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 or can make people feel uncomfortable 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 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.
2023 events
Got a question about sex and sexual health? You CAN Ask That
As part of the You CAN Ask That campaign, Deakin has 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.
Watch our mini web series to find answers to common questions like these and if you have more questions, our nurses at Deakin Medical Centre are always on hand at askanurse@deakin.edu.au or you can book an appointment.
Note: The below videos contain sexual health and medical information to assist with increased knowledge about sex and sexual health.
What is sexual health?
Sexual health is not just about the absence of disease but also the opportunity for pleasure, respect for each other’s sexual rights and human rights, and upholding safe, respectful experiences and environments.
Sexually transmissible infections (STIs)
Sexually transmissible infections 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 and focus on enjoying the experience.
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 have a free and confidential sexual health check at a Deakin Medical Centre – ask about contraception; get screened and treated for an STI; and access pregnancy counselling, support and referrals. You’ll be in a safe space where you can ask questions and make informed decisions that are right for you.
Find information and resources about sex, relationships and sexual health on Bupa Healthlink.
There’s also a range of community organisations with fantastic websites full of resources and advice on sex and relationships, in English and other languages. Sexual Health Victoria’s website and YouTube channel have heaps of sexual health info. 1800 my options (1800 696 784) is also a great go-to for information about contraception, pregnancy options and sexual health in Victoria. You can find other great resources at ReachOut.com and the Melbourne Sexual Health Centre.
If you have personal questions or are seeking general advice about your psychological and emotional wellbeing, you can make a free appointment with a qualified Deakin counsellor. You could also try Ask Counselling, our online counselling service for students, or download the DeakinWELLBEING app.
Safer Community is Deakin’s central point of contact for reports and disclosures of sexual harm and family violence. Our staff are trained to support anyone who has experienced sexual harm.
If you or someone you know is impacted by sexual harm or family violence, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Deakin’s Safer Community service. In an emergency, call Triple Zero (000).
More resources
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We encourage you to complete a short online module that includes topics like the importance of consent and what makes a healthy relationship.
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Safe, supportive environments including queer rooms, women's rooms with pads, tampons and condoms, plus a range of welfare services.
You may also be interested in
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Sex without consent is considered sexual assault and is against the law. So it is important for you to know just what ‘consent’ means.
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Family planning is about making informed decisions about your reproductive and sexual health and wellbeing.
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There’s no right or wrong when it comes to sexuality; your sexuality – who you are attracted to – is your business and comes down to what feels right for you.
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People who have healthy romantic relationships are more likely to feel happier and satisfied with their lives. So, what's healthy and what's not?
