This week marks the start of the O Week season at tertiary institutions throughout New Zealand.

We know that university students have specific needs when it comes to sexual health and for most new students; the first year of Uni is full of firsts:

• The first time living away from home
• The first time making health appointments
• And for some, the first time drinking alcohol

The focus on our O Week events is to raise awareness about condoms, bust some of the myths around STI testing and treatment and talk about the many contraceptive options available through our clinics.

Here’s the low-down on what Family Planning health promoters will be doing at a campus near you. Our aim is to arm new students with the information they need to play safe and study hard.

Our health promoters are in for a busy few weeks - last year they visited 40 tertiary campuses to give students tips on how to Study Hard, Play Safe and this year is gearing up to be just as busy.

They will be holding stalls at university market days, organising quiz nights and lots of other fun events.

O Weeks are renowned for being big on alcohol. While we don’t want to be the fun police, we do want to make sure you know that alcohol can have a major impact on your sexual safety.

Our health promoters will be sharing top tips for staying safe while drinking. These include:

• Knowing your alcohol limit
• Watching your drink
• Drinking water and eating well 
• Sticking with your friends
• Keeping your phone topped up 
• Making sure you have enough money for a taxi ride home
• Carrying condoms and lube.

Come and visit our stalls and test your sexual health knowledge. We have lots of freebies and prizes to be won so get involved!

To stay in the loop about O Week activities and to find out where our health promoters will be, check out our Facebook page for more information.