When we become sexually active, we have to take certain steps to maintain our Sexual Health.
What does it mean to be sexually healthy?
Concerning sexual health, we tend to think of preventing sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) first. Whilst historically this was the understanding of what “sexual health” means, the definition is narrow, does not take into consideration other factors: Being sexually healthy means more than the absence of negative consequences from sexual intercourse. It includes the presence of pleasure and safety in an individual’s sex life as well.
The World Health Organization (WHO) defined sexual health in 1974 as “…a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled.” (WHO, 2006a)
Based on this, sexual health is about physical, emotional and mental wellbeing in relation to sexual matters.
Self-responsibility in Sexual Health
We are responsible for our bodies, and the choices we make for them. We have the right to decide when, where, and with whom we would like to be sexual. It is your responsibility to create a vision of your sexual health and certain rules to maintain it. It will help to keep in mind the following aspects that need to be considered to maintain your sexual health successfully:
- Open communication
Whether you are having sex with one partner or several different ones, keep the communication open and honest. Honesty starts with yourself: Are you willing to explore your sexual health? What satisfies you sexually? Is there something you need in general, and what from your sex partner? What are you not enjoying?
Once you can answer these questions, communicating your needs, thoughts and desires becomes easier. If you encounter a sexual topic that makes you step back, check in with yourself what comes up and address it with both honesty and vulnerability.
Both you and your partner should consent to any sexual activity, meaning: you both agree to have sex and all actions that will be taken during the intercourse. If you and your sex partner’s values are different, again, communicate openly to find a solution that ensures pleasure for everyone involved.
- Pleasure
Experiencing pleasure can be the motivation to have sex – whether with yourself or a partner. Just like in any other aspect of life, it is about give and take. Given that everyone has different preferences and definitions of sexual pleasure, explore your own body to get to know it better and find out what a sex partner can contribute to your pleasure in a sexually healthy way.
- Risk evaluation
Remember that substance intake and drinking alcohol lower inhibition and increase potential risk-taking behaviour. The more “risky” sex you decide to have, the more your Sexual Health might be at risk.
- Regular STD testing
Not every teenager receives sex education in school which reduces exposure to knowledge about STD and HIV prevention, and contraception. If you have questions, you can find answers here, or whilst speaking to your doctor. Be proactive in learning about what you might not know yet.
STDs are passed from one person to another during sex. You might not show any symptoms and, therefore, not know whether you have an STD. If there is an infection, you must get treatment and advice on how to stay healthy.
- Contraception
Contraception affects both you and your partner, so you are both responsible for it.
Practising Safe Sex means reducing the contact with our sex partners’ body fluids such as blood and sperm. Preventing unwanted pregnancy plays a role, too.
Condoms, when used correctly, help protect against both STDs and pregnancy at once. Whichever your gender identity, you are responsible for you and your sex partners’ protection during sex: Condoms easily fit in a small pocket and are obtainable in almost every supermarket without having to consult a doctor or require a prescription.
If you think that you can benefit from professional support on this issue you can reach out here.
Franziska Richter is a transcultural counsellor with the Willingness Team, offering counselling sessions to individuals and couples. She is particularly interested in sexuality, relationship issues, trauma and general mental health.
References
https://www.palmscheme.gov.au/sites/default/files/2023-12/Sexual%20health%20-%20English.pdf