August 2021: Issue 8
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Wyoming Health Council contributes to health and well-being for all, where we grow, live, learn, work and play. |
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__Back to School!__
Ready, set, go!
Concerning the sexual and reproductive health of pre-teens, the HPV Vaccine is very important!
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HPV, Human Papillomavirus, is spread by skin to skin contact, so it is often sexually transmitted. Although you can contract HPV without being sexually active! Every year, approximately 19,400 women and 12,100 men are affected by cancers caused by HPV. Some strands of HPV can cause warts, but HPV can also cause cancers such as cervical, vaginal and vulvar cancers, throat cancer, anal cancer and penile cancers. The HPV Vaccine targets some of the most harmful strains and is recommended for pre-teens at the age of 11 or 12, but adults up to age 26 can be vaccinated as well.
It's important for providers, administrators and health care staff to understand the importance of the HPV vaccine and how to speak with clients and parents about the vaccine! Check out this series #HowIReccomend for ideas on how to promote the HPV vaccine!
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In Wyoming, parents, and eligible adults, can reach out to their local health department or Primary Care Provider to ask questions about the HPV Vaccine and schedule an appointment! |
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Body Parts, Sex Ed, STDs, Condoms...Oh My!
Each year as summer draws to a close, teachers, parents, and students alike
all begin their back to school preparations. Whether you are sending your child
off to Pre-K for the first time, readying for classroom for a new set of
students, or attending your freshman year of college, there's a lot to prepare
for! But don't worry! We've got the resources for you at WYHC.ORG!
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It's never too early to start teaching young children about their body parts and consent!
"Research suggests consent-focused sex education can prevent sexual abuse, unplanned pregnancy, and sexually transmitted infections as children grow up and into their sexual identities..."We want to empower them with the words [for their genitals] and empower them with how to assert themselves and understand what body boundaries look like."
Read the article here:
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When sex education is comprehensive, students feel more informed, make safer choices and have healthier outcomes. When students do choose to become sexually active, this results in fewer unplanned pregnancies and more protection against sexually transmitted diseases and infections!
As we know, not all states require medically accurate, comprehensive and inclusive sex education. Luckily parents and teens can call their local Title X clinics to talk to a provider about questions they have or find good sex education resources online!
Check out these sites today and
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When you ask a person about STDs, most could probably tell you about the noticeable signs and symptoms such as, genital itching, unusual discharge, pain or burning when peeing, pain with intercourse, irregular bleeding, sores (lesions) or pain in the pelvic or genital areas. What some may not know is that many STDs do not show symptoms! Teaching pre-teens about safe sex practices and STDs is super important so that they can make informed choices and lead healthy lives.
Here are some more facts!
- You can't always know if you or a partner are infected.
- If found early, many STDs can be treated.
- In Wyoming, your partners can also be treated by your healthcare provider.
- You can always be re-infected.
- STDs can pass from mother to baby during pregnancy and childbirth. It you have, or think you have, an STD, be honest with your health care provider during pregnancy visits.
- Used correctly and consistently, condoms and dental dams can help protect against STD
It's a great idea to encourage regular STD testing at your local Title X!
Looking for free condoms? Many clinics provide them, or KnoWyo will deliver them to your door!
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Does your school have a GSA?
GSA stands for Gay,-Straight Alliance and is part of a comprehensive plan to empower LGBTQ and allied students to foster safer and more inclusive environments in their schools!
The Wyoming GSA Network develops resources for Gay-Straight Alliances to educate their schools and communities.
The Network was also created to connect Gay-Straight Alliances across the state of Wyoming, enabling them to learn from each other and engage in regional and statewide leadership development programs.
Check out their page today and to see if your local school has one!
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At Home HIV Self Test Kits Available! |
The Wyoming Department of Health Communicable Disease Unit (CDU) will be offering at home HIV self test kits!
There will be 2 options for HIV tests; the OraQuick saliva test and an HIV dried blood spot test kit.
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Wyoming Title X Clinic of the Month |
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Looking for sexual and reproductive health care that is affordable around the Cheyenne-Laramie area? Check out the Cheyenne-Laramie County Health Department Family Planning Program!
Call today!
Phone: 307-633-4040
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WYOMING HEALTH COUNCIL
400 East First St, Suite 313
Casper, WY 82601
Call Us: (307) 439-2033
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![Help kids learn that bodies are private [with Scoops & Friends]](https://web-extract.constantcontact.com/v1/thumbnail?url=https://i.ytimg.com/vi/8Zr4sK5Q8BA/hqdefault.jpg)
