SEXtember: Here’s to a month dedicated to talking about erm, sex

SEX. It’s a topic we are not comfortable discussing in public. Or in private, for that matter. Find out why, and how you can take part in this discussion (discreetly!) this September SEXtember.

The international student experience often brings the promise of a brand new start. A new season in an unfamiliar environment means new experiences – be it heading to the snow for the first time, making friends from a totally different culture, or even addressing lecturers by first name.

More often than not, sex is not discussed. Especially in Asian families, it is a taboo topic to be brought up grudgingly – and definitely not in a public setting. But it doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen.

Moving to a new country and being in an environment where sex before marriage is acceptable brings new perspectives. Sometimes intellectual curiosity gets the better of us, or raging hormones take over and you end up crossing a line you never thought you ever would.

In partnership with Red Aware, we want to open a dialogue about sex this September Sextember. More specifically, safe sex. Over the next month, you’ll find articles about safe sex in films (or the lack thereof), sexual arousal and how it works, as well as personal stories about sex and shame.

Off the back of this year’s AIDS Conference, we also want to shed light on HIV/AIDS, which remains one of the world’s most significant public health challenges.

Beyond that, we want this to be a two-way conversation. Whether you have a personal story to share want to contribute a story idea, or have a burning question, we are opening up the floor to you.

For those who want to send in your experiences or ask a question – but want to remain anonymous – here’s how:

We look forward to hearing from you!

Keep your eyes peeled on the Meld website in the coming weeks for some great stories coming your way.

Wondering what we’ve discussed during Sextember in the last two years? Catch up here.

SEXtember is brought to you by Meld Magazine and Red Aware.