Sexual Health Awareness Month – Prioritize Your Well-being

April is Sexual Health Awareness Month, a time to focus on education, resources, and services available to help you make informed decisions about your health. Taking charge of your sexual health is an important part of overall well-being, and multiple resources are available to support you.

Contraceptive Options & Accessibility

The NH OB/GYN Clinic and Bush Branch Health Clinic offer walk-in contraceptive services.

• NH OB/GYN Clinic: Walk-in contraceptive services are available every Tuesday from 0745–1200 and 1300–1500.
• Bush Branch Health Clinic: Walk-in contraceptive services are available Monday–Wednesday and Fridays from 1300–1500.

Services include:

• Birth control pills, patches, rings, and injections
• Long-acting options such as IUDs (Mirena, Kyleena, Paragard) and implants (Nexplanon)
• Emergency contraception and permanent contraception counseling

Testing & Emergency Services

• STI/STD testing is available by appointment with a Primary Care Manager (PCM) or at the Emergency Department (ED).
• Emergency contraception is available at the Emergency Department for those needing immediate access.

Why It Matters

Taking care of your sexual health is a vital part of your overall wellness. If you have any questions, reach out to your local clinic or health promotion team for guidance and support.

Quick Tips for Better Sexual Health

• Communicate openly with your partner to ensure comfort and consent.
• Practice safe sex by using protection—condoms help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
• Get regular check-ups, especially for STIs, to ensure early treatment and prevent spread.
• Educate yourself on sexual health to make safer, informed decisions.

Contact Information

For more information on available services, visit your nearest clinic or contact the MCCS Health Promotion office at 645-3910 or email us at mccshealthpromotions@okinawa.usmc-mccs.org

In 1987, April was designated as Alcohol Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating communities about the risks of alcohol misuse and the importance of making informed health choices. The hope was to raise awareness of alcohol use disorder, reduce stigma, and encourage individuals to seek treatment. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, excessive drinking causes over 178,000 deaths annually, making it the leading preventable cause of death in the U.S. Alcohol misuse can have devastating effects on your health, as it can lead to alcohol poisoning, chronic diseases, kidney and liver failure, as well as poor mental health, and it also opens the door to over 200 diseases and injury-related conditions, all of which can be avoided.

While on Okinawa, being mission-ready means making smart, responsible choices on and off duty, as alcohol misuse impacts readiness, safety, leadership, and unit cohesion. The Alcohol Awareness Month campaign hopes to reinforce responsible decision-making, encourage peer accountability, and promote available resources for Marines who may need support.

Awareness efforts will occur across Marine Corps installations, at unit meetings, safety stand-downs and barracks discussions, fitness centers, and through command-led initiatives, and individuals interested in substance abuse counseling and alcohol awareness will be provided with information, services, and alternatives on how to enjoy healthy, alcohol-free recreational activities.