In a recent survey by Trojan Brand Condoms, Ohio University was shown to be deficient when it comes to providing anonymous help for sexual health questions. However, the Student Health Services Web site, which OU officials had concerns about in the past, received a perfect score. When it was all said and done, OU got a 'B' average from Trojan Condoms. It is important to question the motivation of the survey, as Trojan benefits from any marketing gimmick with its name attached. But regardless, the survey did bring some good ideas to light.
An anonymous advice phone line is a great idea. Students need to feel like they can ask questions without the fear of judgment. But how would the suggested phone line be staffed? Right now, students are encouraged simply to e-mail members of health promotions. Surely a few nurses at Hudson would be willing to help answer anonymous student questions. It would be nice to get a sexual health expert to help with student problems.
Sexual health issues are extremely important. There are 65 million Americans with incurable sexual infections, according to Trojan. And with the stereotypical college experience sometimes boiling down to how much drinking one can do and how much sex one can have, being aware of proper sexual health is important.
The Trojan survey may not be perfectly scientific or nobly motivated, but it reminds us of what more OU can do to keep students sexually safe.
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Tip line good in theory but difficult to execute
