It’s not always easy to talk about, and for a long time, discussing sexual health has been considered taboo. Thankfully, in 2010, the World Association for Sexual Health declared September as Sexual Health Awareness Month.
So, to recognize this month, our team at Obstetricians & Gynecologists, PC, is delving into what sexual health is and why it’s so important.
The term “sexual health” covers a wide range of issues. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), sexual health is a state of physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being in relation to sexuality — not just the absence of disease.
Sexual health requires a positive, respectful, and safe approach to sexual experience, free of violence and coercion. A positive sexual experience includes maximum enjoyment for you and your partner while focusing on reducing or eliminating health risks through education and preparation.
Good sexual health relies on several factors working together, including a positive environment, access to education and health care, and knowledge of the risks of unprotected sex.
Most don’t realize this, but sexual health is essential to your overall health and wellness. How you care for yourself sexually can have a significant impact on your quality of life, both physically and emotionally.
When you hear sexual health, you likely think of the health class you took in grade school, especially the shocking images of the effects of STDs and cheesy videos explaining contraceptive options.
But the physical side of sexual health is impossible to deny. One study showed that simply educating youths before they become sexually active goes a long way toward preventing disease transmission and unplanned pregnancies.
The other goal of sexual health awareness is to help our patients have positive sexual experiences. Sexual assault and violence are and have been a serious problem. About 90% of adult rape victims are women, and at least 1 of 6 men has been sexually abused or assaulted.
Sexual health awareness seeks to reduce these tragic experiences by providing the education and support necessary for you to establish healthy sexual behaviors.
Supporting your sexual health isn’t always easy. In fact, it can be incredibly complicated, especially if you’ve experienced sexual trauma in the past. But our experts are here to give you a few helpful tips so you can be confident in your sexual wellness. Here are a few things to consider.
Safe sex comes in all different shapes and sizes these days. We encourage you and your partner to find the method that works best for you. From condoms and IUDs to contraceptive shots and pills, we can help you decide which mode of sexual protection is best for you.
A variety of sexual health issues can keep you from your best sex life, including but not limited to pelvic pain, polycystic ovary syndrome, and menopause. A key part of your sexual health is being open and proactive when it comes to treating and managing these issues. Be sure to talk to us about any changes you notice or concerns you have about your sexual health.
Being safe sexually isn’t just about physical protection. Make sure you’ve established a clear line of communication with your partner so you both feel safe.
Looking for more information about sexual health? We’d love to talk with you. Call or click to schedule an appointment at either our Hastings or Grand Island, Nebraska, location today.
