“Sexual Health is a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being related to sexuality, not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction, or infirmity (World Sexual Health Day, 2023).”
- WHO (World Health Organization)
More often than not, we tend to equate the meaning of sexual well-being to the absence of disease. However, sexual health transcends the absence of disease and focuses on the presence of good reproductive health, emotional and psychological well-being, positive sexual experiences, sufficient sexual education, healthy relationships, and a respectful approach to each one’s sexuality. As sexual health is a significant component of our holistic well-being, each one of us must value and nurture our sexual well-being.
Around the globe, September 4th is celebrated as World Sexual Health Day annually to raise awareness and promote the importance of sexual well-being. On this occasion, we can assess and enhance our sexual well-being by using the below checklist.
Sexual Education: Be aware of sexual health through reliable sources and have a basic understanding of reproductive health, anatomy, and contraception.
Consent: Ensure that any sexual activity you engage in should be consensual between all parties involved. It is never too late to say “no.”
Open Communication: Maintain honest and transparent communication about boundaries, concerns, and desires with all parties involved.
Emotional well-being: Foster good emotional well-being as it contributes significantly to fulfilling and satisfying sexual experiences.
Safe Sex Practices: Use protection to reduce the risk of STIs and unintentional pregnancies.
Safe Online Practices: While engaging in virtual sexual activities, proceed with caution and protect your privacy.
Self-exams: Perform self-exams frequently for conditions like breast and testicular cancer.
Inclusivity: Accept and equip a respectful approach towards each other’s sexual orientations and gender identities.
Professional Help: If you are not able to overcome any sexual health concerns, consult a therapist, specialist, or healthcare provider for guidance and treatment.
In today’s society, sexual health and sexuality are still taboo subjects in many places of the world. We should promote awareness about the importance of sexual health to break those taboos created by society. Everybody should prioritize sexual health to facilitate their overall growth and development. By prioritizing, we benefit ourselves and contribute to a more informed and fulfilling society.
References
1. World Sexual Health Day. (2023). Who. int. https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2023/09/04/default-calendar/world-sexual-health-day