As Sexual Health Week takes place from February 9 to February 15, Grand Erie Public Health is raising awareness about the importance of sexual health and wellness for individuals of all ages.
Filip Pajtondziev, Manager of Infectious Disease and Sexual Health at Grand Erie Health United, spoke with BrantBlog about the significance of this initiative, the challenges in accessing care, and the role of public health in supporting the community.
Pajtondziev emphasized that Sexual Health Week is an “opportunity to prioritize self-care, educate the public, and foster open conversations about safe practices, consent, and emotional well-being.”
He highlighted the importance of breaking stigma and ensuring accessible services for all individuals, particularly those facing barriers to care.
“One of the main challenges in accessing sexual health services is the existence of barriers such as the lack of a health card, limited healthcare access for marginalized populations, and the stigma surrounding sexual health. Grand Erie Public Health works to eliminate these obstacles by offering confidential and inclusive services that do not require a health card,” he explained.
The organization specifically focuses on supporting marginalized communities, including individuals facing housing instability, racial and sexual minorities, and members of the LGBTQ2+ community.
Pajtondziev detailed the wide range of services provided by Grand Erie Public Health, which include sexual health education, STI prevention, free distribution of condoms and dental dams, STI and HIV testing, PrEP counseling for individuals at high risk for HIV infection, contraceptive counseling, emergency contraception, pregnancy testing, and options counseling.
“The goal is to ensure that everyone, regardless of background or financial status, has access to timely and necessary care,” said Pajtondziev.
He also stressed the role of education and outreach in improving sexual health outcomes.
Beyond clinical services, Grand Erie Public Health actively engages in community outreach efforts to educate individuals about their rights, available resources, and the importance of regular sexual health checkups.
By promoting awareness, the organization aims to empower people to make informed decisions about their health while reducing fear and misinformation.
“Let’s break the stigma and support each other in building healthier communities,” Pajtondziev said.
“Education is key to empowering individuals and breaking down barriers. By fostering open, non-judgmental discussions, we can ensure that individuals feel confident in seeking care.”
For those seeking more information or access to sexual health services, Pajtondziev encouraged individuals to visit the Grand Erie Public Health website at bchu.org/sexualhealth or call the sexual health line for confidential consultations with public health nurses and practitioners.
The agency also offers late clinic hours once a month to accommodate those with scheduling constraints.
As Sexual Health Week continues, Grand Erie Public Health remains committed to providing essential services and advocating for inclusive, accessible, and stigma-free sexual health care for all members of the community.
