
The Science is Still Clear—Vaccines Work
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently made striking changes to its online information about the connection between vaccines and autism that put the agency on the wrong side of science.
“[Girls] have told by society that sex is great but that’s not their experience. They don’t know how to talk about that disconnect, there’s a certain amount of shame that shuts down their voice….for me, sexual empowerment for girls is helping them to find a voice in their sexual relationships.”
In a compelling TED Talk video, nurse practitioner Jane Epstein makes the case that our efforts are sadly lacking with it comes to talking to teen girls and young women. In an episode of ASHA’s podcast with Ms. Epstein, we delve deeper into the topic, discussing not only what to say when talking to girls and young women about sex, but how to help them speak up for themselves.
Jane Epstein is a Yale graduate and a clinician who sees teenagers at a high school-based health clinic where, as part of comprehensive health care, she provides sexual health care including contraception services to teens.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently made striking changes to its online information about the connection between vaccines and autism that put the agency on the wrong side of science.

A new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) warns of rising levels of drug-resistant gonorrhea. The data comes from reported cases of gonorrhea in 12 countries across five WHO regions.

We’ve known for years that the HPV vaccine works. Now new research shows that widespread vaccination even protects those who haven’t gotten the shot. This study proves that it is possible to reach herd immunity for HPV.

A more serious type of mpox may be spreading California. Three people in the state were hospitalized with the virus.

ASHA announces Rebecca (Becca) Karpinski as the Interim President and CEO of ASHA.

HPV is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Still, finding out that you or your partner has it can feel stressful and confusing. It’s normal to have a lot of questions: What does this mean for our health? Did someone cheat? Should we
Just like the people to whom they’re attached, penises come in all shapes and sizes (some would even argue personalities, but that’s beyond our scope here). Condoms come in different shapes and sizes as well, so anyone can find a condom that’s right for them.

The CDC just released STI Surveillance Data for 2024 that show cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis are slowly declining.
ASHA believes that all people have the right to the information and services that will help them to have optimum sexual health. We envision a time when stigma is no longer associated with sexual health and our nation is united in its belief that sexuality is a normal, healthy, and positive aspect of human life.
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