Forum addresses sexuality
JILL MAXBAUER
News Writer
Saint Mary's forum "Contraception: Is it a safe choice? Setting Limits: A Personal Choice," part of the Understanding and Embrac-ing Our Sexuality Series, left students asking the question, "when are we going to talk about contraception?"
Issues surrounding contraception were not discussed until late in the lecture, and students ran out of time to have a full discussion of the issue.
The main topics discussed sexual boundaries and decision making for couples.
"Tonight was about a time when we had a chance to have a really frank discussion about personal decisions," Sister Betty Smoyer said. "The students who came tonight will be more informed to make important decisions from an emotional, spiritual, intellectual and personal perspective."
Many students appeared to enjoy the decision-making exercises, and were able to relate the questions to their personal relationships.
Scenarios included remaining abstinent, setting personal boundaries, and talking openly with a partner.
"It's important to know what you have decided and be able to talk about it," said Kristina Pendley, the assistant director for the Counseling Center. "If you are willing to get naked with someone, you should be able to discuss your sexual decisions with them."
Smoyer agreed on what couples should be able to discuss.
"An awareness of both parties to be responsible for sexual responses and how they are impacting one another is so important to a relationship," said Smoyer.
When contraception finally did enter into the discussion, the leaders of the forum stressed being educated about using an artificial birth control.
"If you decide to use contraceptives, please make sure to look at the side effects they can have on your health," Pendley said.
Smoyer stressed concern over the effects taking artificial birth control can have on a person.
"Contraception appears to take the pressure [of pregnancy] off, but it is a big decision; how it affects your life, physically, spiritually and emotionally are factors to be aware of," said Smoyer.
A fast-paced and opinionated discussion came from the students in attendance.
They stressed wanting to discuss the merits of birth control within a marriage, the effectiveness of certain contraceptives and how to know which form to pick.
But time ran out before these students concerns could be addressed fully. The discussion leaders did stress that there are many services on campus to aid the education of Saint Mary's women about the choices surrounding contraceptives, such as the Counseling Center, Campus Ministry and Health and Wellness.
The next lecture tackles the issue of sexual abuse and will be held on Feb. 6 at 7:30 pm in Stapleton Lounge.
All News Stories for Thursday, January 24, 2002
