Sexual Health Information
The World Health Organization’s working definition of sexual health is:
“…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.”
Sexuality is about much more than just sex. It includes:
- Your body, including your sexual and reproductive anatomy and body image — how you feel about your body
- Your biological sex — male, female, or intersex
- Your gender — being a girl, boy, woman, man, or transgender, or genderqueer
- Your gender identity — feelings about and how you express your gender
- Your sexual orientation — who you’re sexually and/or romantically attracted to
- Your desires, thoughts, fantasies, and sexual preferences
- Your values, attitudes, and ideals about life, love, and sexual relationships
- Your sexual behaviors — including masturbation
Quick Facts:
Birth Control:
There are several ways to prevent pregnancy; the important thing is to pick a method that fits your life.
Planned Parenthoods website allows you to compare birth control methods:
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/birth-control/birth-control-effectiveness-chart-22710.htm
Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs):
STDs and STIs can be caused by bacteria or viruses and are typically acquired through sexual contact.
Planned Parenthoods website provides definitions of common and uncommon STDs and STIs:
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/health-topics/stds-hiv-safer-sex-101.htm
Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity:
Sexual orientation and gender identity are important and complex parts of who we are as human beings. The Human Rights Campaign provides definitions and further explanation:
https://www.hrc.org/resources/entry/sexual-orientation-and-gender-identity-terminology-and-definitions