The weekly “Let’s talk about sex” series will look into a different topic about sex and sexuality in an effort to raise awareness, bring education and be a forum for discussion. To write in and share your opinions and stories, email mast@plu.edu
The Pacific Lutheran University campus is sexually congested.
It’s funny to hear students whispering about sex without knowing the basics about initiating and sustaining a sexual relationship with someone they find attractive.
The only thing on campus that comes remotely close to being semi-adequate sex-ed for young adult students is PLU’s Sex+ series.
Sex discussion and education is vital. Between 1991 and 2004, the U.S. teen birth rate fell from 62 to 41 per every 1,000 female teens. That drop in teen pregnancies can be attributed to education and contraception, according to the 2005 Vital Statistics Reports.
The same goes for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). There’s a clear correlation between sexual education and sexual health, according to other journals –– here are a few: Perspectives on Reproductive & Sexual Health (2004), Washington D.C.’s National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, Family Health International, Journal of Adolescent Health and the Committee on HIV Prevention in the United States.
In light of the millions (maybe billions?) of pages of research on this topic, it’s clear: education is key.
Sex+ is a series of panels and lectures that take place during the school year. Students and faculty are invited to Sex+ to discuss sex and sexuality. “Sexperts” lecture and sit on panels to help facilitate and educate.
The panelists offer insight into various sexual practices and ways to safely practice them. This is a safe, open space to come with any questions you have.
I found it interesting to witness a Sex+ event and to see how intrigued and curious some PLU students are about sex. Students offered questions that we all wonder but don’t want to ask.
Last year, one Sex+ event centered on the topic of BDSM/Kink/Fetish. At the end of the event, sex toys and supplies were handed out to students. It was a frenzy. One of my straight, male friends left the event with a pocket vibrator, which he gifted to a female friend!
I wished I could’ve just gone up to the students and told them: this is the type of lube you’d want to use for this form of sex, this is the type of toy you’d probably want to try as your first time sex toy, even preparation/cleaning basics.
Even students can be “sexperts.” I know a small handful of students on campus who have connections to and have dabbled in BDSM, kink and fetish-related activities. But sadly, none are able to tell other students about their sexual experiences.
Students with years of sexual experiences should provide feedback and guidance to the more curious students. Open conversations about sex will foster more sex positivity outside of Sex+ events.
This year, The Mast is dedicating this spot, right here, to answering questions and offering advice from students, faculty and sexperts. Our authors will remain anonymous so they can be open and honest about sexual experiences without fear.
