Medical Services

We do not charge for office visits; this is covered by the university health fees (for McMinnville students). There is no charge for counseling visits on either the McMinnville or Portland campuses.

If lab work or x-rays are needed, your insurance may be billed. The provider you see will discuss what options are available depending on the type of insurance you have.

Call: 503-883-2535

Email: shwcc@linfield.edu

Walk in at Walker 105. Same-day appointments are available as the schedule allows.

Yes! You will need to contact Student Accounts with your name, your student ID and the semester you want to opt in. Student Accounts can then remove the Portland health fee and add the McMinnville health fee to your account. This will allow you to get medical services at SHWCC.

Student Accounts email: student.accounts@linfield.edu

For many medical services, you can be seen the same day or within 1-2 days.

Counseling appointments can be scheduled the same day or within the week. It is best to schedule your appointment in advance if this is your first appointment, or if there is a particular counselor you want to work with.

Sometimes we can see you the same day, but usually you can be seen within 1-2 days. The exception would be an annual exam, which may need to be scheduled a week in advance.

There is not a pharmacy on campus, but the SHWCC medical provider can write a prescription to be filled at any off-campus pharmacy.

SHWCC does not carry any prescription medication samples.

We carry over-the-counter (OTC) medications such as Tylenol, Ibuprofen, Benadryl, acid reducers and antidiarrheal medications.

Yes, you can get health physicals done at the SHWCC (e.g., sports, travel, nursing school, study abroad, peace corps, scuba and various medical clearance testing for internships).

No, due to the risk of anaphylaxis, we do not administer allergy shots. We recommend that you speak with your home provider.

Yes, we can freeze them or prescribe medication to help manage them.

Yes, we can screen, diagnose and treat most common STIs.

STI screening is free of charge; it is not billed to your insurance carrier.

• STIs: HIV, Syphilis, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Pap smears >21yo.

If you have lab work done (other than STI screening), imaging or prescriptions, these may be billed to your primary medical insurance. For some students, that is their parents’ insurance.

STI screening is free of charge and is not billed to insurance.

No, SHWCC does not provide sick notes to students. Please refer to the Sick Note Policy on Central.

No, SHWCC at Linfield University does not provide letters of support for emotional support animals. We understand that animals can be a source of support for many students; however, there is increasing recognition that advanced expertise is needed to make formal recommendations. Thus, letters of support would need to be provided by an outside medical or mental health professional with expertise in this type of assessment.

Linfield University does provide pet-friendly housing options for students. Contact Residence Life at housing@linfield.edu for more information and availability.

Please contact the Student Account/Cashier Office at 503-883-2241 or in Melrose 030 for assistance with the school insurance plan.

Yes, SHWCC provides education, consultation and access to all contraceptive methods. Students are encouraged to make an appointment with a medical provider to discuss options. Prescriptions for birth control can be filled by any local pharmacy (the Savon pharmacy at Albertsons is the closest option to the McMinnville campus).

• Condoms, lubrication and dental dams are provided free of charge at SHWCC and some of the Residence Halls.
• Oral contraceptive pills, both progesterone only and combined oral contraceptives, are available by prescription.
• Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) methods, including IUDs (Paragard, Mirena, ect) and the subdermal implant (Nexplanon) are available for placement at Physicians Medical Center (PMC) in McMinnville following an SHWCC office consult. We can also assist with IUD and Nexplanon removals through PMC.
• Other options available by prescription include the monthly contraceptive ring (NuvaRing), weekly contraceptive patch (Xulane), and the Depo-Provera injection.

More information about contraception choices is available from Planned Parenthood and contraceptive technology.org.

No, Pap screenings are recommended for women 21 years and older to screen for cervical cancer.

There is no charge for consultation at SHWCC. PMC or the local pharmacy can bill your health insurance for the cost of prescription contraception or office visits for LARC placement.

• Emergency contraception reduces the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex. EC is most effective if taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex but can be used up to 5 days following intercourse. The sooner you take EC, the better it works to prevent pregnancy. EC does not cause an abortion.
• Plan B is available for purchase at any pharmacy, regardless of your age, with no need for a prescription. Plan B may be less effective in women over 165 pounds.
• Ella, the most effective “morning after pill”, requires a prescription from a medical provider and is most effective if taken within 5 days of unprotected sex. Ella may be less effective for people over 193 lbs.
• The Copper IUD (ParaGard) is the most effective form of EC if placed within five days of unprotected sex.

More information about emergency contraception is available from Planned Parenthood, or you can call 2-1-1 to find free or low-cost EC near you.

Yes, we can screen, diagnose and treat most common STIs.

STI screening is free of charge; it is not billed to your insurance carrier.

• STIs: HIV, Syphilis, Chlamydia, Gonorrhea and Pap smears >21yo.

Linfield's Title IX Coordinator:

• Jess Ettell Irvine
• titleIX@linfield.edu

Learning Support Services

Office of Student Care and Support

Student Health, Wellness and Counseling Center (for McMinnville students only)

Birth Control, STD Testing & Abortion - Salem, OR (plannedparenthood.org)

• 3825 Wolverine St NE, Salem, OR 97305
• Phone: (888) 875-7820

WHA Newberg - Women's Healthcare Associates (whallc.com)

• 1003 Providence Dr Ste 340, Newberg, OR 97132
• Phone: (503) 538-2698

Women's Health Care | OBGYN | McMinnville, OR (willamettevalleymedical.com)

• 2700 SE Stratus Ave # 301, McMinnville, OR 97128
• Phone: (971) 901-3908

Salem Women’s Clinic, Inc.

• 1395 Liberty Street SE, Salem, OR  97302, info@salemwomensclinic.com
• Phone: (503) 399-2444

Wilder Midwifery

• 405 NE 3^rd Street # 7, McMinnville, OR 97128
• Phone (503) 495-3266 Email contact@wildermidwifery.com 

Family Birthing Center | Labor & Delivery | McMinnville, OR (willamettevalleymedical.com)

• 2700 SE Stratus Ave, McMinnville, OR 97128
• Phone: (503) 435-6400

The Oregon Clinic Obstetrics and Gynecology East, oregonclinic.com

• Located in Providence Portland Medical Center
• 5050 NE Hoyt St suite 362 & 353, Portland, OR 97213
• Phone: (503) 239-6800

The Oregon Clinic Obstetrics and Gynecology North, oregonclinic.com

• Located in Legacy Emanuel Medical Center
• 501 N Graham St #550, Portland, OR 97227
• Phone: (503) 284-5220

Providence Women’s Clinic East,  Women’s Clinic East Portland | Providence

• 545 NE 47th Ave, Suite 102, Portland, OR 97213 
• Phone: 503-215-6262

Vibrant Family Medicine and Midwifery | Natural Family Health Care

• 22400 SE Stark St, Suite 105, Gresham, OR 97030 Info@mthoodfamilymedicine.com
• Phone 503-218-3100

Birth Control, STD Testing & Abortion - Portland, OR (plannedparenthood.org)

• 3727 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97212
• Phone: (888) 875-7820

Oregon Department of Human Services Adoption & Guardianship Page

Linfield's Title IX Coordinator:

• Jess Ettell Irvine
• titleIX@linfield.edu

Learning Support Services

Office of Student Care and Support

Student Health, Wellness and Counseling Center (for McMinnville students only)

What is an allergy?

An Allergy is a sensitivity or specific reaction to something inhaled, swallowed, or something that comes in contact with the skin. Allergic substances are called allergens. Common Allergens include: pollens, wool, dyes, medicines, feathers, molds, dust, food, insect stings, and animal dander.

What causes an allergy?

When an allergen is absorbed into the body, the blood produces antibodies. The antibodies react with the allergens to produce histamines. Histamines cause inflammation in the nose, eyes, lungs, skin and digestive system, etc.

Common reactions

• Hay fever: sneezing, itching, nasal drainage, burning throat, etc.
• Allergic rhinitis: nasal congestion and drainage, and sneezing
• asthma: coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing
• Allergic dermatitis: itchy rashes, etc.
• Contact dermatitis: rash caused by direct contact with substances

Treatment

FIRST: Try to identify the source(s) of the allergy and avoid them Avoid going outside when pollen counts are high. Early in the morning is the worst. Avoid active exercise outside during your worst seasons. Try indoor aerobic activities and swimming. Because most of us cannot avoid pollens, it helps to take a shower before going to bed. Clear bedroom of items that can collect dust. Consider purchasing an air filter. Eliminate foods that are known to cause problems.

NEXT: Over the counter antihistamines and decongestants can provide temporary relief. READ LABELS and follow precautions. If drowsiness is a problem, consider getting

medical advice.

When to seek medical advice

• When over the counter medications aren't helping/causing drowsiness
• When your allergies are getting in the way of your studying, going to class, or functioning of your daily routine
• When a secondary infection might have developed: Fever of over 101°F for 24 hours
• Difficulty breathing
• Anything else that doesn't seem right

Allergies vs. Cold

Itchy eyes, nose and throat are characteristic of allergies. Fever, sore throat, and muscle aches are characteristic of upper respiratory infections. Allergy symptoms usually disappear when treated with antihistamines, while fever, sore throat will not be affected. Allergy symptoms usually worse in the mornings during spring and summer when pollen counts are high. Also, allergies can come and go with the weather, lingering on and off. Upper respiratory infections are usually uninterrupted and gone in about 14 days.

A Cold

Runny nose, sneezing, sore or scratchy throat, hoarseness, cough, general malaise, muscle aches, and pains, and occasional low-grade fever are some of the discomforts of a cold. A cold is an upper respiratory infection caused by a virus. Colds are transmitted through coughing, sneezing or hand contact with infected surfaces A person is contagious from 2-3 days before symptoms occur until fever is gone. Secondary infections are usually indicated by pain, fever over 101 F, excessive coughing or prolonged symptoms. It is normal for symptoms to last 2 weeks. There is no medication to cure colds currently available.

Treatment: (to prevent secondary infections and complications)

• Wash your hands often to prevent transmission to others
• Gargle with warm salt water 3 times/day
• Drink extra liquids
• SLEEP, so your body can recover
• Steam can relieve nasal congestion
• Cough drops, hard candies and hot drinks can relieve cough
• Acetaminophen can relieve aching
• Over-the-counter decongestants can help

Allergies Vs. Colds and Flu

Allergies are the body’s reaction to the presence of allergens (pollens, dust, molds, animal hair, smoke, etc.) The immune system responds by releasing histamines and other inflammation-causing chemicals in an attempt to rid the body of allergens. Symptoms include watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, rashes, itching. Fever does not usually accompany allergies.

• Itchy eyes, nose and throat are characteristics of allergies. Fever, sore throat, muscle aches are characteristic of upper respiratory infections.
• Allergy symptoms usually disappear when treated with antihistamines while fever, sore throat will not be affected.
• Allergy symptoms are usually worse in the morning during the spring and summer when pollen counts are high.
• Upper respiratory infections are usually gone in about 14 days. Allergies linger longer.

When should you get medical advice?

Many illness start out with the same symptoms as colds and flu. If you have any of the following symptoms, have your health evaluated at the Health Center or another medical facility:

• Fever over 101 F for 24 hours
• Difficulty breathing
• Sore throat lasting more than 4 days with gargling
• Ear ache
• A cough which produces mucous, lasts for more than a week and makes it hard to breathe
• Anything else that doesn't seem right

Prevention

• Wash your hands frequently; between classes, before you eat, if you have been around others who are sick. Avoid touching your hands to your face. Washing your hands may be your best prevention against bacteria and viruses!
• SLEEP! Sleep is the time your body uses to recover from the day and get ready for what the next day has to offer. If you are sleep deprived, you put yourself at higher risk for getting sick.
• Eat a well balanced diet.
• Maintain a regular exercise program.
• Keep your distance from others who are sick.
• Don’t smoke. Smoking lowers resistance to all respiratory infections.

Flu FAQ

Each of us plays a critical role in keeping our campus safe and healthy. Students and employees are encouraged to use these FAQs and other resources on the Student Health, Wellness, and Counseling Center (SHWCC) web site to learn how to prevent the spread of the influenza virus, what to do if you are ill, and who to contact for assistance.

If you have questions not addressed by these FAQs, please email questions to SHWCC@linfield.edu or contact the SHWCC at 503-883-2535 or your personal health care provider.

How can I prevent the spread of influenza?

The best prevention for all types of influenza is to receive influenza immunizations (see “Immunizations” below). In addition, adopt these effective preventative measures:

• Wash hands frequently, especially after coughing or sneezing. Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and warm water are unavailable.
• Sanitize hard surfaces such as tables, desks, and doorknobs frequently. You can use household disinfecting wipes or spray disinfectants that kill bacteria and viruses.
• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your sleeve, not your hands.
• Practice social distancing by avoiding large groups and contact with people who are ill.
• Stay home when you are ill – protecting others and taking care of yourself. Contact your professors to coordinate missed work.
• Try to avoid close contact with people who are ill.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Should I get immunized?

Yes, the best prevention of influenza is to receive influenza immunizations.

Influenza immunizations are available from the SHWCC on the McMinnville campus, and from your personal health care provider or local urgent care clinic. Immunizations are available to students, faculty and staff, and dependents ages 18 and older.

How can I tell if I have influenza?

Symptoms of the influenza virus include a sudden onset of fever or chills AND a cough or sore throat. Symptoms may also include a runny nose, body aches, headache, tiredness, diarrhea, or vomiting.

Where can I go if I think I might have influenza?

• Please contact the SHWCC at 503-883-2535 in Walker 103, Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM to noon, and 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.
• After hours, students may contact the Physicians Medical Center at 503-472-6161, or
• McMinnville Immediate Care at 503-435-1077, or
• Willamette Valley Medical Center (hospital) at 503-472-6131.

What should I do if I get sick with influenza?

Ill students are advised to stay home (or in their residence hall rooms) for at least 24 hours after the fever subsides (without use of fever-reducing medicine).

Individuals who are ill with influenza should not leave their homes or residence hall rooms except to get medical care.

Students with a fever should not return to classes or public areas until their temperature has returned to near normal for at least 24 hours. Do seek medical attention if your condition worsens.

Notify your health care provider or SHWCC at 503-883-2535 early in the course of the illness.

There are antiviral medications which may help, but need to be started within two days of developing symptoms.

Avoid Contact with Others

If you do leave your house or residence hall room while you are contagious in order to obtain medical care, it is advisable to wear a facemask to prevent the spread of the virus. Facemasks are available to students from their Resident Advisors. In general, you should avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness, especially to people at increased risk of severe illness from influenza.

How can I protect myself and my community?

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
• Use alcohol-based hand cleaners if soap and water are unavailable. (It’s effective, but not as effective as hand-washing.)
• If you are sick and share a common space with others, wear a facemask.

Who should I contact if I have been diagnosed with influenza?

Please contact the SHWCC at 503-883-2535, even if you go to a health care provider off-campus. Contacting the SHWCC will help us monitor the flu on campus.

Please contact your professors and coaches to notify them IF YOU ARE diagnosed with the flu and will miss classes, practices, or games.

Notify your RA if you live on-campus via e-mail or phone.

What should I do if my roommate has influenza?

Contact your RA to get disinfectant materials to reduce germs in your room. It is important to disinfect shared surfaces often, such as computers, tables, and doorknobs. Continue to practice preventative actions such as washing your hands frequently and proper cough etiquette (coughing or sneezing into a tissue or your sleeve, not your hands). Roommates should consider wearing a mask when around the ill person. Roommates should call the SHWCC at 503-883-2535 or their primary care provider, to be evaluated for preventive medication.

What services are provided to students who have influenza or a flu-like illness?

The SHWCC can evaluate, test and prescribe medications and give appropriate self-care information to students with flu symptoms. The SHWCC has a supply of facemasks to help prevent the spread of germs.

Disinfectant supplies such as spray cleaner and hand sanitizer are available on campus. Students in residence halls can ask their Resident Advisor for cleaning materials for their rooms. RAs also have Care Kits for students who have influenza or flu-like symptoms. Contact your RA for a care kit.

Food service will be available for on-campus students who are sick with the flu. If you are self-isolating, contact your RA, GRD, or AD via e-mail or phone. Then, designate a roommate or other person who can pick up a one-day meal pack at Dillin and bring it back to you in your room. Be prepared to give them your name, ID number, and any dietary restrictions. Dining Services will make meal packets good for one day.

Wash your hands often

Washing your hands may be your best protection against the many viruses that cruise campus. The more you wash, the better, but specifically before you eat or touch your face and after you use toilet.

Correct handwashing technique:

• Wet hands and apply liquid or clean bar soap. Place the bar soap on a rack to allow it to drain.
• Rub your hands vigorously together and scrub all surfaces, especially under your nails.
• Continue for 15-30 seconds or about as long as it takes to sing the first verse of your favorite song. It is the soap combined with the scrubbing action that helps remove germs.
• Rinse well and dry your hands (paper towel is best.)
• Use the towel to turn off the water at the sink. Remember, you used your dirty hands to turn the water on!
• Use the towel to open the bathroom door. Did the people before you wash their hands?

Headaches are one of the most common health complaints. For most people, headaches are infrequent and annoying and they go away with rest or over-the-counter medications. Others may suffer from chronic headaches, or headaches which cause severe pain. Headaches are not completely understood by the medical community, but research has advanced a few theories. Many factors can play a role in chronic headaches.

There are three main types of headaches: muscle contraction, vascular and organic.

Muscle contraction headaches, or tension headaches, are usually associated with stress, exhaustion or anger. Muscles in the head and neck can contract and put pressure on nerves and blood vessels. Usually there is pain or tightness localized in the forehead, back of the neck or on the sides of the head. Some researchers have found a link between chronic muscular contraction headaches and depression.

Vascular headaches are caused by the constriction or dilation of blood vessels in the head. Headaches associated with alcohol, hunger, and eating foods with tyramine, are probably vascular in nature. Migraines, cluster and exertion headaches are also vascular. Migraines are chronic vascular headache that usually start with the person seeing a light haze or aura. Some people see shooting light. Migraines can last several days with severe pain, nausea, and blurred vision. Seventy percent of people with migraines are women. Migraines tend to run in families, may be associated with personality traits, and could be due to a biochemical imbalance causing vessels to contract or dilate.

Organic headaches are usually symptoms of some other health problem. High blood pressure, eyestrain, allergies, and sinus problems all can cause headaches. Usually, by treating the cause of the health problem, the headaches will disappear.

Triggers: Many factors are associated with the susceptibility to headaches, but triggers are what set them off. Headaches can be produced by one particular trigger or sometimes by a combination of triggers. By looking for patterns you can identify some personal triggers and try to avoid them. Frequent headache triggers include:

• Stress
• Sudden weather changes
• Hormonal changes caused by PMS, menstruation, birth control pills, pregnancy or menopause
• Missing a meal
• Exposure to bright light (especially fluorescent light or sunlight)
• Too little sleep
• Reaction to certain foods eaten within the last 24 hours
• Exposure to cigarette smoke, perfumes, or other strong odors
• Experiencing a letdown after stress
• Too much sleep
• Exercise or exertion
• Changing of the seasons (Spring and Fall are worst)
• Some medication
• Eyestrain
• Travel on planes, trains, cars or busses (especially in areas with poor circulation)

Treatment

Acetaminophen (Tylenol, etc.) and ibuprofen (Advil, etc.) are usually effective in treating occasional headaches. If you suffer from chronic headaches, you might start by keeping a log of your headaches and possible triggers, outlining the possible contributing factors. There are effective prescription medications for people who have chronic headaches, including migraines.

Symptoms to take seriously

If you have any of the following symptoms, consult your health care provider as soon as possible. You could be experiencing a medical emergency. If you get a very sudden and excruciating headache, unlike any you’ve ever had before, you need to get medical attention immediately. Other symptoms of concern include:

• A headache with a stiff neck, fever or rash
• Headaches that come on suddenly after coughing, straining or exertion
• Changes in vision (or other senses), double vision, increased weakness or loss of sensation
• General weakness or numbness or slurred speech
• Persistent or severe vomiting
• Persistent headaches that progressively worsen over days or weeks
• Headaches that start suddenly (especially if you’ve never had them before)
• Confusion or changes in memory, personality or behavior
• Unexplained fever or breathing problems that accompany a headache
• A sudden change in the severity of a headache
• A constant headache with no relief
• Experiencing three or more headaches a week
• Use of pain relievers every day or almost daily to relieve headache symptoms

Essential phone numbers

• Willamette Valley Medical Center: 503-472-6131
  • Open 24/7
• Physicians’ Medical Center: 503-472-6161
  • Doctor on call 24 hours a day
• Student Health Center: 503-883-2535
  • M-F, 9-5

Position Statement

We value breast/chestfeeding for the multitude of benefits it provides to the lactating person, children, families and communities. We recognize the unique challenges that come with being a student and a lactating person. We commit to support lactating students during their time at Linfield so that they may successfully meet their academic and lactation goals.

Lactation Rights & Responsibilities

Lactating Students' Rights

Lactating students are protected by federal and state laws. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, a federal education amendment enforced by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR), prohibits federally funded educational programs from discrimination of students based on sex, including pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting. Title IX requires educational institutions to provide reasonable accommodations and equal special services as provided to any other student with temporary medical conditions. See the following link for details and application.

• Supporting Pregnant & Parenting Students
• Know Your Rights: Title IX Protects You From Discrimination at School
• The Pregnant Scholar: Title IX Basics

Oregon state law also protects lactating people’s right to breastfeed in public without harassment. Visit here for additional State and Federal Breastfeeding Laws.

Student Responsibilities

Lactating students must contact the faculty connected with their classes and/or clinical or field experiences as soon as they are aware that they will need special services. It is also beneficial to contact the university lactation liaisons for guidance. To do this please contact McMinnville campus Human Resources department located in Melrose Room 109 or by calling 503-883-2594.

Linfield Responsibilities

Linfield must provide reasonable and equal accommodations and services to lactating students as would be provided to other students with temporary medical conditions. State and federal laws provide a partial framework for reasonable and essential accommodations, such as providing a private, secure room that is not a bathroom, and reasonable break times for expressing milk and/or breast/chestfeeding. Other accommodations will be specific to the student, such as keeping up with class due to missed time for lactation needs and making special arrangements for off campus learning at clinical or other practicums. Oregon state law also protects breastfeeding people’s right to breastfeed in public; this includes Linfield campuses.

Required accommodations:

• A private, secure room that is not a bathroom must be provided on campus and at off campus learning experiences.
• Reasonable break times for lactation needs must be granted.
• Communicate with student to minimize effect of any absences. This will differ according to the class, clinical or other off campus learning experience and/or program but must be consistent with what would be provided to students with other temporary medical conditions.

Suggested accommodations and support:

• Help student in off campus learning to find a contact person for lactation support and locate a place to store milk and supplies.
• Collaborate with student when assigning off campus learning experiences, such as clinical, to consider proximity to baby (distance from home); shift length; shift time (day vs nights).
• Consider allowing student to bring baby to classroom. Child separation can harm breast/chestfeeding.
• Help student choose seating that would minimize disruption and embarrassment when leaving for lactation breaks and provide enough space if breast/chestfeeding baby in class.
• When aware of having a lactating student in class, reduce the number but increase the length of classroom breaks. Pumping or breast/chestfeeding typically takes between 15 and 40 minutes. This would minimize the amount of missed class time.
• Provide other physical supports such as a specified refrigerator to store milk, lockers for storing pumping equipment, diaper changing table, and sink for washing equipment.
• When designating lactation rooms, consider the distance from the learning setting to the room. A nearby restroom is desirable.
• Consider allowing student to video or audio record missed class time.
• Help student connect with other lactating students.
• Include the recommended statement in course syllabi: We commit to supporting lactating students during their time at Linfield so that they may successfully meet their academic and lactation goals. See the Student Policy Guide for a description of lactating students’ rights and how to access support.
• Lactation Liaisons will send university wide emails with Student Lactation Policy link at the start and the middle of each semester for introduction, increased awareness, and invitation to connect.
• Lactation Liaisons maintain Linfield Lactating Students Facebook group.

Lactation Program Details

Private Lactation Spaces

Portland Campus: There is a private room on campus that is reserved specifically for lactating students. It is in Building 5 in a private room inside the student nurses’ lounge. It remains unlocked when not in use and may be accessed any time or day of the week. The room may be locked when in use to ensure privacy. Please sign in so that usage may be tracked.

It is furnished with a comfortable chair, electrical outlets, lockers, diaper changing table, refrigerator for milk storage, and wipes for cleaning. A bathroom and sink are near the room.

McMinnville Campus: There are two private, secured room on campus that students may use for pumping milk. One is location in Jereld R. Nicholson Library; this quiet and calming space is aligned with Library hours and is located a short distance from the library entrance. Please retrieve the key from the circulation desk. There are also lockers available for semester-long rental for pumps, blankets, or other personal items. The other lactation room is in Melrose Hall and is furnished with a comfortable chair and electrical outlets. The room is unlocked between 8:00-4:30, M-F unless in use by students. If other hours or days are needed, contact the Human Resources office.

Milk Storage

Portland Campus: Students may use the lactation room refrigerator to store their milk. Students are responsible for labeling, dating, and securing their milk containers – Linfield University is not responsible for milk stored in the refrigerator.

McMinnville Campus: Students may contact the Lactation Liaison to locate a refrigerator to store milk. Students are responsible for labeling, dating, and securing their milk containers. Linfield University is not responsible for milk stored in the refrigerator.

Lactation Breaks from Class, Labs, and on Campus Clinical

Portland Campus and McMinnville Campus:

Students must contact their course or clinical faculty to disclose the need to be excused to breast/chestfeed or express milk. Students should make reasonable efforts to express milk between classes or outside of instruction time. In addition, students should use regular break times for part of lactation breaks. Milk expression and/or breast/chestfeeding requires varying lengths of time depending on the person and circumstances. An expected range is between 15 and 40 minutes using a non-hospital grade electric pump. Linfield places no restriction on the amount of time or frequency a student may need if that time is spent in the process of pumping or breast/chestfeeding.

Students may feel reluctant to excuse themselves to pump or breast/chestfeed for fear of missing information or experiences, or from feeling awkward or disruptive. Students are responsible for communicating needs to course faculty, such as selective seating, class recording (must have faculty consent), bringing baby to class (must have faculty consent), or other strategies for success. Faculty are responsible for offering reasonable accommodations and treating the request in the same manner as requests for any short-term medical need.

Breastfeeding Locations

Breast/chestfeeding in the classroom, labs or campus clinical

Portland and McMinnville Campus: If students desire to breast/chestfeed baby in the classroom, lab, or on campus clinical, they must contact course faculty for permission and logistics. Helpful accommodations include securing a spacious and comfortable seat with ease of entry and exit. Some considerations include safety and setting.

Breast/chestfeeding in Linfield University public spaces

Title IX prohibits harassment related to sex, including breastfeeding. Oregon state law further protects against harassment when breastfeeding in public. In addition, Linfield University encourages, values, and supports breast/chestfeeding in any of our public spaces.

Breast/chestfeeding off campus during educational experiences (clinical, practicums, internships, etc.)

Portland Campus: The student is responsible for contacting clinical faculty and the IEL coordinator as soon as possible to plan for pumping or breast/chestfeeding at the site. The IEL coordinator and faculty will work together to provide reasonable accommodations, treating the request as any other temporary medical need. Sufficient breaks and a private room for pumping or breast/chestfeeding are required provisions. This may not be a bathroom. Strategies might include selecting a preferred site and/or shift to improve ease of breast/chestfeeding or pumping and locating key supporters at clinical.

The student is responsible for communicating lactation needs to clinical faculty or RN staff, such as planning pumping breaks, and patient coverage while on breaks.

Milk expression and/or breast/chestfeeding requires varying lengths of time depending on the person and circumstances. An expected range is between 15 and 40 minutes using a non-hospital grade electric pump. Linfield places no restriction on the amount of time or frequency a student may need if that time is spent in the process of pumping or breast/chestfeeding. As much as possible, students should use regular break times (perhaps combined) and lunch to cover some of the time needed for lactation. Students remain responsible for meeting course outcomes and are encouraged to talk with clinical faculty to discuss strategies for meeting course outcomes and lactation goals.

McMinnville Campus: The student is responsible for contacting course faculty as soon as possible to plan for pumping or breast/chestfeeding at the site. The faculty will work to provide reasonable accommodations, treating the request as any other temporary medical need. Sufficient breaks and a private room for pumping or breast/chestfeeding are required provisions. This may not be a bathroom. Strategies might include selecting a preferred practicum site and schedule to improve ease of breast/chestfeeding or pumping and locating key supporters.

The student is responsible for communicating lactation needs to appropriate people at the site.

Milk expression and/or breast/chestfeeding requires varying lengths of time depending on the person and circumstances. An expected range is between 15 and 40 minutes using a non-hospital grade electric pump. Linfield places no restriction on the amount of time or frequency a student may need if that time is spent in the process of pumping or breast/chestfeeding. As much as possible, students should use regular break times (perhaps combined) and lunch to cover some of the time needed for lactation. Students remain responsible for meeting course outcomes and are encouraged to talk with faculty to discuss strategies for meeting course outcomes and breastfeeding goals.

Online : The student is responsible for contacting course faculty as soon as possible to plan for expressing milk or breast/chestfeeding when engaged with in-person learning. The faculty will work to provide reasonable accommodations, treating the request as any other temporary medical need. Sufficient breaks and a private room for pumping or breast/chestfeeding are required provisions. This may not be a bathroom.

The student is responsible for communicating lactation needs to appropriate people. Strategies might include selecting a preferred practicum site and schedule to improve ease of breast/chestfeeding or pumping and locating key supporters.

Pumping and/or breast/chestfeeding requires varying lengths of time depending on the person and circumstances. An expected range is between 15 and 40 minutes using a non-hospital grade electric pump. Linfield places no restriction on the amount of time or frequency a student may need if that time is spent in the process of pumping or breast/chestfeeding. As much as possible, students should use regular break times (perhaps combined) and lunch to cover some of the time needed for lactation. Students remain responsible for meeting course outcomes and are encouraged to talk with clinical faculty to discuss strategies for meeting course outcomes and lactation goals.

Lactation Resources & Reporting

Lactation Liaison

Students are encouraged to contact the Lactation Liaison to discuss resources, preparation, process, strategies, goals, or other concerns as soon as they know they will need lactation support. The Lactation Liaison can help the student anticipate and plan as there are common concerns and challenges among lactating students. The Lactation Liaison is available to support the student for the duration of lactation while at Linfield. To get assistance, please contact McMinnville campus Human Resources department located in Melrose Room 109 or by calling 503-883-2594.

Lactation Educational Resources

A list of resources is posted in the lactation room, on Facebook, and within this policy. These resources include, but are not limited to:

• La Leche League International – Find lactation information and local support, including lactation consultants.
• CDC – Includes guidelines, recommendations, common questions and answers, statistics, and more
• Nursing Mothers Council – Provides free lactation help by phone, email or in person.
• United States Lactation Consultant Association – How to find a local lactation consultant.
• Office on Women’s Health – A wealth of information about lactating– how to get started, milk storage, getting a good latch, pumping and storing, and much more!
• Title IX and student rights: Supporting Pregnant & Parenting Students; Know Your Rights: Title IX Protects You From Discrimination at School; The Pregnant Scholar: Title IX Basics
• State and Federal laws to protect lactating people.
• Health Care Benefits Coverage for Lactation
• American Academy of Pediatricians position statement on breastfeeding

Student Peer Support

There is a sign in sheet and a journal for connecting with each other in the lactation room. In addition, there is a Linfield Lactating Students Facebook group. This group is for any Linfield student who is breast/chestfeeding. This will allow for students on all campuses to connect for support. If more assistance is needed to make connections, contact the Lactation Liaisons, Cheryl Langford at clangfor@linfield.edu or Naomi Pitcock, npitcock@linfield.edu

Challenges, Harassment, Non-Support, Reporting

Students needing additional support are encouraged to contact the Lactation Liaison and course or clinical faculty to discuss and make reasonable changes in accommodations. Linfield is bound by Title IX to treat breast/chestfeeding students’ needs in the same manner as any other temporary medical condition. Any member of the Linfield University community may report a violation of this policy to any faculty or administrator. Faculty and administrators must then bring the violation to the Title IX Coordinator. See the Student Policy Guide, Anti-Harassment section for reporting details. It is requested that the violation also be brought to the Lactation Liaisons for follow up and improvements.

Policy Publication

The Linfield University Lactation Support Policy will be published in the Student Policy Guide. It may be published in other places at discretion of faculty, staff, or administrators. These include but are not limited to: course syllabi and orientations, lactation rooms, commuter lounges, Student Life offices, counseling offices, health clinic, Learning Support Services offices, the Registrar’s Offices, recruitment materials, University electronic newsletters, bathrooms, new employee orientation materials, Linfield Lactating Students Facebook page, and the Linfield website.

Meningococcal disease, or Meningitis, is a potentially life-threatening infection caused by a bacteria. Early symptoms may be nonspecific, as with many infections, but the characteristic symptoms that necessitate prompt medical attention include: sudden onset of high fever combined with a severe headache, neck stiffness, or a smooth, purplish rash that doesn’t change color when pressed. When we are sick, we don’t always recognize the severity of symptoms ourselves. If you hear a roommate or friend complain of the characteristic symptoms, suggest they seek prompt medical attention.

Meningococcal disease is caused by 5 serogroups of bacteria: A, B, C, Y and W-135. A vaccine is available to protect against 4 serogroups (A, C, Y, W-135.) The current vaccine does not cover serotype B, the most common subtype causing disease in Oregon. However, it is recommended that students get vaccinated prior to attending Linfield.

The key points to remember with meningitis are:

• If you have the following symptoms, get checked immediately by a health care practitioner: high fever (101° F or higher) combined with a severe headache, neck stiffness, or a smooth purplish rash.
• Treatment for meningitis is available. It is necessary to recognize the symptoms and receive prompt medical attention.
• if you are interested in receiving the vaccine, call Student Health Wellness and Counseling at 503-883-2535.
• Use of alcohol and other drugs and active and passive smoking may increase your risk

Our favorite self-care sites

• Go Ask Alice - questions and answers to many health questions.
• Medicinenet - good database for lots of health info.
• Familydoctor.org - patient handouts from the American Academy of Family Physicians
• American Academy of Family Practice - has wonderful self help sites.

Counseling self-help resources

There are several good information sources online. By listing them, we are saying only that they provide information. They do not substitute for counseling or therapy. Our listing does not imply endorsement of all the information which is included. Be your own judge of what is reasonable and what is not. Once you have done some exploring, you may want to bring the results and talk them over with a counselor.

• American Psychological Association (Psychology in Everyday Life)
• American Psychiatric Association (Public Information)
• Study skills help: Linfield Learning Support Services
• Career information: Linfield Career and Life Design
• For Health and Human Sexuality Questions— Go Ask Alice
• ULifeline, "The online behavioral support system for young adults"

L.A.B. & Student Health, Wellness & Counseling Mindfulness Videos

• Guided Wellness: Arrival Activity
• Guided Wellness: Cognitive Defusion
• Guided Wellness: Five Senses Scan
• Guided Wellness: Self Compassion

Sexual Health & STIs

General Symptoms

• The number one symptom is NO symptom
• Irritation: itches, pain, rash, tenderness around the vagina, penis, rectum
• Unusual, smelly, colored discharge from the vagina or penis
• Blisters, sores, chancres, lumps, warts, polyps around the genitals
• Some STI’s have no initial symptoms, so all the more important to talk to your health care provider about your possible exposure

Diagnoses

Most commonly used test for STIs is a simple urine test, by a physical examination, or in some cases a blood test is done. A PAP smear tests for the presence of cancer-causing cells and is not designed to diagnose STIs. All are available at the Student Health, Wellness & Counseling Center by appointment.

Safer Sex

• Use condoms and water-based lubricant not only to prevent pregnancy, but also to prevent transmission of most infections. The pill does not provide any protection against STIs.
• Limit the number of sexual partners you have and try to get to know your partners' past sexual and drug use history. Be open about your concerns.
• High risk drinking is considered a risk factor for contracting STIs
• Get tested before have sex with a new partner(s)
• If you are diagnosed with an infection, tell your partner(s). They may also need treatment.
• Though there are ways to reduce your risk and practice safer sex, abstinence is the only truly safe method

Testing & Treatment

• Linfield Student Health Wellness & Counseling: 503-883-2535
• Yamhill County Health Department: 503-883-7525
• Your family doctor or other local health clinics
• Cascade AIDS Project: 503-223-5907

Hotlines & Websites

• National STD Hotline (M-F 8 a.m.-11 p.m.): 1-800-227-8922
• AIDS Information Hotline (24hr): 1-800-342-AIDS
• Oregon AIDS Hotline: 1-800-777-AIDS
• Herpes Hotline: 1-919-361-8488
• I Wanna Know
• CDC National Prevention Information Network

Reproductive Rights

Resources

• Bedsider
• I Wanna Know
• Love Matters
• Planned Parenthood
• Society for Adolescent Health & Medicine

Nurses at the Student Health Center believe that lack of sleep is one of the main contributing factors to health problems in college students. Recent research even confirms that if you get sleep after studying for a test, even a couple of hours, the chances of remembering what you studied are greater. So, to improve your health and possibly your academics — GET ENOUGH SLEEP! The following information is intended to help you get back on track to getting enough sleep. Feel free to make an appointment at the Health Center if you continue to have problems.

How much sleep do you need?

Sleep needs vary from person to person. Some need only four hours per night, but others seem to need 10. Some people complain because they sleep "only" five or six hours each night. Yet many of these people awake rested in the morning and function well during the day. Five or six hours of sleep is all they need most of the time. They don't have insomnia. Other people feel tired after eight hours of sleep. They need more than the "normal" seven to eight hour average. Just one more hour of sleep often gives these people the rest they need. Experiment to find the amount of sleep you need. Remember, too, that the amount of sleep you need will vary. Your need for sleep may decrease and your ability to go to sleep may improve when you are exercising regularly and doing things you enjoy and do easily. You may need more sleep and experience more sleeplessness if you are under more stress or as you become less active (e.g., move from an active to a sedentary job, return to the more sedentary role of student after an active summer).

Five Basic Strategies

1. Never oversleep: Never oversleep because of a poor night's sleep. This is the most crucial rule. Get up at about the same time every day, especially on the morning after you've lost sleep. Sleeping late for just a couple of days can reset your body clock to a different cycle -- you'll be getting sleepy later and waking up later.
2. Set your body clock: Light helps restart your body clock to its active daytime phase. So when you get up, go outside and get some sunlight. Or if that's difficult, turn on all the lights in your room.
   1. Then walk around for a few minutes. The calves of your legs act as pumps and get blood circulating, carrying more oxygen to your brain to help get you going.
3. Exercise: Keep physically active during the day. This is especially important the day after a bad night's sleep. When you sleep less, you should be more active during the day. Being less active is one of the worst things an insomniac can do.
   1. Strenuous exercise (brisk walking, swimming, jogging, squash, etc.) in late afternoon seems to promote more restful sleep. Also, insomniacs tend to be too inactive a couple of hours before bed. Do some gentle exercise. A stretching routine has helped many people.
4. Don’t Nap: Do not take any naps the day after you've lost sleep. When you feel sleepy, get up and do something. Walk, make the bed, or do your errands. While studying, get up regularly (every 30 minutes, or more often if necessary) to walk around your room. Do a gentle stretch. That will increase the flow of oxygen to your brain and help you to be more alert.
5. Set a bedtime schedule using these two steps: First, try to go to bed at about the same time every night. Be regular. Most people get hungry at 7 a.m., noon, and 6 p.m. because they've eaten at those times for years. Going to bed at about the same time every night can make sleep as regular as hunger. Second, go to bed later when you are having trouble sleeping. If you're only getting five hours of sleep a night during your insomnia period, don't go to bed until just five hours before your wake-up time. For instance, if you've been waking up at 7 a.m., don't go to bed until 2 a.m. No naps! Make the time you spend in bed sleep time. Still some insomnia? Go to bed proportionately later. Then, as your time in bed becomes good sleep time, move your going-to-bed time back 15 to 30 minutes a night and do that for a week or so. This is the opposite of what we want to do: we want to go to bed earlier to make up the lost sleep. Learn to do what many sleep laboratories teach -- go to bed later the night after losing sleep.

Additional Strategies

• Develop a bedtime routine: Stop studying and don't get into any stimulating discussions or activities a half hour or hour before bed. Do something that's relaxing -- read "light" material, play your guitar, listen to music that is quiet, catch a mindless TV show. Some people sleep better in a clean and neat environment, so they like to straighten and clean their room just before going to bed. Find your own sleep-promoting routine.
• Warm bath, yes; shower, no: Take a long, hot bath before going to bed. This helps relax and soothe your muscles. Showers, on the other hand, tend to wake you up. Insomniacs should avoid showers in the evening.
• Keep a pad and pencil handy: If you think of something you want to remember, jot it down. Then let the thought go. There will be no need to lie awake worrying about remembering it.
• Stretch and relaxation: Some people find that a gentle stretching routine for several minutes just before getting into bed helps induce sleep. Others practice relaxation techniques. Libraries or bookstores have books on developing stretching or relaxation routines. The Health Center and Counseling Office have some material on both.
• To eat or not to eat: Some sleep centers recommend a light breakfast and lunch to help you stay alert during the day. They advise you to make the evening meal the major meal of the day. Schedule it at least four hours before bedtime so your digestive system will be reasonably quiet by the time you're ready to sleep.
• Warm milk?: It helps some people to have a glass at bedtime. Milk has an essential amino acid, tryptophan, which stimulates the brain chemical serotonin, believed to play a key role in inducing sleep. A piece of whole wheat bread, or another carbohydrate, enhances the effect. Or try taking tryptophan, beginning with about two grams about an hour before bedtime. A piece of wheat bread will help the tryptophan to be absorbed.
• Avoid caffeine and tyrosine-rich foods from late afternoon on: Caffeine, a chemical in coffee, colas, tea, chocolate, etc., causes hyperactivity and wakefulness. Some sleep laboratories encourage people to avoid such tyrosine-laden foods as fermented cheeses (cheddar is about the worst; cottage cheese and yogurt are OK), ripe avocados, some imported beers, and fermented meats (bologna, pepperoni, salami). Also avoid red wines, especially chianti.
• Cut down on alcohol: Alcohol might help you get to sleep, but it results in shallow and disturbed sleep, abnormal dream periods, and frequent early morning awakening.
• Sleeping pills: Reasons to avoid sleeping pills include disturbed sleep patterns, short-term amnesia, and impaired motor skills. Research shows that benzodiazepine hypnotics, the most commonly prescribed sleeping pills, impair short-term memory, reaction time, thinking, and visual-motor coordination (such as driving).
• Room temperature: Sleep in a cool room (60 degrees or so). Pile on another blanket or add one under the mattress pad rather than turn up the heat. A physician used this principle while in medical school; he kept an air conditioner on in his room all year. He said it helped him sleep better so that he needed less sleep. You don't need to go to such extremes, but do keep it cool. Humidity: Even a little thing like a dry throat may make sleeping more difficult. Most heating systems dry the air in your bedroom, so borrow a humidifier to see if it will help. Keeping heat down and having a window open can also keep humidity up.
• Noise: Some people seem to sleep better if there is quiet noise -- a fan running, for example -- in the background. For others, noise can interrupt sleep. In addition to the fan strategy, try particular kinds of music to blot out the noise. Play a recording of music that has no words, no definite melody, and not a lot of change in the volume. Baroque music is a good choice. There are many tapes of sounds that aid sleep by quieting the mind, emotions, and body. Check at the Counseling Office or at the Health. If desperate, you might try ear plugs that workers use on noisy jobs. If you use cotton, be sure to use balls large enough that they won't work down into your ear canal and have to be removed by a physician.
• Worrying about insomnia?: Focusing on insomnia might make it worse. It is frequently a symptom of something else like excessive worry or anxiety about grades, money, relationships, etc. If you think a particular worry might be keeping you awake, get up, find paper and a pencil, and jot down something you can do about that worry tomorrow. Put the note where you'll see it when you wake up. You can set aside your worry and use the remainder of the night for restful sleep. If necessary, use the strategies already described to get back into a regular sleep pattern.
• In bed and unable to sleep?: If you are in bed and unable to sleep, many experts suggest getting completely out of bed, sitting in a chair, and reading, writing letters, or doing some quiet activity. As you get sleepy, go back to bed and use a relaxation technique to fall asleep. Make your bed a place to sleep, not a place to get other things done. Don't get mad at yourself! Try not to worry about not sleeping. Your body's wisdom will take over and you'll begin sleeping regularly as long as you use the five basic strategies described earlier.
• Exercising?: The role of exercise cannot be stressed enough! Adding regular has helped many people sleep better. The more active your body is during the day, the more likely it is that you'll be able to go to sleep when it's time for your body to be quiet. Quiet time for sleep needs to be a contrast to a more active day.
• Waking up at night?: What should you do when you're awake after just two, three, or four hours of sleep? Do not drink, eat, or smoke when you wake up. If you do, you'll find yourself waking up for them after just three or four nights of such treats. Do get out of bed, read, write letters, or do some quiet activity. Reactions to the stresses of everyday life can result in a level of sleep that is easily interrupted. A good stress-management program can help. Contact the Counseling Office for such a program.
• Awake 4 or 5 AM? Now what?: Get up and begin the day. If you're rested, you've probably had enough sleep and have a head start on most people. If you're still tired, get up anyway and go through the day, avoiding naps. Start the routines suggested in the basic strategies. Build an exercise program and stress-management training into your life. By learning to be less stressed during the day, you also learn to sleep better at night.
• Not managing stress very well?: Difficulty in effectively managing normal, everyday stress in life is a common problem. A frequent reaction to daily stresses is insomnia, either sleep-onset insomnia or sleep-interrupting insomnia. A good stress-management program helps you learn how to manage those frequent stress's and go more easily through each day. You can find out about stress-management programs from counseling centers, local guidance and mental health centers, extension agencies, and family physicians. More and more hospitals are offering such programs to help people develop healthier lifestyles.

Sources of Help

• Exercise: Swimming and Water Aerobics classes are often offered through campus and community pool. Aerobics classes, which feature some of the best forms of exercise, may be offered at noon and at other times also through HA on campus and at gyms and the Community Centers in town. Students have free access, at scheduled hours, to step, exercycles, and conditioning machines at the Weight Room.
• Stress management training: Offered at the Counseling Office in Walker Hall and an HHP Class. Counseling regarding academic, personal, or social concerns is available at the Linfield Counseling Office. Training in academic skills is available through the Learning Support Services.
  Perhaps you have allergies or other physical problems that interfere with your sleep. Consult the Health Center if the above strategies don't help.

*Originally written in 1989 by David G. Danskin, Ph.D., University Counseling Services, KSU; adapted and modified in 1997 by Dorinda Lambert, Ph.D. for use on the Internet.

• Center for Discovery
• Eating Recovery Center
• The Meadows Ranch
• National Eating Disorders Associations

Different social media platforms have different policies and procedures for restricting who sees you and how they can interact with you. If you are concerned about your visibility in social media, there are steps you can take to help protect yourself. The links below point to different program's instructions.

Adjusting your privacy settings

Everyone should check this regularly. Different platforms have different rules on which posts are public and private. Make sure you know who can see what you post!

• Facebook Privacy Settings Overview
• Instagram Privacy Settings
• Twitter/X Privacy Settings - Protecting and Unprotecting your Tweets
• SnapChat Change your Privacy Settings
• WhatsApp Privacy Settings
• Linkedin Privacy Settings

Blocking/unfriending people

• Blocking and Unfriending on Facebook
• Blocking People on Instagram
• Blocking Accounts in Twitter/X
• Deleting and Blocking Friends in SnapChat
• Blocking People on WhatsApp
• Blocking or Unblocking a LinkedIn Member

Disabling location services

Features like Snap Map or Location Services in Facebook allow you to share your location with friends and maybe former friends; or the person looking over your friend's shoulder in Starbucks.

• Snap Map Location Settings
• Location Services in Facebook

Reporting fake profiles

If a fake profile (Impersonation Account) has been created with your name, report the profile to the service that is hosting it.

• Report a Fake Profile in Facebook
• Report an Impersonation Account in Instagram
• Report an Impersonation Account in Twitter/X
• Reporting Fake Profiles in Linkedin

Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)/SMS Verification

Enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) or “SMS Verification” for all social media accounts will prevent someone from taking your password and logging in from their computer or phone. Consider avoiding your phone displaying text message content on the screen without unlocking your phone.

All major social media platforms support 2FA, and this is very important to consider for protecting your privacy if someone is trying to spy on you during a relationship or after a break-up. Here are links to all major social media’s 2FA information pages:

• Snapchat
• Google
• Facebook
• Twitter/X
• WhatsApp
• Instagram