What students should know about the Cup-4-A-Cup event. and routine STI screening
Sexual health is a fundamental part of overall health and well-being, yet it is often surrounded by stigma, discomfort, or misinformation, particularly for young adults. For university students, sexual health education goes far beyond pregnancy prevention. It includes understanding how sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are transmitted, recognizing many infections do not present symptoms, and knowing when and how to access testing and care. When sexual health is treated as a routine aspect of healthcare rather than a taboo topic, students are better equipped to make informed decisions and seek support without fear or shame.
A common misconception surrounding STIs is the belief that symptoms will always be obvious. Many of the most common infections, including chlamydia and gonorrhea, are frequently asymptomatic. This means someone can feel completely healthy while still carrying an infection. Without routine testing, these infections can go undetected and untreated, potentially leading to long-term health complications such as infertility, chronic pain, or an increased risk of acquiring other infections. Regular screening is therefore a crucial form of preventative care and an important responsibility for sexually active individuals, even when no symptoms are present.
To make this type of preventative care more accessible, the Mount Allison University Wellness Centre partners with the Mount Allison Students’ Union (MASU) to host Cup-4-A-Cup, an incentivized asymptomatic STI screening clinic offered on average once a month. Cup-4-A-Cup is designed to reduce barriers to testing by offering a service that is free, confidential, and straightforward. Students are screened for common asymptomatic STIs using a simple urine sample in a supportive clinical environment. As a lighthearted incentive and reminder that sexual health care does not need to be intimidating, participants receive a cup of candy after providing their sample.
Cup-4-A-Cup is specifically intended for students who are not experiencing symptoms. This distinction is important, as symptomatic individuals may require additional testing or assessment beyond routine screening. Students who are experiencing symptoms such as pain, discharge, sores, or discomfort, are encouraged to book a regular, private appointment with the Wellness Centre registered nurse (RN), where comprehensive care and follow-up can be provided. This ensures that all students receive the most appropriate level of care for their individual needs.
Appointments for Cup-4-A-Cup are required and must be booked in advance, typically through the Jane App. To be more accessible for students, appointment bookings often open the day before the clinic. Students are encouraged to plan ahead by avoiding urination for at least two hours before their appointment and bringing a valid health card. The clinic operates out of the Wellness Centre on the ground floor of the Wallace McCain Student Centre. Results will become available between five to seven business days after testing.
The last Cup-4-A-Cup was held on Jan. 12, 2026, and the next Cup-4-A-Cup clinic will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 10, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the booking page opening on Sunday, Feb. 8, at 4:30 p.m. The clinic will be led by Reegan Gouchie Smart, a Registered Nurse at the Wellness Centre who is committed to providing care that is confidential, respectful, and student-centred.
Ultimately, sexual health education is about empowerment. When students understand their bodies, the risks associated with untreated infections, and the resources available to them, they are better positioned to take care of themselves and one another. Through ongoing education, accessible services, and initiatives like Cup-4-A-Cup, Mt.A continues to support a campus environment where prevention, care, and informed decision-making are not only available, but normalized and encouraged.