Sexual Health

Sexual health goes far beyond the physical health of your sex organs. That's part of it — but this topic also includes issues of consent, sexual pleasure, and relationship health. And since so much of the US (and the world) continues to grapple with stigma and shame around many sexual health issues and topics, it's more important than ever to talk openly and honestly about what good sexual health truly entails.

A solid approach to sexual health starts with sex education, both what you learn from parents (and teach to your own kids) and in school. This includes learning about safe sex (aka using STI protection like condoms and birth control for preventing unwanted pregnancy), understanding how your reproductive system works, the importance of mutually consenting sex and relationships, and all the variations of gender and sexuality. Pregnancy, abortion, sexual dysfunction, sexual violence, and sexual health issues from STIs to infertility and reproductive cancer all fall under the umbrella of sexual health as well. Providers like OB/GYNs are a great resource for learning more about sexual health and the intricacies of your own reproductive system.