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You CAN Ask That

Your sexual experiences are deeply personal and can contribute to your life and wellbeing in amazing ways. But we also know it can be intimidating to talk about sex – you may not have a trusted person you can confide in, or even know how to articulate your questions. That’s OK! It’s natural to feel unsure or uncomfortable sometimes – we rarely always have all the answers.

This is the driving purpose behind Deakin’s ‘You CAN Ask That’ campaign. As part of Deakin’s Student Health Promotion Plan 2023–2025, we want to help educate and empower you to achieve optimal sexual health and wellbeing by making informed decisions that are right for you and your lifestyle.

2025 events

Learn more about sex and sexual health with our mini web series

We've teamed up with Sexual Health Victoria to produce an empowering video series to answer some questions which can sometimes feel awkward to ask. Chrissy Keenan, Sexual Health Educator from Sexual Health Victoria, covers common sex topics based on questions we are hearing from students.

Chrissy goes through what sexual health is, what STIs are and how to prevent and treat them, your choices in contraception, and what your options are if an unintended pregnancy occurs. Whether you’re curious, confused or just want to feel more confident – these videos are for you.

Note: These videos contain sexual health and medical information to help increase your knowledge and confidence around sex and wellbeing.

What is sexual health?

Sexual health is not just about the absence of disease but also the opportunity for pleasure and the respect for each other’s sexual and human rights.

Sexually transmissible infections (STIs)

STIs are common so learn more about the many preventative and management techniques available to protect your health and that of your partners.

Contraception

If you’re not intending to become pregnant through sexual activity, consider the many contraceptive options available to you and your partner so you can relax.

Unintended pregnancy

This video explores what choices and options are available to you in the case of unintended pregnancy, including where you can safely seek help and support.

How to keep looking after your sexual health

We encourage you to book a free and confidential sexual health check at a Deakin Medical Centre. Ask about contraception, get screened and treated for STIs, or access pregnancy counselling, support and referrals — all in a safe, non-judgemental space. Use the links below to book an appointment or explore our other resources and services.

Services at Deakin

Deakin Medical Centre: Accessible and confidential medical services for students, provided by qualified and experienced medical doctors and nurses.

Discover DUSA Safe Spaces: Safe, supportive environments including queer rooms, women’s rooms with pads, tampons and condoms, plus a range of welfare services.

Counselling and psychological support: Experienced psychologists and social workers offer free and confidential counselling support to all students located in Australia.

Online advice with Ask Counselling: Student questions on a range of emotional and psychological issues, answered by our counsellors.

Safer Community: Deakin’s central support service for reporting sexual harm or family violence, with trained staff to assist anyone affected by sexual harm.

DeakinWELLBEING: Develop better ways to manage your stress, improve your resilience and build healthy habits that will assist you to achieve your personal best.

Other resources and support

Sexual Health Victoria: Inclusive reproductive and sexual health care, education, and support — from contraception to pregnancy options and more.

Melbourne Sexual Health Centre: Victoria’s leading provider of free, specialist sexual health services — offering STI testing, treatment, education and expert support.

1800RESPECT: Free, 24/7 confidential counselling and support for anyone impacted by domestic, family or sexual violence.

blua. by BUPA: Articles and advice on sexual health, identity, contraception, and wellbeing — for people of all genders, sexualities and life stages.

Respect, Belong and Thrive at Deakin: A short online module available in DeakinSync that includes topics like the importance of consent and what makes a healthy relationship.

ReachOut: Straight-up info on sex, consent, relationships and sexual health — plus answers to tricky questions you might not want to ask out loud.

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