Best Ways To Take Care Of Your Sexual Health
Why don't we talk a bit about just sexual health before we get to the care part, alright? Sexual health is fundamental to the overall health and well-being of individuals, couples and families — and if you want to get quite broad about it — to communities and countries' social and economic development. The matter is still a sensitive one, that's why we keep talking about it with September 4 being sexual health awareness day.
Most people don't like talking about sex. But others consider sexual health an essential dimension of human well-being and health. From concern over having enjoying, comfortable sex through to questions about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and their prevention, many important topics come under the sexual health umbrella.
The ability of people to achieve optimal sexual health largely depends on their access to comprehensive information about sex and sexuality and broad knowledge on the risks they may face if they aren't careful and intentional about their sexual health. It also depends on their knowledge of their vulnerability to adverse consequences of unprotected sexual activity.
Michael McGee, who is a certified sexual educator and professor at Monclair State University, explains, "Sexual health is an essential and beneficial dimension of being human, people have a right to sexual health, sexual health information including public policy that supports sexual health, and the right to pleasure."
The question that remains is this; how can this awareness work in your favour? Well, the answer is simple, you participate and invest in your sexual health.
Schedule A Wellness Visit
A wellness visit is not too different from any other doctor appointment you've had in the past. The doctor will have your vital signs taken, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions about sexual health, birth control, starting a family or anything else you might be thinking about. You may prepare yourself for the tests you might have during your visit: Breast exam, Pap test, Pelvic exam, Pregnancy test but do not forget to get tested for STIs.
The point of all this is, if you are sexually active, you're at risk for HIV and sexually transmitted infected diseases.
You may be at risk for STIs or HIV if you have unprotected vaginal, oral or anal sex. You may also be at risk for serious STIs like HIV if you share syringes or needles. Having a test done is the only way to know for certain if you have a sexually transmitted infection.
Leave The Stigma
If you are all up in someone's private parts, talking about sexual health practices should not feel awkward. Don't let anyone make you feel like you are doing the most for having a conversation about sexual health. You have a right anyway. Exercise it.
Talk To Your Partner About Safety In Sex
Now, you've done your STI tests, and you understand how condoms can help prevent STIs. But what about your partner? It does take two to have sex, so you must be sure you're on the same page.
It's super important for you and your partner to agree about how you go about having sex. The only way the both of you can reach an agreement is when you talk about it. After all, neither of you are mind readers, and you can only reach a mutually beneficial conclusion through discussion. During the discussion, you should make sure you cover birth control options, STI protection and even what happens if there is an unintended pregnancy. These are all issues that must be discussed if you want to be clear about the risks you're willing to take during sex.
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