Yep, it’s that time of the year again when love & romance are in the air. And with the mood just about almost right, there’s no better time to start thinking about your sexual health.
What is sexual health? Well, according to the American Sexual Health Association being sexually healthy means:
- Knowing that sexuality is a full and natural part of life and involves more than sexual behavior.
- Being able to have sexual pleasure, satisfaction, and intimacy when desired.
- Being able to talk about sexual health with others including sexual partners and health care providers.
- Being able to recognize and respect the sexual rights we all share
- Having access to sexual health information, education, and care
- Putting a stop to STIs and unplanned pregnancies and seeking care and treatment when needed.
Your sexual health
Everyone’s sexual health needs are different. Right now, you might be in a relationship, playing the field, taking a break from the dating game or perhaps thinking about having a child.
Wherever you’re at, here are some important questions to ask yourself:
- Do you know your body well and how you can protect it?
- Have you noticed any changes in your health recently?
- Do you have any concerns about conditions, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or issues related to sexual functioning or performance?
- When you see your medical care provider, do you talk about sexual health to make sure you get the care you need to stay healthy and well?
Thinking about these questions is a good place to start when it comes to taking care of your sexual well-being.
Checkup & check-in
Once you’re ready to take control of your sexual health, getting regular checkups and talking with your medical care provider about your current or planned sex life as it relates to your health is another important step in managing your overall wellness.
During a visit, your provider may ask questions about your sexual history to better understand how to help you. And, just as importantly, you may ask questions and talk about any concerns you may have.
Additionally, since many STIs do not have symptoms, getting tested is another critical part of your regular sexual health checkups. STIs are common, but most can be cured — and all can be treated. And getting treated early can also prevent the chance of any long term health problems.
That’s why getting regular checkups and talking openly and honestly with your medical care provider is one of the best ways to have a healthy sex life.
Good relationships
But, sexual health isn’t just about taking care of you, it’s also about respecting and taking care of your partner.
Open and honest communication can make for good sex — and a good relationship. That’s why talking about sex with your partner before, during, and after sex will make sure everyone feels safe and has fun.
Intimacy, respect and trust. It takes all three to talk openly with your partner about your boundaries and what feels good to each of you.
Good health = Great sex
Good sexual health can lead to great sex when you have a positive attitude about sex, communicate openly with your partner, and take good care of your body and mind.
Being in touch with your body and your emotions will help you discover what you like and don’t like, and what feels good and comfortable to you.
And. knowing how to prevent and control the spread of STIs/HIV and unplanned pregnancies will help you talk openly with your sexual partner and be in control of your sexual health.
Sexual health includes pleasure, communication and making informed decisions about what works for you — both in and out of the bedroom.
Got questions? We’re here. And we’re all in for #sexualhealth.