Leaving home for the first time, whether to attend university, start a new job or move to a different city, can be both exciting and overwhelming. In the whirlwind of moving, newly found independence, new social relationships and academic or professional responsibilities, sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is often overlooked. However, SRH is an important component of independence and self-care, and requires awareness, preparation and the confidence to access care.

Accessing healthcare

Many young persons in Sri Lanka move to Colombo or travel abroad to countries like Australia, the United Kingdom and India, for higher education or work. This is often their first taste of independence. The shift from a familiar environment to a new city or country means navigating new cultures, making new choices and navigating new healthcare systems, all without immediate support of loved ones.

Accessing a new healthcare system is one of the biggest challenges when moving away from home, especially when trying to access SRH services.

Here’s a few practical tips to help:

1. Before moving, research available clinics, helplines, and online resources in your new city.
    
2. Save emergency numbers for healthcare services in your new city.
    
3. Familiarize yourself with how prescriptions and appointments work.
    
4. Universities often have student health centers which offer free or subsidized healthcare, including SRH services. Get registered at your student health center.
    
5. In case you have urgent or emergency needs, organizations like the Family Planning Association of Sri Lanka can provide online consultations.

Contraception and protection

Contraception may not be your primary concern during a major move; however, circumstances may change, and it is important that you take charge of your own sexual health. Remember, contraception is primarily about preventing an unintended pregnancy and giving you greater control over your reproductive choices. Condoms also help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), making them an important part of safer sex.

Also remember that the stress of moving can also affect menstrual cycles, and it may take a few months for your cycles to become regular.

Here are a few practical tips to help:

1. If in a new or casual relationship, always use a condom. Condoms act as a barrier, protecting against unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. They are easy to use and can usually be easily bought in pharmacies and supermarkets.
    
2. If sexually active, it may be beneficial to discuss your contraceptive options with a healthcare professional before moving. Long-acting methods like the subdermal contraceptive implant or intrauterine devices may be convenient if busy and can be inserted prior to moving.
    
3. If you use the contraceptive pill, check the requirements in the country you are moving to, as prescription requirements, availability and access to contraceptive services may vary between countries.

Emotional well-being

Sexual health is closely tied to emotional well-being. Moving away from home can bring about feelings of loneliness, anxiety and even confusion about relationships. It can also be daunting when living independently to make decisions about intimacy and relationships.

Here are a few practical tips to help:

1. Understand consent and respect boundaries.
    
2. Seek counselling services when needed. Most universities and workplaces offer free or subsidized counselling services.
    
3. In case you have urgent or emergency needs, organizations like the Family Planning Association of Sri Lanka can provide online psychological consultations.
    
4. Peer support groups: Joining student societies or community groups can help normalize conversations about SRH and reduce stigma.

Moving away from home is a milestone that brings freedom and responsibility. Managing SRH in this new phase of life is not just about avoiding risks; it’s about embracing empowerment, making informed choices and ensuring your well-being. Whether you are a student in Colombo, a professional in another Sri Lanka city, or studying abroad, SRH will help you thrive personally and academically.

If you plan to move away from home and would like to speak to a healthcare professional about reproductive health or emotional well-being, please contact Bloom Medical Clinic or the Alokaya Counselling Centre at the Family Planning Association of Sri Lanka on +94 779895252.