Back-to-school season can feel like there’s a million things to remember—but taking care of your sexual and reproductive health should be on the list, too.
Whether you’re starting high school, heading back to campus, or just trying to survive another semester, here’s your back-to-school health checklist.
1. Know Your Rights
Before you stress about your class schedule, know what you’re entitled to.
In California, young people have the right to comprehensive sex education. Your school’s sex ed should cover important topics like sexual health, relationships, consent, and more.
You also have rights when it comes to healthcare. Depending on the service, California minors can access certain confidential sexual and reproductive health services, including birth control, STI testing and treatment, and pregnancy-related care.
And if you’re pregnant or parenting, you have the right to continue your education. Your health. Your education. Your rights. Know all three.
2. Get Tested
STIs can be transmitted through sexual contact and the most common symptom is no symptom at all. That means you can’t always tell whether you or a partner has an STI just by how you feel. Getting tested is one way to stay informed about your health and it doesn’t have to be a big, scary thing. Need a clinic?
3. Check Your HPV Vaccine Status
The HPV vaccine can help protect against HPV, a very common infection that can cause certain cancers and genital warts. If you haven’t gotten the HPV vaccine yet, it may not be too late. Talk with a healthcare provider about whether you’re eligible and what’s recommended for you.
4. Stock Up on Free Condoms
Between homework, exams, extracurriculars, work, and trying to have a social life, the last thing you need is to realize you’re out of barrier methods when you need them. Condoms can help reduce the risk of STIs and pregnancy when used correctly and consistently. And using our free condom project, you may be able to get them for free.
5. Find a Birth Control Method That Works for You
There isn’t one birth control method that works perfectly for everyone. There are lots of options, and what works for your friend might not be what works for you. Think about what fits your lifestyle, your preferences, and your health. A healthcare provider can help you understand your options and choose a method that works for you. Explore birth control options
6. Do a Relationship Check-In
Back-to-school is also a good time to check in on the people around you.
Ask yourself:
- Do my friends respect my boundaries?
- Can I be myself around them?
- Do I feel supported?
- Does my partner listen when I say no?
- Can we talk openly about boundaries and consent?
- Do I feel safe and respected in my relationships?
Healthy relationships should add to your life not make you feel pressured, controlled, or constantly stressed.
Friendships, family relationships, and romantic relationships can all change over time. It’s okay to create boundaries, have difficult conversations, or step away from relationships that aren’t healthy for you.
Learn about healthy relationships
7. Get the Tips Sent Straight to Your Phone
Want sexual health and relationship tips without having to search for them? Sign up for TeenSource Tips to get quick info about sexual health and more sent directly to your phone.
Text “TeenSource” to 877877 or sign up here.
Your Health Belongs on Your Back-to-School List
You’ve got enough to think about this school year. Your sexual and reproductive health shouldn’t feel like another impossible assignment.