SHAG Week 2026
SHAG WEEK
SHAG WEEK is back
We have events lined up, starting Monday 9th February — free STI testing, Sex Quiz, informative talks, FREE SHAG packs and loads of sexual health info across campuses. Take a look at the schedule below.
Monday | Tuesday | Thursday | Friday |
Free STI testing and home test kits Bolton Street Common Room | Sexual Health Knowledge with the HSE Blanchardstown Campus,Croi building 11am – 2pm BoCo, 6pm-9pm | AkiDwA talk on FGM! CQ-108 at 12pm | Free STI testing and home test kits Tallaght, Front Courtyard 11am and 3pm |
DIY DENTAL DAM
- Check the condom expiry date and check that the package doesn’t have any holes. Get a new one if it’s expired or the package is damaged.
- Carefully open the condom package.
- While the condom is still rolled up, cut the tip off (Figure 1).
- Keep the condom rolled and put the scissors through the middle and cut through one side of the ring (Figure 2).
- Unroll the condom. You now have a rectangular piece of material to spread out over a vulva or anus to act as a barrier (Figure 3).
Endometriosis and PCOS
Unfortunately, in Ireland endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome is often hidden under rugs. Due to the lack of awareness, wrongful diagnosis can often occur which may possibly lead to serious health issues including infertility.
What it is Endo:
Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It leads to inflammation, pain, fatigue, and in some cases, infertility.
Who it affects:
It’s estimated that 1 in 10 women have endometriosis—but it is believed the number could be higher.
Why? Because it often goes undiagnosed for years, dismissed as “just bad periods.”
Endo symptoms vary widely:
There’s no one-size-fits-all with endo. Some experience mild discomfort. Others live with debilitating pain. Common signs include:
- Painful periods (beyond typical cramps)
- Pain during sex, bowel movements, or urination
- Chronic fatigue, bloating ("endo belly")
- Fertility issues
- Depression and anxiety
What is PCOS:
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that affects your hormones. It causes irregular menstrual periods, excess hair growth, acne, and infertility. People with PCOS may be at higher risk for certain health conditions, like diabetes and high blood pressure.
Who it affects:
It’s estimated that between 6 and 13% of people with ovaries have PCOS however the WHO estimates that around 70% of people with PCOS are undiagnosed due to a mixed presentation and dismissal of women’s health and pain issues.
PCOS Symptoms:
Symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) usually appear in your late teens or early 20s/
You may not experience all of the PCOS symptoms. How severe the symptoms are varies.
Symptoms of PCOS include:
- irregular periods or no periods at all
- difficulty getting pregnant
- excess hair growth (hirsutism) - usually on your face, chest, back or bottom
- weight fluctuation
- thinning hair and hair loss (alopecia)
- oily skin or acne
What to do if you think you might have Endo or PCOS?
- Track your symptoms using an app like Clue, Flo or Bearable.
- Speak with your GP about your symptoms. If your GP continuously dismisses your pain, you can seek a second opinion from another GP.
- Ask for blood tests to measure your hormone levels.
- Request a referral to a specialist.
Helpful Resources
Click the images below
