People must be empowered to control their sexual & reproductive health

Sex was a taboo subject once upon a time but now read what the world health organisation says…

If they are to achieve sexual and reproductive health, people must be empowered to exercise control over their sexual and reproductive lives and must have access to related health services. While these rights, and the ability to exercise them, constitute an important value in themselves, they are also a condition for well-being and development. The neglect and denial of sexual and reproductive health and rights are at the root of many health-related problems around the world.”

“Sexual health is a state of physical, emotional, mental and social wellbeing 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.”

Sexuality is a central aspect of being human throughout life and encompasses sex, gender identities and roles, sexual orientation, eroticism, pleasure, intimacy and reproduction. Sexuality is experienced and expressed in thoughts, fantasies, desires, beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviour, practices, roles and relationships. While sexuality can include all of these dimensions, not all of them are always experienced or expressed. Sexuality is influenced by the interaction of biological, psychological, social, economic, political, cultural, ethical, legal, historical, religious and spiritual factors.

Sexual rights embrace human rights that are already recognised in national laws, international human rights documents and other consensus statements. They include the right of all persons, free of coercion, discrimination and violence:

To the highest attainable standard of sexual health, and to access to sexual and reproductive health care services

To seek, receive and impart information related to sexuality

To sexuality education

To respect for bodily integrity

To choose their partner

To decide to be sexually active or not

To consensual sexual relations

To consensual marriage

To decide whether or not, and when, to have children; and

To pursue a satisfying, safe and pleasurable sexual life

Sexual and reproductive health and well-being are essential if people are to have responsible, safe, and satisfying sexual lives. Sexual health requires a positive approach to human sexuality and an understanding of the complex factors that shape human sexual behaviour. These factors affect whether the expression of sexuality leads to sexual health and well-being or to sexual behaviours that put people at risk or make them vulnerable to sexual and reproductive ill-health. Health programme managers, policymakers and care providers need to understand and promote the potentially positive role sexuality can play in people’s lives and to build health services that can promote sexually healthy societies.