You CAN Ask That
Make informed decisions that are right for you and your lifestyle.
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.
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.
Do you have more questions about sexual health?
You can ask that. Whether it’s about contraception, STIs, pregnancy or your general health, you can email askanurse@deakin.edu.au for free, confidential advice from a Deakin nurse. No question is too small or awkward – and there’s no need to book an appointment.
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.
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Deakin Medical Centre
Accessible and confidential medical services for students, provided by qualified and experienced medical doctors and nurses.
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Discover DUSA safe spaces
Safe, supportive environments including queer rooms, women’s rooms with pads, tampons and condoms, plus a range of welfare services.
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Safer Community
Deakin’s central support service for reporting sexual harm or family violence, with trained staff to assist anyone affected by sexual harm.
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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
- Melbourne Sexual Health Centre
- 1800RESPECT
- ReachOut
- Jean Hailes for Women's Health
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.
ReachOut: Straight-up info on sex, consent, relationships and sexual health — plus answers to tricky questions you might not want to ask out loud.
Jean Hailes for Women's Health: Jean Hailes for Women's Health is a national not-for-profit organisation dedicated to improving women's health across Australia through every life stage.
You may also be interested in
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Consent
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 and unintended pregnancy
Family planning is about making informed decisions about your reproductive and sexual health and wellbeing.
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Sexuality and relationships
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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Healthy romantic relationships
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?