Sexual and Reproductive Health

Birth Control and Contraception

Contraception is much more than just condoms. Our providers offer the education you need to help choose the right birth control method for your needs and lifestyle.

The Pill

We provide prescriptions for oral contraceptive pills. For your convenience, we can coordinate with our Nebraska Medicine pharmacies in Omaha to mail your prescription to your home for no additional cost.

Intrauterine Device (IUD)

An IUD is a small, flexible contraceptive device that is inserted into the uterus. We provide prescriptions for IUDs, such as Mirena, Skyla, and more, and offer referrals to community resources that can insert it for you. Our medical experts can assist you if you develop IUD complications or need an IUD removed.

The Implant

The implant, sometimes referred to as Nexplanon, is small, thin, and flexible and can be placed discreetly under the skin of your inner upper arm. We can prescribe, insert and remove implants at the health center.

Annual Gynecological and Sexual Health Exams

Taking care of your sexual and reproductive health begins with getting to know your body and getting regular gynecological or sexual health exams. Learn more about physical exams.

HPV Vaccine

The human papillomavirus vaccine protects against cancers caused by HPV infection. HPV is a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause anal, cervical, back of throat (oropharynx), vaginal and vulvar cancers, as well as genital warts. The HPV vaccine is available by appointment at the UNO Health Center.

Treatment for Pelvic Pain, Infections, and Other Concerns

Sexual and reproductive health concerns can vary widely from person to person. Our health care providers help with a variety of issues, including:

• Unexplained abdominal and pelvic pain
• Urinary incontinence (urine leakage during physical acts such as coughing or sneezing)
• Vaginal and urinary tract infections
• Menstrual problems such as painful periods and irregular bleeding
• PCOS, endometriosis, and uterine fibroids
• Sexually transmitted infections
• Erectile dysfunction
• Hormone imbalances
• Hair loss
• Acne

We also provide treatment and evaluation of abnormal pap tests. If you have an abnormal pap test, we may recommend a colposcopy, a procedure to closely examine the cervix, vagina, and vulva for signs of disease.

Pregnancy Testing and Referrals

We offer serum and urine pregnancy tests at the UNO Health Center by appointment. Patients with positive test results will be informed of available pregnancy care options.

The UNO Health Center does not provide obstetric, abortion, or family planning services, but we can refer patients to community resources to assist their needs.

Resources

• All-Options Talkline: a trusted resource for pregnancy options, counseling, and support before, during, and after pregnancy, parenting, abortion, adoption, pregnancy loss, infertility, and every experience in between. The talk advocates answer these calls and provide each individual with compassionate listening, resources, and references. You can call their toll-free number 1.888.493.0092.

PrEP and PEP

PrEP

Pre-exposure prophylaxis, or PrEP, is a daily medicine that can stop HIV from replicating inside the body. It is prescribed for HIV-negative individuals who are at ongoing higher risk of getting HIV.

PrEP may be a good fit for you if you have had anal or vaginal sex in the past six months AND 1) have a sexual partner with HIV or 2) do not use condoms consistently. It may also be a good fit if you use injection drugs AND 1) have an injection partner with HIV or 2) share needles, syringes, or other supplies.

Truvada and Descovy are the two PrEP medication options available at this time. Different factors may affect which prescription is a better fit for your needs. Talk to a health center provider for more information.

PEP

Post-exposure prophylaxis, or PEP, is a medicine prescribed by a health care provider in emergency situations after a person has potentially been exposed to HIV. Some examples of when PEP may be right for you include:

• After unprotected sex (for example, if the condom broke)
• After sharing needles, syringes or other equipment to inject drugs
• If you have been sexually assaulted

PEP must be started within 72 hours after a possible exposure to HIV to be effective. The sooner you start PEP, the better. If you are prescribed PEP, you must take it daily for the next 28 days.

PEP is not a substitute for regular use of other HIV prevention. If you are at ongoing high risk for HIV, PrEP may be a good fit for you.

Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing

Anyone who is sexually active should get tested for STIs and HIV at least once a year and/or with each new partner.

Most STIs have no symptoms, which is why getting tested regularly is the best way to stay safe and catch STIs early. If left untreated, they can cause long-term effects, including infertility.

Common STI tests at the UNO Health Center:

• Chlamydia
• Gonorrhea
• Hepatitis A, B, and C
• Herpes
• HIV
• Syphilis

There is not a single, large test for all STIs. Tests are specific to each infection. Talk to your health care provider about which STI tests you need.

Remember to be honest and open with your provider about your sexual history. They are there to help, not judge you. What you share will help your doctor choose the most appropriate tests for your circumstances so that your testing will not cost more than necessary. Your individual risk factors will determine exactly which tests are most important for you.

Other Resources

Looking to expand your knowledge of sexual and reproductive health? Check out these links:

• Office on Women's Health
• Bedsider
• American Pregnancy Association
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Sexual Health

Appointments

Appointments are required for care. Call 402.554.2374 to schedule.

Cost

Provider ordered chlamydia, gonorrhea and HIV testing are covered by student fees. To determine how much your visit will cost, we recommend contacting your health insurance provider for coverage information.

Patients are responsible for any charges not covered by insurance. Learn more about cost.