Sexual health services, behaviours, and substance use among undergraduate students at an eastern Canadian university between 2012 and 2021

Abstract

Sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing health services, sexual behaviours, and substance use are all key parts of maintaining sexual health for undergraduate students. The author compares results on these factors from the 2012 Maritime Undergraduate Student Sexual Health Services Survey with those from a 2021 survey at one of the universities that was included in the original survey. Noteworthy changes in context between 2012 and 2021 include the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2018 legalization of cannabis. Findings indicate that while rates of binge drinking, peer perceptions of sexual activity while using substances, and condom use during sexual activity remained stable, rates of STI testing and cannabis use increased. Recommendations include increasing comprehensive, peer-led sexual education initiatives to continue to reduce stigma while educating students on sexually transmitted infections and substance use during sexual activity.