Prompts Encourage Open Discussions about Sexual Health
Want to chat about sex without feeling awkward? Check out Pillow Talk, a fun card game created by Boston University’s Student Health Services (SHS). This game helps students have more open and enjoyable conversations about sex and sexual health. You can play with friends, partners, or even solo.
Pillow Talk was launched recently as part of the SHS’s Condom Fairy program, which sends free safer sex supplies directly to students. Now, they’re also giving out the game for free!
The idea for Pillow Talk came from students themselves, according to Sarah Voorhees, assistant director of health promotion at SHS. Regular surveys showed that many students struggle with talking about sexual health. In the spring of 2024, one student suggested a card game to spark these conversations, just as SHS was brainstorming similar projects.
“We combined those ideas, and Pillow Talk was born,” said Lydia Giersch, a coordinator at SHS. Giersch believes the Condom Fairy program was the ideal way to roll out the game. It has built trust with students over its 12-year run, making it a perfect platform for Pillow Talk.
Pillow Talk has three themed decks to guide discussions. The **Sexploration Deck** helps players explore their sexual priorities, the **Pleasure Deck** focuses on what feels good, and the **Communication Deck** aims to improve how partners talk about sex, setting boundaries, and other important topics. Fun wild cards and interesting facts keep the game lively. Most importantly, there’s no right or wrong way to play.
“It’s like a choose-your-own-adventure game,” Giersch explains. The idea is to use the game as a way to dive into conversations about sex and pleasure.
The game welcomes everyone, regardless of their relationship status or sexual activity.
SHS began working on Pillow Talk in July and held a focus group in September with eight students. This feedback helped shape the questions and design of the game. SHS Student Ambassadors also pitched in to ensure the questions were relevant and fun. Giersch emphasizes that student involvement has been key at every stage, from the original idea to the final product.
Pillow Talk isn’t just a game; it’s a tool for building confidence in discussing sexual health. SHS hopes to encourage students to have honest conversations, whether it’s about birth control, STI testing, or understanding their own needs and boundaries.
Remember, talking about sex can be tricky, but communication is key. And a little humor from Pillow Talk makes it easier!
Check out this related article: Unlocking Health Equity: Why Class is the Key Factor You Can’t Ignore – PMLiVE
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