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Reproductive Health
Reproductive Health
How Can I Find Out if My Partner Has an STD?
You can go to our School-Based Health Center, your doctor’s office or a health clinic like Planned Parenthood for STD testing. Getting checked is easy, and some places offer free or low-cost testing and treatment. Plus, you can get tips on how to help prevent STDs, like using condoms or other barrier methods like dental dams or finger condoms every time you have sex. Doctors can also talk with you about types of birth control to use along with condoms and how to avoid accidental pregnancy.
Body Image
Body Image
It's normal for guys to have one testicle a bit bigger than the other. A normal size difference is about the size of half a teaspoon, and usually the right testicle is larger than the left. If one testicle is just a little bigger than the other, you can ask your doctor about it at your next checkup. But call your doctor right away if your testicles ever hurt, or if you ever notice a lump or bump in or near your testicles. It’s a good idea to check your testicles every month so you’re familiar with their normal size and shape. This way if something changes, you will know it and can talk to your doctor about it.
Food & Nutrition
Food & Nutrition
What Can I Do About Overeating?
The first thing is to figure out if your overeating is something that happens only once in a while or often. We all eat too much every now and then, like on holidays. But if you're overeating often, here are some things that might help: Don’t skip meals. You are more likely to overeat when you are super hungry. Schedule 3 meals and 1 healthy snack a day to help manage your hunger. Put your food on a plate or in a bowl and sit down at the table to eat — don't eat out of a bag or container. Don't eat meals or snack while doing something else, like being on your phone, watching TV, or doing homework. Slow down. Eating more slowly can help because it takes about 20 minutes for your brain to get the message that you are full. Sometimes taking a break before going for seconds can keep you from eating too much.
Doctors, Hospitals, & Medicine
Doctors, Hospitals, & Medicine
If you want to talk privately with your doctor about sensitive topics like sex or STDs, you have options. You can ask your parents for one-on-one time, call the doctor’s office ahead of your visit, or ask the front desk when you arrive. You can also schedule a confidential appointment at the District 207 School-Based Health Center if you have any concerns. Taking charge of your health helps you feel more comfortable and informed.
Fitness
Fitness
Should I Exercise if I Feel Sore?
If you're sore after a workout, it's best to take it easy the next day with light activity like walking or stretching. Rest sore muscles, especially if you're doing weight training—alternate between upper and lower body workouts to allow recovery. Use ice, ibuprofen, massage, or a warm bath for relief. Always warm up and cool down. If pain is intense, happens during exercise, or doesn't improve after a few days, see a doctor—it could be an injury.
Hygiene
Hygiene
Can I Wear the Same Pad All Day?
It's not a good idea to go an entire school day without changing pads, pantiliners, or tampons. No matter how light your flow is, or even if there is no flow, bacteria can build up. Changing your pad every 3 or 4 hours (more if your period is heavy) is good hygiene and helps prevent bad odors. This is especially true if you'll be playing sports or rushing around from class to class. Changing pads often also helps prevent accidental leaks. If your period suddenly gets heavier when you least expect it, you'll be wearing a fresh pad that can absorb the extra flow.
Friends & Relationships
Friends & Relationships
Talking to a friend about unprotected sex can be hard, but it shows you care. Start by finding a private place to chat and let them know you’re concerned after reading reliable info about STDs. Remind them that some STDs have no symptoms, so partners might not know they’re infected. Even with birth control like the Pill, using condoms is important to prevent STDs. Encourage them to talk to a health care provider or visit a clinic like Planned Parenthood for testing and birth control options. You're not judging—just looking out for their health. Supporting them shows you're a great friend.
Parents & Family
Parents & Family
How Can I Talk to My Parents About Sex, Relationships, or My Health?
Talking to your parents about personal topics can be tough—especially if your family or culture doesn’t usually discuss these things. Try starting the conversation during a quiet moment and be honest. You might say, “This is hard to talk about, but I want to make smart, safe choices and I’d really value your support.” If your parents have strong cultural or religious views, you can acknowledge that: “I know we don’t usually talk about this, but I want to learn and make good decisions.” If it feels too uncomfortable or your parents aren’t open to the conversation, talk to another trusted adult, school counselor, or doctor. There are also clinics and resources that offer help while respecting your background and privacy.
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