sexual health
What is sexual health?
Too often, particularly for young people, sexual health in seen in negative terms. It focuses on unplanned pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) and the effects of coercive or abusive relationships. Although these are important issues, Sexual Health is about enjoying safe, happy sexual experiences without yourself or anybody else suffering emotional or physical harm or coercion. It means feeling good about your sexual experiences and not regretting anything. This applies to whether you are trans, Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual or straight. It is about practicing safe sex which means using both contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy and using condoms to help protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Respect - Respect yourself and others at all times.
- Safety - Protect yourself and your partner(s) from STIs, unwanted pregnancy and negative emotional effects of sexual behaviour.
- Knowledge -Learn about your body and mind, sexuality, health, reproduction and laws that affect sex. When and where to access sexual health services for free contraception and STI testing.
- Communication - Become comfortable talking about sexuality with other people. Become able to have mature discussions with your family, friends and especially your partner(s).
Positive sexual health is an important part of our overall health and well being. It means making an informed, healthy free choice about your sexual activity. Sex should be fun, exciting and loving...
LOVED UP!
- Don’t let anyone pressure you into having sex.
- Many young people regret their first sexual experience.
- Young people are describing sexual activity they are not happy with.
- If you do not feel you are ready for sex just say no.
- Remember sexual activity is not only about physical contact but it involves your emotions.