Sex health: takeaways from Puberty Blues & Sex Education

The 2012 hit Australian TV series ‘Puberty Blues’ and Netflix’s British 2019 comedy-drama ‘Sex Education’, commonly explore teenagerhood—including themes of sexual health, consent and relationships.

Trigger warning: references to sexual harassment and unplanned pregnancy.

I’ve recently binge watched both these TV shows and as similar as they may seem to be (high school drama and a lot of sex talk), they offer very different lessons to be learnt. Of course, it’s important to address that Puberty Blues is based off a 70s book and hence both shows are set in different eras and filmed at different times (hint: Sex Education is very progressive in comparison to Puberty Blues).  

Media and the influence of those around us very much impact our perceptions of sex, consent and relationships. I believe both shows capture the complexity of growing up, puberty and relationships – and I would highly recommend watching Sex Education as it appropriately handles sexual assault, harassment, mental illness, STIs, sexuality and more. Sex Education also explores niche themes that are often overlooked in general media.

Although Puberty Blues was enjoyable to watch overall (particularly as it is an Australian TV show with…interesting slang), I found myself uncomfortable by the amount of bullying, toxicity and assault that occurred. However, it showed me that as a society we have progressed past certain behaviours (but it is also important to be aware that inappropriate and unwanted behaviour still occurs).

Unplanned pregnancy is also explored in the TV shows, and it represents just how distressing and life-changing this can be. It’s important that there is education, communication and transparency when it comes to consent and protection.

The Wellbeing hub has a page dedicated to Sexual Health, which contains resources including pregnancy advice, STIs and contraception. The Wellbeing hub has also introduced a new sexual health initiative where you can order a free condom pack – instructions below!

1. Students email to request a free pack of 10 condoms (and lube).
Email link is on the Wellbeing Hub Sexual Health page and posters on campus have QR codes that take you straight there.

2. You will receive an email within 48 hours (excluding weekends) with instructions for collection.

3. Collection timeframe will be provided and you have that window in which to collect the package.