“Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual…”.1

Umbrella

What may the Sexual Health Umbrella include?

Depending on the Source (DotS) this Umbrella may include:

  • Sexual Health
  • Sexuality

Definition

What is sexual health?

DotS the definition of sexual health may vary. In World Sexual Health Day: From the Absence of Disease To Well-Being: The Continuum of Sexual Health the World Health Organization (WHO) explain “The World Health Organization (WHO) working definition of sexual health emphasises a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, one that cannot be separated from sexual well-being”:

“Sexual health is a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being related 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”.2

Sexual Health

Women’s Sexual Health

Why does women’s sexual health matter?

In Women’s Sexual Health Matters the (United States) Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health elaborate on:

“It matters because it impacts all women, and it impacts our quality of life. It has an effect on our overall health and wellness, and directly contributes to self-image and confidence. It helps to shape how we view and enjoy intimacy, affecting our relationships and families”.3

Health Care Provider

What if I would like help with my sexual health?

If you would like help with your sexual health it may be in your best interest to choose to talk to your health care provider about this.

In Sexual Health & Menopause Online the NAMS reassure:

“Sex and menopause are totally appropriate subjects for discussion in the healthcare setting, and solutions to midlife sexual problems are out there for the taking”.4

In Sexual Health & Menopause Online: Talking To Your Healthcare Provider About Your Problem the NAMS also note:

“If your provider asks about your sex life or sexual function, don’t miss the opportunity to be frank and look for help. More important, if your provider doesn’t ask specifically about your sexual function, don’t be afraid to bring up a distressing sexual problem yourself when you’re asked, “How are you feeling?” Most providers today are comfortable addressing such a problem; if your provider is not, consider looking for another. There is absolutely no need to suffer (or let your relationship suffer) in silence”.5

Health Topics A-Z

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In Health Topics A-Z you may find:

Links

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Sources

Where may I find the Sources quoted?

You may find the Sources quoted at:

Sources

  1. World Sexual Health Day: From the Absence of Disease To Well-Being: The Continuum of Sexual Health. 04 September 2023. World Health Organization https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2023/09/04/default-calendar/world-sexual-health-day Accessed: 26 July 2024
  2. World Sexual Health Day: From the Absence of Disease To Well-Being: The Continuum of Sexual Health. 04 September 2023. World Health Organization https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2023/09/04/default-calendar/world-sexual-health-day Accessed: 26 July 2024
  3. Women’s Sexual Health Matters. Patty Brisben Foundation http://pattybrisbenfoundation.org/sexual-health/what-is-womens-sexual-health/#what Accessed: 26 July 2024
  4. Sexual Health & Menopause Online. North American Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org/for-women/sexual-health-menopause-online Accessed: 26 July 2024
  5. Sexual Health & Menopause Online: Talking To Your Health Care Provider About Your Problem. North America Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org/for-women/sexual-health-menopause-online/effective-treatments-for-sexual-problems/talking-to-your-healthcare-provider-about-your-problem Accessed: 26 July 2024
Topic Last Updated: 26 July 2024 – Topic Last Reviewed: 26 July 2024