Sexual Health and Wellness

Whenever people talk about health and related issues, many miss out on one important aspect of our bodies. While people are comfortable talking about various health problems and topics, they often feel shy talking about sexual health. Even though sex is a natural part of our lives and contributes to our overall well-being. Physical and emotional benefits can be obtained through sex, including a lower risk of heart condition, better self-esteem, and more.

What is sexual health?

When people hear the word “sexual health,” they can assume it only applies to avoiding an unintended pregnancy or preventing Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). Although these areas are important, sexual health is a broad term that includes a person’s physical and emotional well-being concerning sex and sexuality. 

According to WHO, access to comprehensive, high-quality information about sex and sexuality, awareness of the dangers people may face and their susceptibility to negative effects of unsafe sexual activity is vital. Moreover, a willingness to access sexual health services, and living in an atmosphere that affirms and encourages sexual health are all the factors that influence men and women’s ability to achieve sexual well-being.

Furthermore, you should note that it is not important for you to be sexually active to keep your sexual wellness in a good shape. Equally, it is about being aware of your body, and about your sexuality and sex-related problems. 

Sexual disorders

The several factors that affect sexual function and reproduction are crucial for our sexual health. Physical, behavioral, and emotional factors all play a role in this. Disorders that affect all of these variables may harm a person’s physical and emotional well-being, as well as on relationships and self-esteem.

Some of the sexual health disorders are:

• Reproductive system disorders
• Gynecologic problems, including endometriosis, pelvic inflammatory disease, and premenstrual syndrome
• Infertility
• Sexual dysfunction
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases
• Birth Control
• Teen Sex
• Unwanted Pregnancies
• Unusual behavior about sex

Having knowledge and information regarding such sexual health problems are important. When we can put so much effort into taking care of other parts of our body, then it is unfair to neglect the important ones too. To be completely healthy, sexual health and wellness are also necessary. However, poor sexual health and lack of education may end up you have any of these problems in your life. To avoid such issues, you should have a constant check on your sexual health and wellness. 

Ways to Improve your sexual health and wellness

• Educate yourself

The most significant obstacle between people and sexual health is a lack of awareness. Growing up in a conservative or religious household where shame is associated with sex can contribute to this. People have various stigmas attached to sex. While the world is now moving forward, talking about sexual health and wellness. An individual should do their research about sex. 

There may not be effective sex education provided to students in school. But in adolescents, with the changes in their body, sexual desires seem to develop. At that time, there should be a sex educator who should guide and help them understand those changes. 

And as we know, more information and knowledge only mean that we are more prepared about sex and related topics. So, learn everything you can about the various thing associated with sex.

• Safe measures

While you may have heard of various sexually transmitted infections, people still ignore the numerous safety measures due to their negligence. There are many ways to keep yourself sexually healthy and one such way is taking safety precautions. 

If you plan to be sexually active, you should think about using birth control. Condoms, pills, patches, shots, implants, diaphragms, and intrauterine devices are examples of different varieties (IUD). These can aid in the prevention of unwanted pregnancies. 

Moreover, talk to someone before having sex. Be it a doctor or an elder or a friend, someone who has knowledge on this subject, who can help you talk about safety, risks, and prevention. 

• Know your body

You should spend time discovering about your body. You should know what feels good and what does not. Even the things you are not comfortable with, you should be aware of them. A positive and happy attitude towards your body helps you to have good sexual health. 

Having a good body image creates a positive mindset, effectively improving your mental health and mood. You should know about the things that please you. 

• Talk to someone

Communication is also an essential aspect of sexual wellbeing. Discuss sex with a doctor, parent, or other adults you trust. When it comes to questions and concerns, it’s best to be open and truthful. 

You must also be open and honest with the partner with whom you have sexual interest. Set some ground rules and talk about your goals. Allowing him or her, or other colleagues, to pressurize you into doing something is not a good idea. Don’t do something you don’t want to do or that makes you feel uneasy. 

Sometimes, you might even find it difficult to talk to your partner about subjects related to sex. You can always take the help of a therapist or a doctor, who can help you to know about your sexual health needs. 

Conclusion 

The importance of sexual health in one’s life cannot be underestimated. Other aspects of health can influence and are influenced by it. Physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being are also included. Being in good sexual health entails being well-informed, cautious, and considerate of yourself and others. It also entails having fun sexually in a way that suits you. Hence, you should also prioritize your sexual health and wellness. Moreover, regularly consult a doctor to keep yourself safe and healthy.