What is Sexual Health and Wellbeing?

According to the current working definition, 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."

Sexual health is important for the overall health and well-being of individuals. The ability of people to achieve sexual health and wellbeing depends on access to good information about sex and sexuality, knowledge of the consequence of unprotected sexual activity, ability to access sexual health care, and living in an environment that affirms and promotes sexual health.

Sexual health also includes negative consequences and conditions such as sexually transmitted infections, unintended pregnancy and abortion, sexual dysfunction, sexual violence, and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation.

Taking good care of your sexual health can include planning for and using contraception, understanding about changes to your body, learning how to avoid sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancy, and knowing where to go if you want help and advice about your sexual health.