Our Hearts Are With London and Somerset, KY

Our hearts are heavy with our southern and eastern Kentucky communities as our region faces the aftermath of deadly tornadoes that struck London, Somerset, and the surrounding areas. The All Access EKY team shares deep sorrow and concern for the people whose homes, lives, and communities have been shaken by this disaster.

To those affected, we extend our most sincere condolences. We see your pain. We grieve with you. And we stand beside you in unwavering solidarity.

We are devastated to witness the loss and destruction that has swept across these communities. Tornadoes have uprooted homes, disrupted lives, and tragically taken loved ones. In times like these, we are reminded of the deep strength and resilience of our region—and of the urgent need to care for and protect one another.

AAEKY is committed to showing up for individuals, families, and communities across EKY not just in moments of crisis, but every day. We are actively working with local partners and grassroots mutual aid groups to support both immediate recovery and long-term care.

We also know that in times of disaster, reproductive and sexual health needs do not pause. If you or someone you know is experiencing challenges accessing care during this time, please don’t hesitate to reach out. For confidential support or connection to resources, contact kyla@appolshop.org

Here's how you can support relief efforts right now:

🆘 Mutual Aid Support:
These groups are on the ground meeting immediate needs like shelter, food, water, and medical care.

• 💸 Donate directly to EKY Mutual Aid:

  • PayPal.me/ekymutualaid

  • Venmo: @ekymutualaid

  • Cash App: $ekymutualaid

🧃 Supplies & Distribution Centers:

These locations are distributing essential supplies:

• Faith Assembly

• Hart Baptist

• First Baptist

• Victory Life

• Horizon Health

• Victory Baptist

• Redemption Church

🏠 Emergency Shelter:

Shelters and safe lodging are available at:

• First Baptist Church

• Praxel Line Services

• Lodge at Cumberland Falls

• Piney Grove Holiness

• Wildcat Harley Davidson

• Dodge City Campground

• Victory Life Church

• Bethel London Multicultural Church

• Pine Grove Church

🍽️ Meals & Food Assistance:

Free meals and hot food are available at:

• Piney Grove Holiness Church

• Lori Wells Marcum – Patriot Realty

• Star of Bethlehem United Church

• Happy Express Mart

• Moody Cows

• Mercy Chefs – Serving hot meals for lunch and dinner at Faith Assembly

💧 Other Essential Services:

• Water/Ice: WD Bryant

• Tetanus Shots: Walmart Pharmacy

• Mental Health Support: Heartstrings

• Clothing: CatchN Deals

• Hair Washing: HeadSpa of London

• Showers: Walmart

🐾 Pet Services:

• Gone to the Dogs Boarding

• Rowdy Dog Retreat

• Corbin Animal Clinic

• Forgotten Felines

🎒 Support for Families with Children:

Please contact your child’s Family Resource or Youth Service Center (FRYSC) at their school phone number, beginning Monday morning, for help connecting with supplies, meals, and more.

👂 Hearing Aid Support:

Bluegrass Hearing is replacing hearing aids free of charge for anyone who lost them during the storm—no appointment or patient record needed.

📞 Housing Assistance:

If you are displaced and in need of housing, please call:
📱 606-521-3119

🆘 Missing Persons:

If you are searching for a missing loved one:

• In-person: Visit Faith Assembly of God (390 Faith Assembly Church Road) to speak with KSP or the Laurel County Sheriff’s Office.

• Remote: Call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) and select option 4.

We urge our friends, partners, and supporters to join us in offering help however you can. Whether it’s through donations, sharing verified resources, or showing up to volunteer—every action matters.

We will continue to update our networks with information as it becomes available and remain committed to caring for our community during this incredibly difficult time. Our region is no stranger to hardship, but together, we will rebuild, and we will heal.

With love and solidarity,
The All Access EKY Team

Understanding Endometriosis: What You Need to Know

March is Endometriosis Awareness Month, and it's the perfect time to talk about a condition that affects 1 in 10 people with ovaries, yet doesn’t get nearly enough attention: endometriosis. It’s something that can be really tough to live with, and we want to help spread the word, especially here in Eastern Kentucky, where healthcare access can be a challenge.

What is Endometriosis?

Endometriosis is when tissue, similar to the lining inside your uterus, grows outside the uterus. This tissue can grow on your ovaries, fallopian tubes, or other parts of your pelvic area. Each month, just like the uterine lining, this tissue responds to hormonal changes by thickening and shedding—but unlike the tissue inside your uterus, it has nowhere to go. This can cause pain, inflammation, and even scar tissue.

Common Symptoms of Endometriosis

• Pelvic pain – This often gets mistaken for regular menstrual cramps but can be much more intense.

• Heavy periods or bleeding between periods.

• Pain during sex or pelvic discomfort.

• Painful urination or bowel movements during menstruation.

• Infertility – Endometriosis is a leading cause of infertility for people with ovaries.

  What to Do if You Think You Have Endometriosis

• Track your symptoms – Keeping a journal of your pain and symptoms can help your doctor understand what’s going on.

• Speak up for yourself – Don’t be afraid to bring up your concerns with your healthcare provider. If they’re not familiar with endometriosis, consider getting a second opinion.

• Know your treatment options – There are several treatments for endometriosis, from hormone therapies to surgery. It’s important to understand your options and work with a provider you trust.

• Reach out for support – Whether it’s connecting with online communities or local groups, talking with others who understand can be incredibly helpful. You don’t have to go through this alone.

• Advocate for better access to care – Together, we can work to make reproductive healthcare more accessible for everyone in Kentucky, especially those in rural areas.

  Endometriosis is a tough condition to live with, but the more we talk about it, the easier it is to find the help and support we all need. Whether you’ve been dealing with it for years or think you might have it, remember that you're not alone. Let's use Endometriosis Awareness Month to break the silence, raise awareness, and make sure that everyone has the resources they need to take care of themselves.

2024 Kentucky Legislative Session

We are nearly two months into the 2024 Legislative Session and there is a lot happening! Please see below for a list of repro bills we are tracking so far.

House Bills We’re Tracking

• House Bill 10: KY Lifeline for Moms 

  This bill would establish the Kentucky maternal psychiatry access program, also known as the Kentucky Lifeline for Moms; establish duties and responsibilities of the program; direct that the program shall be operated by the Department for Public Health, Division of Maternal and Child Health. 
  Sponsor: Moser, K. 

  Current Status: Introduced 

• House Bill 173: Medicaid Coverage for Midwives 

  This bill would require the Department for Medicaid Services and any managed care organization with whom the department contracts for the delivery of Medicaid services to provide coverage for certified professional midwifery services that are provided by a licensed certified professional midwife; require the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to seek federal approval if such approval is deemed necessary. 

  Sponsor: Kulkarni, N. 

  Current Status: Introduced 

• House Bill 179: Insurers’ Ability to Transact Paid Leave 
  This bill would authorize life and health insurers to transact disability income and paid family leave insurance. 

  Sponsor: Heavrin, S. 

  Current Status: Passed House 

• House Bill 183: Disabled Parents’ Rights 
  This bill would add disability as a reason upon which a petition for adoption shall not be denied. 

  Sponsor: Tate, N. 

  Current Status: Introduced 

• House Bill 195: Family Care Leave 

  This bill would create a new section of KRS Chapter 337 to prohibit employers from refusing to grant a qualified employee family care leave; entitle an employee to family care leave for the birth of a child or to take care of a family member and establish parameters. 

  Sponsor: Stevenson, C. 

  Current Status: Introduced 

• House Bill 199: Freestanding Birth Centers 

  This bill would require the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to promulgate updated administrative regulations to establish licensure standards for freestanding birthing centers. 

  Sponsor: Nemes, J. 

  Current Status: Assigned to Committee 

• House Bill 202: Certificate of Need Bill (Abortion Clinics) 

  This bill would modify conditions under which a person is prohibited from taking actions without a certificate of need. 

  Sponsor: Proctor, M. 

  Current Status: Introduced 

• House Bill 243: Child Support for the Unborn 

  This bill would add that a child support action may be filed any time following conception. 

  Sponsor: Neighbors, A. 

  Current Status: Assigned to Judiciary 

• House Bill 252: Consent for Medical Examinations 

  This bill would prohibit a health care provider from performing a pelvic, rectal, or prostate examination without the informed consent of the patient or the person authorized to make health care decisions for the patient; provide for certain exceptions including a court order; require violators to be subject to discipline by the appropriate professional licensing board or accrediting agency. 

  Sponsor: Stalker, S. 

  Current Status: Introduced  

• House Bill 346: “Baby Olivia” Bill 

  This bill would require a school district to adopt health curricula that includes human growth and development instruction that meets specific criteria; set restrictions for the instruction that grants parents an opportunity to review materials and opt their child out of instruction; authorize the Attorney General to bring an action for a writ of mandamus to compel a school district to comply; create a cause of action to permit parents and students over the age of 18 to file a civil action a school district for injunctive relief for a violation of this section; waive sovereign and governmental immunity 

  Sponsor: Tate, N. 

  Current Status: Introduced 

• House Bill 428: North Star Bill 

  This bill would repeal Kentucky’s ban on abortion and establish reproductive rights for the people of Kentucky. 

  Sponsor: Burke, L. 

  Current Status: Introduced 

• House Bill 429: Medical Privacy for Reproductive Care 

  This bill would establish privacy protections for a woman seeking reproductive health care outside of the Commonwealth.

  Sponsor: Burke, L. 

  Current Status: Introduced 

  Senate Bills We’re Tracking

• Senate Bill 89: Medicaid Coverage for Midwives 

  This bill would require the Department for Medicaid Services and any managed care organization with whom the department contracts for the delivery of Medicaid Services to provide coverage for certified professional midwifery services that are provided by a licensed certified professional midwife. 

  Sponsor: Funke Frommeyer, S. 

  Current Status: Passed out of Committee 

• Senate Bill 95: Lactating Students 

  This bill would require public schools, public charter schools, and public postsecondary institutions to provide reasonable accommodations to a lactating student. 

  Sponsor: Chambers Armstrong, C.

  Current Status: Assigned to Education

• Senate Bill 97: Diaper Tax 

  This bill would exempt all diapers from the sales and use tax. 

  Sponsor: Chambers Armstrong, C. 

  Current Status: Assigned to Appropriations & Revenue

• Senate Bill 99: Abortion Exceptions (Hadley’s Law) 

  This bill would allow an abortion when there is a lethal fetal anomaly or the fetus is incompatible with sustained life outside the womb, or when the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest, and the fetus has not reached viability as determined in the good-faith medical judgment of the physician. It would provide an exception to the time requirement for consent when the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest, provide an exception for abortion counseling when the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest, and authorize the use of public funds for abortion when the pregnancy is the result of rape or incest.  

  Sponsor: Yates, D. 

  Current Status: Introduced 

  Action to Take

  We encourage you to be in touch with your legislators daily to demand an end to the attacks on reproductive healthcare. Please call the legislative message line daily at 1-800-372-7181 to register your disapproval with your legislators on these pieces of legislation. All you need to know is your address. You can reference the bill numbers listed above.

Information listed above has been gathered from the ACLU of Kentucky. For additional actions on these bills and up-to-the-minute updates on all things legislative, make sure to follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

Long Acting Reversible Contraceptive Methods: A Comprehensive Guide

by: Kyla Horn, AAEKY Program Manager

In today's age, there are numerous contraceptive options available to individuals, from traditional methods like condoms and birth control pills to more advanced and effective options such as long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) methods. LARC methods have gained immense popularity due to their high efficacy rates and convenience. In this blog post, we will discuss in detail what LARC methods are, their benefits, the different types available, and their effectiveness.

What are LARC Methods?

Long-acting reversible contraceptive methods are birth control methods that provide effective contraception for an extended period. Unlike traditional methods that require daily, weekly, or monthly attention, LARC methods provide continuous protection for several years. These methods are reversible, meaning they can be discontinued whenever the individual desires.

Benefits of LARC Methods

• Highly effective: LARC methods are the most effective forms of contraception currently available, with a failure rate of less than 1%. This is due to their reliability and the fact that they eliminate the potential for human error often associated with traditional methods.

• Convenience: Once a LARC method is inserted or administered, there is little to no maintenance required. This eliminates the need for constant vigilance associated with other forms of birth control.

• Long-term protection: LARC methods provide continuous contraception for an extended period, ranging from three to ten years depending on the method chosen. This long-lasting protection reduces the risk of unplanned pregnancies.

• Reversibility: Unlike permanent contraceptive methods such as sterilization, LARC methods are reversible. This means that a person can conceive shortly after discontinuing the use of these methods.

Types of LARC Methods

• Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): These are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus by a healthcare professional. There are two types of IUDs available - hormonal and non-hormonal. Hormonal IUDs release a small amount of progestin, a hormone that thickens the cervical mucus and thins the uterine lining, making it difficult for sperm to reach and fertilize the egg. Non-hormonal IUDs are made of copper, which creates an environment toxic to sperm, preventing fertilization.

• Implants: Implants are small, flexible rods that are placed under the skin of the upper arm. They continuously release a hormone called progestin, which prevents ovulation and thickens the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to enter the uterus.

 If you are considering contraception, consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the best contraception options for you. Remember, LARC methods provide reliable and hassle-free contraception, giving you greater peace of mind and control over your reproductive health.

All Access EKY Quarterly Recap

by: Kyla Horn, AAEKY Program Manager

All Access EKY has been very active in the community over the last few months! Keep reading to see what we have been up to.

• Appalachian Media Institute 2023 Summer Documentary Institute

We were able to join the Appalachian Media Institute during the fourth week of their Summer Documentary Institute for a reproductive well-being workshop! We had the opportunity to teach them a little more about the state of reproductive well-being in Kentucky and how they can advocate in their own communities.

All Access EKY was built on the ability to give young people the power to share their own stories and experiences, with many AMI interns throughout the years being responsible for creating the foundation we've been able to expand upon. Our region is in good hands with folks like these leading the fight!

• 'Who Are They?' Community Teach-In with Planned Parenthood

All Access EKY, Planned Parenthood Alliance Advocates, and Sexy Sex Ed team up to discuss reproductive justice in eastern Kentucky and the work they are doing to keep our communities safe.

• Big Ideas Fest

Our team expanded the capacity of community members to advocate for improved contraceptive access at Big Ideas Fest in Hazard! We conducted a workshop on “Reproductive Well-Being in KY: Strategies to Improve Contraceptive Access” that gave an overview of the state of reproductive well-being in Kentucky, as well as a template for attendees to create their own advocacy action plan.

• Updates on Birth Control Methods Training at University of Kentucky

Two of our AAEKY board members, Joanne Brown, DNP, WHNP-C, FNP-C, from UK College of Nursing and Alecia Fields, D.O., FACOG, OB/GYN at Women’s Care of Lake Cumberland, facilitated an in-person workshop on contraceptive updates and evidence-based uses with the University of Kentucky Student Health Services staff. During this session our presenters reviewed current methods of contraception, including off-label use and IUDs as emergency contraception. Participants also learned more about the newer FDA approved birth control methods on the market. This was an extremely successful event with 22 providers attending in-person!

Debunking Six Common Birth Control Myths

by: Kyla Horn, AAEKY Program Manager

There are many misconceptions surrounding birth control that often lead to confusion and misinformation. In this blog post, we will debunk some of the most common misconceptions about birth control, providing accurate information to help you make informed decisions about your reproductive health.

• FACT: Birth control does not affect your ability to have children in the future.

One of the most widespread misconceptions about birth control is that it causes infertility. However, this is far from the truth. Birth control methods, including the pill, patch, ring, shot, impant, and intrauterine devices (IUDs), do not affect a person’s fertility in the long term. It is possible to get pregnant soon after discontinuing the use of birth control. It's important to remember that every person's body is different, so it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before making any decisions about your reproductive health.

• FACT: Most birth control methods do not cause weight gain.

Like many medications, some people report weight gain with birth control.While some people may experience slight weight fluctuations when they start using hormonal birth control methods, the majority of scientific studies have shown little to no evidence of a direct link between birth control and weight gain. The two exceptions to this are the birth control shot and birth control implant. Most people don’t gain weight because of these methods, but some might. If someone is predisposed to gaining weight with the shot, it will likely occur within the first six months. It's important to remember that many factors can contribute to weight changes, including lifestyle, age, and genetics. If you are concerned about weight gain or any other side effects, it's best to consult with your healthcare provider.

• FACT:  People use birth control for a number of reasons, including to prevent pregnancy.

Contrary to popular belief, birth control is not only used for pregnancy prevention. While it is true that birth control methods like the pill, patch, ring, shot, implant, IUDs, and condoms are effective in preventing pregnancy, they also offer various other health benefits. For example, hormonal birth control methods can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual pain, and lessen the risk of certain reproductive cancers. Additionally, some birth control methods, such as hormonal IUDs, can be used to treat conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). And condoms are important in protecting yourself from sexually transmitted infections.

• FACT: Birth control is effective at preventing pregnancy when used as directed.

It's important to understand that abstinence is the only 100% effective method of preventing pregnancy. However, abstinence is not for everyone.  Birth control methods such as hormonal implants and IUDs are the most effective at preventing pregnancy - more than 99% effective.  Other methods, such as birth control pills and condoms, can be less effective because they require the person using them to use them correctly and consistently. For example, remembering to take the pill at the same time every day.  It's essential to use birth control consistently and as instructed by your healthcare provider to maximize its effectiveness. For maximum protection against pregnancy and STIs, pair a hormonal method (like the pill or an implant) with a condom.  It’s also worth considering keeping emergency contraception, also called the morning after pill or Plan B, on hand in case your birth control method fails. To learn more about the full range of birth control methods and their effectiveness check out Bedsider.org. 

• FACT: It is possible to get pregnant if you have sex while you’re on your period. 

You’re most likely to get pregnant if you have sex around the time of ovulation, but it is possible to get pregnant at any time during your cycle.

Ovulation, when an egg is released from the ovary, usually occurs about 14 days after the start of your last period. However, ovulation can be unpredictable and some people may have spotting at the time of ovulation, which could be confused with a period. And sperm stay alive and swim for days after sex.

• FACT: Wearing an extra condom is less effective.

Wearing an extra condom is actually less effective at preventing pregnancy and protecting against STIs. This is because using two condoms can cause friction between them, weakening the material and increasing the chance that they will break. If you want to increase your protection against pregnancy, instead consider using another method  of birth control, like an IUD, with a condom.

Dispelling misconceptions about birth control is crucial in order to make informed decisions regarding reproductive health. Understanding the facts about birth control can help you choose the method that best suits your needs and protects your reproductive health effectively. Remember, it's always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider to get personalized advice and guidance on birth control options.

Sit Down with Deladis Haywood, Co-Producer of Award-Winning Appalachian Film

by: Kyla Horn, AAEKY Program Manager

Last summer, All Access EKY supported Appalachian Media Institute (AMI) interns to create a media piece that focused on sexual and reproductive health in Appalachia. After finally completing rounds at numerous film festivals, ‘No Such Right: The End of Roe in Appalachia’ is now live to stream on YouTube!

‘No Such Right’ is a snapshot of a region in crisis. In the aftermath of the stunning Dobbs v Jackson decision, doctors, lawyers, activists, and young people across Appalachia had to come to terms with what the future of their region and their rights would be. ‘No Such Right’ is our search for answers, highlighting the voices of those impacted by Dobbs and their efforts to reckon with and remedy these issues. This story is a single piece of a much larger national narrative, but it is a story that few others are in a place to tell.

We were able to speak with one of the film’s four producers, Deladis Haywood, to hear about her individual experience creating this short film.

 Q: What was the thought process like that led to your group picking this topic for your piece?

A: The process that led to the topic of our piece happened pretty quickly. We knew we were going to make a film for All Access EKY from the start, but we weren't sure what it would be about just yet. Roe v. Wade being overturned was announced later that June and we were outraged. We knew immediately that our film would be on Roe v. Wade being overturned. We wanted to show how people in Appalachia were experiencing this big change. We wanted to share the real opinions, beliefs, and knowledge the people in Appalachia have about this topic. We wanted to fight the Appalachian stereotypes and give people a platform to speak their minds and share their stories. Our ultimate goal was to try our best to help fight the overturning and help make a change with our documentary.

 Q: How would you describe your experience creating this video?

A: The experience of creating our documentary had its good parts and tough parts. It was difficult creating a film about a topic that was ongoing. I personally feared getting backlash from people because the topic is so touchy for many. It was tough figuring out how to tell the story the right way and the most accurate. Although it could be hard at times, I would also describe the experience as life-changing. I went to my first protest ever and got to document and meet so many different people. I learned so many new skills along with how to tell a good, cohesive, story involving photography, videography, and video editing. These skills I know I will use and take with me for the rest of my life.

 Q: What was your biggest take away?

A:  My biggest takeaway from creating this film is to never stop fighting. Women, trans, and non-binary individuals have had to fight for their rights for decades. We have had things taken away from us again and again. We have had old white men in power who know nothing about abortion or what it means to be pro-choice argue and try to take control over our bodies like we are their property over and over. Just when you think you are done fighting they come right back around to try and gain power over you once again. We need to show that we are stronger than them, we need to show that we are people and we are nobody's property. We need to show we will always win the fight.

Q: How do you think growing up in Appalachia influenced the way you were able to tell this story?

A: I was able to empathize and understand everyone's stories better where I have experienced similar things before. I experience the same anger, fears, and understandings they do. Growing up primarily around pro-life/anti-women people will always be tough. Growing up in a place where you don't feel understood by people from the inside or outside will always be tough, but it gives me the same fighting spirit my Appalachian brothers and sisters have. The spirit that drove me to help make this film.

 Q: From July 26-30th 2022, a devastating flood swept through 14 counties in eastern KY, killing dozens and displacing thousands. If you feel comfortable, I would love to hear more about the struggles you all were able to overcome in producing this piece while simultaneously dealing with the devastating flooding in the region. I can't imagine the roller coaster of emotions this caused, especially with the loss of the Boone building and potentially the work you'd spent so much time on.

A: The morning of the flood was one of the scariest moments of my life. When I found out how catastrophic the flood really was I was devastated. I had no way out of my house because of my washed out driveway due to the rushing water. I had no way of communicating with many family members or friends. When I heard houses were under water I worried for them the most. When I found out the Boone building and the Appalshop building was under water, all my hope was lost. Our screening was canceled and all the work me and my fellow interns were doing all summer was gone. I felt like our work and time would amount to nothing. I felt like our voices would never be heard. I grieved over the film for days until we got news that a very smart and talented individual swooped in and was able to save the majority of the films made over the summer (ours included). I was more than relieved. The screening that was canceled was later held in Lexington at a really nice theater along with the other two films. I'm thankful that my story had a happy ending, but I would like to acknowledge the many people who have suffered and are still suffering today from the catastrophic floods. I know many who are still homeless, jobless, and have lost loved ones. I wish the best for all of them and I am currently working on a project as an intern under Malcolm J. Wilson where I interview and photograph flood victims to help share their stories so that people never forget what happened that terrible day. 

  Q: As we begin to approach the one-year anniversary of the Dobbs decision, how has your current outlook changed as compared to a year ago when you were creating this film?

A: My outlook has not changed much from a year ago. I can say that I still have faith in Appalachia and I have faith we will continue to fight whatever else comes our way. Seeing everyone vote no on the ballots was truly inspiring and I will say that I have hope that things will continue to look up in these mountains. There will still be challenges, but it is nothing we can't face.

Tate Greene is a 19-year-old from Knoxville, Tennessee. They are currently a sophomore studying History and Education at Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire and hope to one day become a teacher.

Sarah Sexton is a 16-year-old from Colson, Kentucky. She is a junior at Letcher County Central High School and plans to study Filmmaking and Directing in college. Sarah hopes to continue her filmmaking career by becoming a film director or producer.

Deladis Haywood is a 17-year-old from Mayking, Kentucky. She is a senior at Letcher County Central High School and is still considering what to study in higher education, though Film seems like a promising path. Deladis hopes she can make more documentaries in the future.

Rebekah McAuley is a 16-year-old from Whitesburg, Kentucky. She is a junior at Letcher County Central High School and plans to study Film and English in college. Rebekah hopes to pursue a career in film, either behind the camera or on the screen herself.

AAEKY April Recap

by: Kyla Horn, AAEKY Program Manager

April has been an extremely busy month for All Access EKY! Keep reading below to see everything we have been working on.

• Hosted Our First AAEKY 2023 Advisory Board Meeting

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Dr. Alecia Fields, Maui Hall, Heather Ayer, Joanne Brown, Cara Ellis, Dustin Miracle, Susan Kincaid, Sarah Ratliff, Cait Cummings

Meet the All Access EKY Advisory Board! We’re honored to have this brilliant group of folks working with our team to help grow our impact and mission.

We were able to have our first in-person meeting of the year in Pikeville, KY. We were able to collaborate as a group and brainstorm ideas related to all three of our main buckets of work; healthcare service and delivery, community engagement, and policy. We have many exciting things coming your way!

• AAEKY On Campus

AAEKY was invited to Centre College to present a convocation on reproductive well-being in Kentucky and strategies to increase contraceptive access. We taught 200+ attendees how to be successful advocates for contraceptive access and develop an action plan to improve reproductive well-being in their own communities.

We partnered with KYCOM ACOOG to host a reproductive health talk circle with students on campus at University of Pikeville. We discussed challenges in accessing reproductive healthcare in the region, training and education resources that would be useful, and what AAEKY can do to best support them.

Interested in hosting an event with AAEKY on your campus? Send an email to kyla@appalshop.org!

• Clinic Visits

We are so excited to kick off our year by being back in the community and getting to spread the mission of our project face-to-face. This month we’ve been able to visit sixteen clinics in six of our counties (Pike, Floyd, Martin, Perry, Knott, and Wolfe) to speak with staff about how we can best support their needs. We couldn’t leave without making sure they were stocked up with posters, patient education materials, and some AAEKY swag.

Interested in receiving some materials for your clinic? Send an email to kwilliams@powertodecide.org!

• Tabled at Hillbilly Days

AAEKY was invited to table with KYCOM AMWA & ACOOG for their Women’s Health Fair at their booth during Hillbilly Days. We provided information about local providers, STI testing locations, at-home breast exam demonstrations, as well as Plan B and condoms. Raffle tickets were sold for $1 each with all proceeds being donated to All Access EKY!

So You've Been Diagnosed with an STI, Here's What to do Next:

By: Annika Reitenga

April is STI Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and promoting sexual health education. If you have recently been diagnosed with an STI, it's important to remember that you are not alone. STIs are very common, and many people who have them may not even know it. While receiving a diagnosis may feel overwhelming, it's crucial to take action and seek proper medical care. In this blog post, we'll discuss what to do if you've been diagnosed with an STI, including how to talk to your partner(s) about the diagnosis, treatment options, and steps you can take to prevent the spread of infection. Remember, with proper care and management, STIs can be treated and managed effectively.

1. First off, remember that you are not alone.

On any given day, about 1 in 5 people in the U.S. have an STI (source). While the media and fear-based sex ed has often depicted STIs in an inaccurate or stigmatized way, the truth is that STIs are extremely common. 

2. Words matter. Talk about yourself (and others) kindly.

Words such as “clean” and “dirty” give the inaccurate perception that people who test positive for an STI are somehow less hygienic than others. Terms like these also contribute to the unjust social stigma around STIs. Try to use phrases such as “tested positive” or “tested negative” when referencing your STI status. 

3. Check in with medical professionals about your treatment options.

Remember: Many STI are curable and ALL STIs are treatable. STIs can be caused by bacteria, parasites, yeast, or viruses. Your treatment plan will depend, in part, on the source of the infection. Depending on the type of infection, you will likely be prescribed an antibiotic or antiviral. You can check out the CDC’s  Sexually Transmitted Infections Treatment Guidelines, 2021 to learn more about treatment options. For some STIs, you might need a long-term treatment plan, so make sure that you check in with your doctor about the best plan for you.

4. Inform your recent partner(s) about your diagnosis. 

This might feel hard but remember that STIs are incredibly common. You should not feel ashamed for caring about your sexual health and the sexual health of those around you. 

Try to approach the conversation like how you might if you recently tested positive for COVID. You’d want to tell the people you were recently around about your positive test result so that they could consider getting their own test and refraining from social activities until they know their status. For some STIs, like chlamydia and gonorrhea, your doctor might be able to give you medication for your partner too (this is called expedited partner therapy). There are also email or text services, like inSPOT and Don’t Spread It, where you can send someone an anonymous message that they may have been exposed to an STI and to get tested. 

Before engaging in the “blame game,” remember that many people have STIs without knowing it. For example, most people with genital herpes are unaware that they have the infection (CDC). This is partially because the CDC does not recommend testing for herpes in routine STI screenings (Source). Most people with Human Papilloma Virus, or HPV, are also unaware that they have the infection (Source).  This means that, even if someone gets an annual screening for STIs, they might not know their herpes or HPV status, even though they can still spread the infection. Keep this information in mind when discussing your test results with your partner(s). 

5. Take care of yourself, mentally and physically.

Due in part to poor sex education, cultural shame around sex, and social stigmas perpetrated through the media and popular discourse, there is still an unfair stigma around STIs. People might feel like they have “failed” if they test positive for an STI. However, the only way to completely prevent STIs is from abstaining from sex. While this is a great option for some individuals, it is not a feasible option for everyone. While using barrier methods such as condoms can reduce the risk of STIs, they are not 100% effective. 

If you are feeling a lot of shame or sadness after a diagnosis, here are some tips:

•  Reframe your diagnosis: Try to think about your reaction to getting diagnosed with the flu, chickenpox, an ear infection, or COVID. Why does getting diagnosed with an STI have to be different? Infections are a common part of the human experience, and STIs are no different. 

• Find a community: For all the issues that social media can cause, it can also be an avenue for finding a positive (get it? 😉) community. There are several advocates on social media who share their experiences with an STI diagnosis and create destigmatized content on STIs. (For example, @sexelducation is a sex educator and writer who shares wonderful resources on her social media platforms!)

• Rest and recover: As with any ailment, giving yourself time to rest is important for your healing. STIs can cause symptoms that are uncomfortable, so try to develop strategies that can help you relax as much as possible. Maybe taking a bath, napping, or taking over the counter painkillers could help alleviate symptoms. Remember to consult with your doctor on the best methods for you to speed up recovery. 

About the Author: Annika Reitenga is a PhD student who studies rhetoric and health communications. She is specifically interested in studying social constructions of health and health stigma. Annika is currently working on a research project studying sex education curriculum in the American South. You can reach her at annika.reitenga@louisville.edu. 

Will You Please Be My Valentine: How to Respect Consent this Valentine's Day

Adapted from All Access EKY’s YouTube video, Will You Please Be My Valentine

Consent is something that applies to all kinds of healthy relationships. Consent is an agreement between two people to ensure that both individuals feel comfortable and safe, prior to engaging in sexual activities. Consent is a major part of fostering a healthy relationship. This conversation should create space for both individuals to freely communicate their boundaries and acknowledge each partner's preferences. A great pneumonic device to remember key components of consent is FRIES. Consent is: Freely given, Reversible, Informed, Enthusiastic, and Specific.  

•  Freely Given: Doing something sexual with someone should be made without pressure, force, manipulation, or while drunk or high. Assuming that you have consent just because of the way someone is dressed or because someone accepts a drink, ride, or any other favor, or is dating you is not consent. 

• Reversible: Anyone can change their mind about what they want to do, at any time. Even if you’ve done it before or are in the middle of having sex.

• Informed: Be honest. For example, if someone says they’ll use a condom and they don’t, that’s not consent. 

• Enthusiastic: If someone isn’t excited, or really into it, that’s not consent. Saying yes or giving in because you feel under pressure or afraid to say no is not consent.

• Specific: Saying yes to one thing (like making out) doesn’t mean they’ve said yes to others (like oral sex). Ignoring nonverbal actions that show someone is not interested (walking away, pulling, pushing, etc.) is not consent.

Asking questions like: “I think I’m ready to have sex, what about you?”, “Is this okay?”, “Are you comfortable with this?”, “Does this feel good?” and “Should we go any further?” are important to getting consent. 

Consent goes both ways and applies to all genders and sexual orientations. Giving and getting consent is not a “girl” thing. Societal standards, gender expectations and toxic masculinity have created a stigma that a a male partner will always consent to sex. Often times, reports of sexual harassment from males are not taken seriously, making it easy for men or boys to be taken advantage of. An individual's choice to consent, or not to consent, should be respected no matter the circumstances or gender.

Consent should not be taboo. It should be practiced and taught in everyday instances too. When you’re walking in a crowd, rather than touching someone to let them know you’re there, try saying excuse me. Another way to practice routine consent is to ask for permission before posting or taking a photo of someone or knock on someone’s door before you enter their space. In other words, if something could make a person feel violated or uneasy, you should always have their consent beforehand. This mindset can be instilled at a young age. Teach your children to be mindful and respectful of others feelings and space by creating an environment in which they feel comfortable. Encourage your children to think about their own personal boundaries and respect them. For example, never pressure your child into hugging a family member. Let this be their choice. Having a grasp on this will encourage healthy relationships, friendships, and sense of self.

Resources on Consent:

• www.loveisrespect.org - Website with great information on consent, healthy relationships, red flags and signs of abuse, and other sexual health topics. 

• www.teachconsent.org - Has great videos and discussion guides that parents and teachers can use to spark a conversation about consent with young people.

Sexual Assault Resources:

• RAINN (the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network) is the nation’s largest anti-sexual violence organization. Call their free, confidential hotline at 800-656-HOPE(4673) or go to hotline.rainn.org/online to use their online chat feature.

• KASAP.org: Kentucky Association of Sexual Assault Programs offers an interactive map where you can find your local rape crisis centers by selecting the county you live in.

• EndRapeOnCampus.org: End Rape on Campus (EROC) works to end campus sexual violence through direct support for survivors and their communities.

• 1in6.org/helpline: This free and anonymous helpline is available 24/7, for men who’ve experienced sexual abuse or assault and for those who care about them. 

• SafeHelpline.org: DoD Safe Helpline is a secure, confidential, and anonymous crisis support service specially designed for members of the DoD community affected by sexual assault.

• NSVRC.org: The National Sexual Violence Resource Center’s mission is to provide leadership in preventing and responding to sexual violence through collaboration, sharing and creating resources, and promoting research. 

• Hotline.WomensLaw.org: The purpose of this Email Hotline is for WomensLaw to provide basic legal information, referrals, and emotional support related to domestic violence, sexual assault, or stalking.