Sexual health is defined as “…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.” (WHO, 2006)
Sexual health plays a big role in being a human, which contribute to making a good sense of well-being. In order to maintain healthy relationships, everyone needs love, affection and sexual intimacy.
Sexual health is a broad subject matter. There are a number of sexual health concerns which can affect one’s perception to sexuality and therefore can become a hindrance to achieving a sense of well-being:
- Sexual health concerns related to body integrity and to sexual safety
- Sexual health concerns related to eroticism
- Sexual health concerns related to gender
- Sexual health concerns related to sexual orientation
- Sexual health concerns related to emotional attachment
- Sexual health concerns related to reproduction
Sexual health providers should be able to address the different concerns of both men and women. They should be able to provide the following:
- Annual exams for men and women
- Care for infections and sexually transmitted diseases
- Support and information for negotiating safer sex and choosing abstinence
- Assistance in choosing and prescribing contraceptive methods
- Emergency contraceptive pills (“morning after pills”)
- Care and support for women with menstrual problems
- Preconception advising
- Pregnancy testing and options, counseling, and referrals
- Prenatal information with referrals to Princeton area services
- Sexuality counseling and referrals to community resources
- Information and care for gay, lesbian, and bisexual health concerns
- HIV testing, information, and counseling
Sexual health providers keep all patient’s data, diagnosis and treatments are kept confidential and are not allowed to be disclosed to friends, family or administration without any consent given by the patient.
