ages 21 and over: the annual GYN exam will consist of a physical exam from the waist up (checking your breasts, heart, lungs, abdomen) and testing for gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV and syphilis. If you are having any vaginal symptoms or gynecological problems, you may also need a pelvic exam. The pelvic exam allows the provider to examine your vagina, cervix, uterus, and ovaries. In addition, every 3 years, a Pap test will also be performed.
WORK-­UP
Your appointment begins with a nursing staff member, who will check your blood pressure, other vital signs, and weight. You will also be asked questions about your medical and gynecological history, including questions that may seem personal. We ask because the information is important to your health. All information is kept private and confidential.
You will also be given a urine cup to collect a urine sample.
THE EXAM
After work up you will be taken to an exam room. You will be asked to undress according to what type of exam you are having.
The provider will come in to the room, talk with you, and perform your exam. Please feel free to bring up any ongoing health problems, or ask questions about your health. Be honest with your provider. Do not be afraid to discuss any concerns you have about your health.
Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Tests
The urine sample collected when you arrive is for chlamydia and gonorrhea testing. After your provider talks with you and performs your exam, you will go to the lab for blood tests for HIV and syphilis. Other tests may be also performed if indicated. Your provider will talk with you about what tests he/she recommends.
Why do we test for STIs?
Many women have been exposed to STIs but have no symptoms. These STIs can cause long term health problems, and women who are unaware they are affected will continue to pass STIs to other partners. Regular screening is important to overall health and wellness.
Testing for other STIs
Genital herpes
A lab test can be done if symptoms are present to confirm the presence of the herpes virus. Genital warts (Human Papilloma Virus)
There is not a lab test for warts. It is diagnosed by visualization by the provider. HPV changes on the cervix may be detected through a Pap test.
Hepatitis B or C
Requires a blood test. If there are other STIs that you have concerns about, please feel free to talk with the provider about them during your visit.
Human Papilloma Virus
What Is HPV?
HPV is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Human papillomavirus is the name of a group of viruses that includes more than 100 different strains or types. More than 30 of these viruses are sexually transmitted, and they can infect the genital area of men and women including the skin of the penis, vulva (area outside the vagina), or anus, and the linings of the vagina, cervix, or rectum. Most people who become infected with HPV will not have any symptoms and will clear the infection on their own.
Some of these viruses are called "high-­risk" types, and may cause abnormal Pap tests. They may also lead to cancer of the cervix, vulva, vagina, anus, or penis. Others are called "low-­risk" types, and they may cause mild Pap test abnormalities or genital warts.
How Is HPV Diagnosed?
Most women are diagnosed with HPV on the basis of an abnormal Pap tests. A Pap test is the primary cancer-­screening tool for cervical cancer or pre-­cancerous changes in the cervix, many of which are related to HPV. An HPV DNA test will be done from your Pap test to detect the high-­risk types of HPV, if the Pap results have a specific abnormality. Have you heard of the HPV vaccine?
Who should get the vaccine?
The HPV vaccine is recommended for 11-­12 year-­old girls and boys, and can be given to girls/boys as young as 9. The vaccine is also recommended for 13-­26 year-­old girls/women & boys/men who have not yet received or completed the vaccine series who may or may not be sexually active. Is the same vaccine given to both females and males?
Yes, males will receive the same vaccine that females do. It is given as 3 injections over 6 months and helps protect males and females ages 9 to 26 from 90% of genital warts cases. The vaccine also helps protect females ages 9 to 26 from about 75% of cervical, 70% of vaginal, and up to 50% of vulvar cancer cases. HPV Vaccine
How long does the vaccine protection last? Will a booster shot be needed?
So far, studies have followed women for more than five years and found that women are still protected. More research is being done to find out how long protection will last, and if a booster vaccine is needed years later.
What does the vaccine not protect against?
There are more than 100 HPV strains;; several strains were selected for the vaccine because they cause approximately 70% of cervical cancers and 90% of genital warts. With the vaccine not covering all types, it is important for women to continue getting screened for cervical cancer (regular Pap tests). The vaccine will not prevent other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) either, so it will still be important for sexually active adults to reduce exposure to HPV and other STIs.
Breast Exam
Breast cancer affects a growing number of women in the United States. If breast cancer runs in your family, you are at higher risk. Early detection is crucial. The health care provider will perform a breast exam as part of your appointment. Breast Self Examination
In addition to the breast exam by the health care provider, you should do a breast self examination once a month. Learning how to do the breast self-­exam
can be life-­saving. What is a pelvic exam?
The pelvic exam, where the health care provider checks the organs in the
reproductive system, may be needed depending on your age,
or if you are having any gyn problems.. A speculum is used to open the vagina
and lab specimens may be collected. A bimanual exam (the provider uses their fingers to assess internal organs) may also be performed. Pap smears
The Pap smear is a screening procedure to aid in the detection and diagnosis of abnormal changes in the tissue of the cervix. Women over 21 who have normal Pap smears may only need the test once every 3 years.
Female Reproductive System
Pap smear procedure
The speculum is inserted into the vagina. Two samples of the cervix cells are taken by rubbing the surface of the cervix.
The collected cells are preserved and sent to a lab for analysis.
Other screenings
Depending on your personal health needs, the health care provider may perform other screenings, such as a urinalysis (if you have symptoms of a UTI), wet mount (test for a yeast infection), blood testing, or a rectal exam.
Preparing for a pelvic exam
A pelvic exam does not take long and should not be painful. If you experience any pain, let the health care provider know.
The more relaxed you are, the more comfortable the exam will be. Taking deep breaths, talking to the health care provider, and telling yourself to consciously relax are all ways to prepare for your pelvic exam. After the Exam
The provider will leave the room and allow you to get dressed. If you have a Pap test, some of the very thin tissue on the cervix can be broken, causing some mild spotting/bleeding. Talk to the provider about any questions that you may have. How do I get my results?
Some lab work may be performed here and results will be given to you before you leave. Other tests have to be sent to an outside lab. You will be sent a confidential notification via our secure messaging system. An email will come to your ECU email letting you know your results have returned and how to log on to your
“Online Student Health” account. If any of your tests are abnormal, you will be advised to schedule an appointment with a provider to discuss the results. COST AND INSURANCE
Cost will depend on what type of exam and tests you have performed. If you have the Student Health Insurance Plan, or another type of insurance that we accept, ECU Student Health Service will file your claim.
You should always check your insurance coverage and specific policy limitations prior to having your annual exam as every policy differs in coverage allowances.
Insurance limits you to one exam every 365 days. Even if you have it one day early, it can be denied. Be sure to check when your last annual women’s health exam was when you call to schedule.
If we do not accept your insurance coverage, you can request a walk out statement to self file your charges or print one from Online Student Health. Choosing a contraceptive method
How do you know what’s right for you?
Choosing a method of birth control is a highly personal
decision, based on individual preferences, medical history, lifestyle, and other factors. When you choose a method, be sure and find one that fits your individual needs. Pick a method that you are likely to use correctly to guarantee the most effectiveness.
THE PILL (Oral Contraceptives)
Method: Pills taken orally;; hormones are absorbed through the digestive system. How it works: Prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, causing changes in the lining of the uterus, and increasing the natural mucus around the cervix. Correct use: Take them everyday around the same time of day.
Effectiveness for preventing pregnancy:
99% WHEN TAKEN CORRECTLY.
Cost: may be covered at no cost depending on insurance and brand;; check with your insurance carrier
THE PILL (Oral Contraceptives)
Common side effects: May include nausea, headaches, fatigue, minimal weight gain, depression, breast tenderness, decreased sexual drive, and changes in the menstrual cycle.
When to use a backup/alternative contraceptive:
1) For the entire first month of use.
2) If you miss a pill, use a backup method until you start your next new pack of pills. 3) With certain medications. Always consult with your health care provider or pharmacists about possible interactions/reduced effectiveness before you take new medications.
No protection from sexually transmitted infections.
THE PATCH
(Xulane)
Method: Hormones are absorbed transdermally (through the skin).
How it works: Prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, causing changes in the lining of the uterus, and increasing the natural mucus around the cervix.
Correct use: Wear a patch in the abdomen, buttock, or upper back area for 7 days. Replace the patch once a week for 3 weeks. The fourth week-­-­do not wear a patch. Repeat the following month. Alternate patch site to avoid skin irritation.
Effectiveness for preventing pregnancy:
99% WHEN USED CORRECTLY. Cost: dependent on your insurance coverage;; patch is not widely available
THE PATCH
(Xulane)
Common side effects: May include skin irritation, nausea, headaches, fatigue, minimal weight gain, depression, breast tenderness , decreased sexual drive, and changes in the menstrual cycle.
When to use a backup/alternative contraceptive:
1) For the entire first month of use.
2) If the patch comes off or if you do not change it as directed. 3) With certain medications. Always consult with your health care provider or pharmacists about possible interactions/reduced effectiveness before you take new medications.
No protection from sexually transmitted infections.
THE RING
(Nuvaring)
Method: Hormones are absorbed through the vaginal lining.
How it works: Prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, causing changes in the lining of the uterus, and increasing the natural mucus around
the cervix.
Correct use: With fingers, squeeze flexible ring together and insert into the vagina. Guide device with one finger to the upper portion of the vagina. Wear for 3 consecutive weeks and then remove. The fourth week, no ring is worn. Repeat the following month.
Effectiveness for preventing pregnancy:
99% WHEN USED CORRECTLY.
Cost: check with your insurance carrier for pricing information
THE PATCH
(Nuvaring)
Common side effects: May include nausea, headaches, fatigue, minimal weight gain, depression, breast tenderness, decreased sexual drive, and changes in the menstrual cycle.
When to use a backup/alternative contraceptive:
1) For the entire first month of use.
2) If the ring is outside of the vagina for more than 1 hour. 3) With certain medications. Always consult with your health care provider or pharmacists about possible interactions/reduced effectiveness before you take new medications.
No protection from sexually transmitted infections.
THE SHOT (Depo)
Method: Hormones are injected intramuscularly.
How it works: Prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, causing changes in the lining of the uterus, and increasing the natural mucus around the cervix.
Correct use: Keep your appointments! A health care provider will administer the injection once every 12 weeks (4 times a year). The initial injection must be given during the first 5 days of the menstrual period.
Effectiveness for preventing pregnancy:
99% WHEN USED CORRECTLY.
Cost: may be covered at no cost depending on insurance and brand;; check with your insurance carrier
THE SHOT (Depo)
Common side effects: May include nausea, headaches, fatigue, weight gain, depression, breast tenderness, decreased sexual drive, and changes in the menstrual cycle.
Calcium Intake: Use of Depo-­Provera may deplete the amount of calcium absorbed. Talk to your health care provider about increasing calcium in your diet to avoid risk of osteoporosis.
When to use a backup/alternative contraceptive:
1) For the first 48 hours after the initial injection. 2) If you are late for a scheduled injection. No protection from sexually transmitted infections.
80% of users stop having menstrual periods after 6-­12 months of use.
CONDOMS
Method: Disposable latex or polyurethane sheath sold over-­the-­counter without a prescription.
How it works: Fits snugly over the penis;; prevents ejaculatory fluid from coming into contact with a sexual partner. Can also be used with sex toys to prevent STIs.
Effectiveness for preventing pregnancy: 86-­98%, depending on correct and consistent use.
Cost: Call the pharmacy at 328-­6841 for pricing
Possible side effects: Allergies to latex or spermicide found on condoms may cause irritation. If this occurs, try polyurethane condoms or a condom without spermicide.
Condoms provide increased protection from sexually transmitted infections. Condoms can also be used in conjunction with hormonal methods to increase protection from pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
“MALE” CONDOMS
Correct use:
1) Store condoms at room temperature. Keep away from heat!
2) Use caution when opening the condom package, particularly with fingernails. Scissors and teeth should not be used to gain entry to the package. 3) Make sure that the condom is properly lubricated before and during intercourse. If it becomes too dry, it may break. Use a water-­based lubricant (like KY Jelly or Astroglide) for additional lubrication. Never use massage oil, Vaseline, or anything oil-­based to lubricate a condom. 4) Pinch a ½ inch tip at the end, allowing room for ejaculatory fluid. Place the condom on the erect penis. Roll the condom all the way down. 5) After intercourse, remove the condom before the erection is lost. Hold the condom at the base when withdrawing to prevent the condom from slipping off inside. If the condom breaks: Immediately stop intercourse and insert an over-­the-­
counter spermicide. Contact a health care provider about emergency contraceptive options.
“FEMALE” CONDOMS
Method: Disposable polyurethane sheath containing two flexible rings sold over-­the-­counter without a prescription.
How it works: Fits inside of the vagina;; prevents ejaculatory fluid from coming into contact with a sexual partner.
Effectiveness for preventing pregnancy: 79-­97%, depending on correct and consistent use.
Cost: Female condoms are not available at the SHS pharmacy but you can contact an outside pharmacy to see if they carry them.
Possible side effects: Rare reaction to polyurethane. Trapped air can create a noise effect during intercourse. If this occurs, add lubrication.
Female condoms provide increased protection from sexually transmitted infections. Condoms can be used in conjunction with hormonal methods to increase protection from pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.
FEMALE CONDOMS
Correct use:
1) Use caution when opening the condom package, particularly with fingernails. Scissors and teeth should not be used to gain entry to the package. 2) The condom should be lubricated when taken out of the package. A small bottle of extra lubrication which may be applied before or during intercourse.
3) The female condom contains two rings. Pinch the ring on the inside of the pouch together and guide the condom into the vagina, placing it
as far back into the vagina as it will go. This inner ring serves as an internal anchor to help the condom keep its placement in the vagina. The outer ring of the female condom serves as the opening. Read additional instructions for insertion on the package.
4) Never use a male and female condom at the same time.
If the condom breaks: Immediately stop intercourse and insert an over-­the-­counter spermicide. Contact a health care provider about emergency contraceptive options. DENTAL DAMS
Dental dams are thin squares of latex that can be placed as a barrier when having oral sex. They help prevent transmission of STIs by covering the skin.
Dental dams are sold in sex shops, some pharmacies, and online, but they can also easily be made from a latex condom.
SPERMICIDES
Method: May be in the form of foams, jellies/gels, suppositories, sponge, or dissolving film.
How it works: Chemically kills sperm to prevents ejaculatory fluid from reaching the upper reproductive system.
Effectiveness for preventing pregnancy: 74-­94%, depending on correct and consistent use. Spermicides are most effective when used in conjunction with barrier methods.
Cost: Price varies, depending on method of spermicide. Not carried at SHS Pharmacy but local retail pharmacies have it available.
Possible side effects: Skin irritation from reaction to chemical spermicidal product.
No protection from sexually transmitted infections. A recent study suggested that spermicides may irritate sensitive genital lining, creating an opening for viruses and bacteria to enter the body and increasing possible risk of transmission. SPERMICIDES
Correct Use: Varies, depending on the method of spermicide used. Follow instructions on the package exactly. Each type of spermicide varies in terms of how it is applied to the vagina, and when contraceptive protection begins. 1) Be sure to use the correct amount of spermicide. A common error is to use too little spermicide. 2) With some methods, there is a brief waiting period that users should observe after inserting before engaging in intercourse. 3) Some methods may need to be “re-­applied” after a certain amount of time has passed, whether intercourse is “finished” or not. 4) An additional application of spermicide is needed each time intercourse is repeated.
THE DIAPHRAGM
Method: A dome-­shaped latex cup with a flexible rim around the edge that is inserted inside of the vagina during intercourse. A spermicidal jelly should ALWAYS be used with the diaphragm.
How it works: Serves as a barrier method, preventing sperm from entering the upper reproductive system while spermicide kills sperm.
Effectiveness for preventing pregnancy: 80-­94%, depending on correct and consistent use. Cost: check with your insurance carrier for pricing information
Possible side effects: Allergies to the latex material or skin irritation from reaction to chemical spermicidal product.
No protection from sexually transmitted infections. A recent study suggested that spermicides (which are used with the diaphragm) may irritate sensitive genital lining, creating an opening for viruses and bacteria to enter the body and increasing possible risk of transmission. THE DIAPHRAGM (Insertion)
Correct Use: One of the most important things to know about the diaphragm is that it is NOT effective without a spermicide.
1) Wash hands. Check the diaphragm before insertion to make sure there are no holes or tears.
2) Hold the diaphragm with the dome down like a cup. Apply about 1 teaspoon of spermicide (jelly or cream) into the dome and spread some
around the rim with your finger. Do not use oil-­based lubricants such as baby oil,mineral oil, or vaginal medications for infections. 3) Using the fingers to squeeze the flexible ring together, insert the diaphragm into the vagina. The spermicide that is inside the dome should be facing your cervix. Once the diaphragm is correctly in place, women should not be able to feel it.
THE DIAPHRAGM (After Intercourse)
Check the position of the diaphragm, using your finger to be sure the diaphragm is still in place. If it has been dislodged, you may want to contact your health care provider.
Leave the diaphragm in place for at least 6 hours after the last act of intercourse. Diaphragms should not be left in place for longer than 24 hours, however;; leaving the diaphragm for a longer period of time increases
risk for toxic shock syndrome. Remove by inserting your finger into the vagina, feeling for the rim of the diaphragm, and pulling the device out.
The diaphragm should not interfere with normal activities.
Using plain soap, wash the spermicide applicator and the diaphragm. Place the diaphragm in its convenient case and store in a cool dry place. Douching is not recommended.
THE IMPLANT (Nexplanon)
Method: A flexible rod (about the size of a matchstick) is inserted under the skin in the upper arm that provides pregnancy prevention for 3 years. The implant available now is called Nexplanon.
How it works: It releases a steady low dose of hormones to thicken cervical mucus and thin the lining of the uterus. It also typically suppresses ovulation.
Effectiveness for preventing pregnancy: Less than 0.5% failure rate.
Cost: Contact your insurance carrier for pricing information
Possible side effects: changes in bleeding patterns, nausea, headaches, decreased libido, mood swings
No protection from sexually transmitted infections.
THE IMPLANT
(Nexplanon)
Once inserted, there is no daily maintence or need interupt sex to have pregnancy prevention.
Can be easily removed anytime by a health care provider.
Quick return of fertility if a patient desires to remove the implant and become pregnant.
You will need to have a “consult” appointment with a provider prior to having Nexplanon inserted;; this appointment allows the provider to discuss the method with you, assess any contraindications, and then order your Nexplanon.
You will then return once the implant has been received by SHS. You will need to have it inserted while on your period and a pregnancy test will be required prior to insertion of the implant.
Procedure to insert takes about 15 minutes and uses local anesthetic;; a bandage is placed over the site and patients can expect healing of the insertion site in 3-­5 days.
THE IUD (Intrauterine Device)
Method: an IUD is a small, “T” shaped device inserted into a woman’s uterus to prevent pregnancy.
How it works: There are 2 types of IUDs in the US: hormonal (Mirena/Skyla) and copper (ParaGard). Both types work by affecting the way sperm move so they cannot join with an egg. Also, hormonal IUDs may prevent the egg from even leaving the ovary and may thicken cervical mucus to help block sperm travel.
Effectiveness for preventing pregnancy: Greater than 99% effective.
Cost: Contact your insurance carrier for pricing information.
Possible side effects: discomfort with insertion of device, cramping immediately after insertion of device, changes in bleeding patterns or spotting between periods.
No protection from sexually transmitted infections.
THE IUD
Once inserted, there is no need interupt sex to have pregnancy prevention.
Can be easily removed anytime by a health care provider.
Quick return of fertility if a patient desires to remove the IUD and become pregnant.
You will need to have a “consult” appointment with a provider prior to having an IUD inserted;; this appointment allows the provider to discuss the method with you, assess any contraindications, and then order your device.
You will then return once the device has been received by SHS. You will need to have it inserted while on your period and a pregnancy test will be required prior to insertion.
Procedure to insert takes about 30 minutes;; you may experience some light cramping and discomfort during the insertion of the device.
Depending on the device, protection may last from 3 years (Skyla) to 5 years (Mirena) to 12 years (ParaGard)
OTHER METHODS OF CONTRACEPTION
Natural Family Planning/Fertility Awareness
Sterility (Vasectomy and Tubal Ligation)
For more information about these methods, contact the ECU Student Health Service at (252) 328-­6841 or submit any questions to GotQuestions @ecu.edu.
EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION
Method: Pills taken orally;; hormones are absorbed through the digestive system. How it works: Also known as the “morning after pill, it prevents a fertilized egg from implanting into the uterus lining. Emergency contraception is used after unprotected sexual intercourse, but before a woman becomes pregnant. This is a follow-­up method used when contraception has failed or has not been used and because it has a lower effectiveness rate than many contraceptive methods, it should not be used as a long-­term birth control method. Emergency contraceptive pills keep a pregnancy from occurring by inhibiting ovulation (release of an egg), inhibiting a fertilized egg from implanting into the uterus, and/or interfering with the process of the fertilized egg passing through the fallopian tubes.
EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION
Time Limit: Emergency contraceptive is not effective once an egg has implanted. For this reason, it must be taken soon after intercourse. It is recommended that emergency contraception be used within 72 hours after intercourse. (It can be used up to 120 hours, but the sooner it is used, the more effective it is for preventing pregnancy.)
Correct use: Take as directed by the health care provider. Effectiveness for preventing pregnancy:
75-­89% WHEN USED CORRECTLY.
Possible Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting, headaches, breast tenderness, dizziness, fluid retention. If vomiting occurs within two hours after taking a dose, contact your health care provider.
Cost: Call the pharmacy at 328-­6841 for exact pricing.
Pregnancy testing
The ECU Student Health Service can provide pregnancy testing. You can request a pregnancy test or the provider may feel you need one based upon symptoms or the date of your last menstrual period.
SEXUAL VIOLENCE AND PERSONAL SAFETY
Personal safety is one of the most important aspects of health. Whether it is relationship violence, an assault that occurs, bullying, or some other issue that threatens your personal safety, Student Health Services (SHS) wants you to know that resources are available on campus to help you. Who can help?
Ø ECU Police can be reached by calling 911 for emergencies, or (252) Ø
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328-­6787 for non-­emergency calls. The Center for Counseling and Student Development, (252) 328-­6661
Office of the Victims Advocate, (252) 737-­1466
Dean of Students, (252) 328-­9297, or by visiting ECU CARES
our office at Student Health Services, (252) 328-­6841
NO MEANS NO
Know that rape and sexual assault ARE NEVER THE VICTIM'S FAULT. No matter where or how it happens.
SHS has trained forensic nurse examiners on staff that can assist victims of sexual assault. We can provide information, appropriate testing for health concerns related to the assault, and can also collect evidence kits during our normal business
hours. Sexual assault and abuse is any type of sexual activity that you do not agree to, including:
Inappropriate touching
Vaginal, anal, or oral penetration
Sexual intercourse that you say no to
Rape
Attempted rape
Get to a safe place, call 911 or a trusted family member or friend. If on campus, remember the blue light emergency stations on campus that link immediately to police.
Preserve evidence. Try not to eat, drink, or smoke. Do not bathe or shower. Evidence of the rape would literally be washed away. Keep all clothing from the rape. SHS can collect rape kits during normal business hours, or go to Vidant Medical Center's Emergency Department.
Bruises, cuts, and sexually transmitted infections may all be of medical concern. Seek treatment with a medical provider, even if you do not want evidence collected.
UNSAFE RELATIONSHIPS
taken from http://www.ncadv.org/need-­help/what-­is-­domestic-­violence
Physical and sexual assaults, or threats to commit them, are the most apparent forms of domestic violence and are usually the actions that make others aware of the problem. It is important to note that domestic violence does not always manifest as physical abuse. Emotional and psychological abuse can often be just as extreme as physical violence. Lack of physical violence does not mean the abuser is any less dangerous to the victim, nor does it mean the victim is any less trapped by the abuse.
The frequency and severity of domestic violence can vary dramatically;; however, the one constant component of domestic violence is one partner’s consistent efforts to maintain power and control over the other.
Are you in an unsafe relationship? There is help available. Reach out. Ø
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ECU Police can be reached by calling 911 for emergencies, or (252) 328-­6787 for non-­emergency calls. The Center for Counseling and Student Development, (252) 328-­6661
Office of the Victims Advocate, (252) 737-­1466
Dean of Students, (252) 328-­9297, or by visiting ECU CARES
our office at Student Health Services, (252) 328-­6841
STAY SAFE
Ways to reduce your chance of being a victim (from www.womenshealth.gov): Be aware of your surroundings — who’s out there and what’s going on.
Walk with confidence. The more confident you look, the stronger you appear.
Know your limits when it comes to using alcohol and other mind altering substances.
Be assertive — don’t let anyone violate your space.
Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in your surroundings, leave.
Don’t prop open self-­locking doors.
Lock your door and your windows, even if you leave for just a few minutes.
Watch your keys. Don’t lend them. Don’t leave them. Don’t lose them. And don’t put your name and address on the key ring.
Watch out for unwanted visitors. Know who’s on the other side of the door before you open it.
Be wary of isolated spots, like underground garages, offices after business hours, and apartment laundry rooms.
Avoid walking or jogging alone, especially at night. Vary your route. Stay in well-­traveled, well-­lit areas.
Have your key ready to use before you reach the door — home, car, or work.
Park in well-­lit areas and lock the car, even if you’ll only be gone a few minutes.
Drive on well-­traveled streets, with doors and windows locked.
Never hitchhike or pick up a hitchhiker.
Please test your knowledge on the following questions.
True or False.
You should do a breast self-­exam once a month.
THIS IS TRUE.
Every woman should perform a breast self exam at least once a month. The best time to do the breast exam is the week following the menstrual cycle. If you find any changes, particularly hardening of the tissue or lumps, see a health care provider as soon as possible. True or False
The Pap smear is a screening test which checks for abnormalities of the cervical cells.
THIS IS TRUE.
The Pap smear procedure takes a sample of the cervix cells which can be examined for abnormalities. Because these screenings can even detect pre-­cancerous cells and signal the need for treatment, the number of cervical cancers has drastically decreased in the U.S. True or False
You will be tested for sexually transmitted infections during your annual GYN exam. THIS IS TRUE.
There are reportedly more than 25 STI’s;; therefore, will not be tested for “all” STI’s at your appointment. However, we routinely test for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and HIV.
If the provider feels any other tests are indicated based on your symptoms or risk factors, you may be advised to have more STI testing.
True or False
You should choose a method of contraception based on your personal needs and lifestyle. THIS IS TRUE.
Use a contraceptive method that you will be comfortable with, and that you will use correctly and consistently. For example, if you are forgetful about taking medications, “the pill” may not be the best option for you. Consider all of your options before making a decision on which contraceptive is best for you and your body.
True or False
HPV vaccines protect against ALL strains of HPV. THIS IS FALSE.
Several strains have been selected for the vaccines for because they cause approximately 70% of cervical cancers and 90% of genital warts. With the vaccine not covering all types, it is important for women to continue getting screened for cervical cancer (regular Pap tests) and to use protection with intercourse. True or False
Emergency contraception must be used within 48 hours after intercourse for it to be effective.
THIS IS FALSE.
Emergency contraception must be taken as soon as possible after intercourse. It is recommended that emergency contraception be used within a 72 hour span after intercourse. It can be used up to 120 hours, but the sooner it is used, the more effective it is for preventing pregnancy.
YOU’RE ALMOST DONE!
Please click button below and complete form to alert ECU Student Health Service
that you have completed this requirement. Health Class Completion Form
After you submit this information, you may then call 328-­6841 to schedule your appointment. Let the person you speak with know that you have completed the online class. If you have questions about the exam, contraceptive methods, or other sexuality/reproductive health concerns, you can email your questions anonymously to: [email protected]