Your Sexual Health

Sexual Health is a big deal.

Sexual health for most means they want to avoid sexual problems such as sexually transmitted infections (STIs), unplanned pregnancy and enhance sexual enjoyment.

Being sexually healthy means that you are free from infections, violence, injury, fear and false beliefs. It also means that you are comfortable with your sexuality, and have the ability to control and positively experience your own sexuality and reproduction.

To be sexually healthy, you will engage in sexually activity when you feel comfortable with yourself, your partner and the decisions you make. If you're about to do something that makes you uncomfortable, stop before you start. This holds true whether you are in a long time relationship, or about to embark on a new relationship.

"For sexual health to be attained and maintained it is necessary that the sexual rights of all people be recognized and upheld."
- World Health Organization

Taking Care of My Sexual Health

Make sure that if you aren't prepared to risk an unplanned pregnancy you are using a contraceptive that works well for both you and your partner. Safety first - use condoms for dual protection, since it is important that you minimize the risk of sexually transmitted infections. Dual protection, all the time, with every partner.

Condoms protect both partners from unwanted pregnancy and from most sexually transmitted infections. They may not, however, provide adequate protection from herpes, warts and pubic lice since they may not form a barrier between the affected areas. Condoms are readily available, inexpensive, and easy to use. Protection is vital to your continued good health.

Get tested. This is another way you and your partner can avoid the risk of STIs or HIV infection. Don't assume that because you're in a steady relationship that you shouldn't continue to get tested.

Follow up with your health care provider regarding recommendations for pap test, breast examination and how to examine your testicles.

Understanding Sexuality

Sex can be pretty confusing. You may have been told that sex is a sacred act between two married people who love each other very much. But then you turn on your TV and you see quite a different story - people having casual or meaningless sex, using it to get revenge or to control people, or using it to advertise everything from soft drinks to vacuum cleaners.

Who do you talk to?

There is a lot of incorrect information floating around about sex. If you already had "The Sex Talk" with your parents, you may still have a few questions. Your parents, teachers, school nurse or your doctor would likely be happy to answer your questions, but face it; some of this information can be embarrassing.

Ideally, the first person you try talking to should be someone you trust and feel comfortable with. It doesn't necessarily have to be your sexual partner or a parent. Think of all the people you know: aunts, uncles, cousins, stepparents, godparents, doctors, pharmacists, teachers, guidance counsellors, religious leaders, personal friends, family friends. But be careful about confiding in friends who belong to your social circle: they may accidentally (or not so accidentally) let your news slip, even if they promise not to.

If you can't bring yourself to talk to anyone you know, a youth hotline or support group can give you someone who will listen and help, and you won't have to worry about them blabbing to everyone you know. A lot of times, it feels safest to talk to a complete stranger.

After you've talked with someone you trust, they may be able to help you break the subject with more challenging people, like your parents.

You can start by telling the person if you're feeling awkward, scared, or ashamed. It prepares your listener for the information to come. Then tell your story as simply and plainly as possible. Don't dwell on too many details or get side-tracked, just be honest and get to the point. This person wants to help you, so they need to know the whole story.

For more information, please visit Sexuality and U

(information adopted from Sexuality and U)