Sexual Health Month, celebrated each September, is a good time to assess our level of sexual health and to clear up any gaps in our knowledge.
In the past decade, there have been significant changes in the discourse of public health regarding sexual health. Recently, there has been a significant leap in the recognition of sexual health as a central component of overall health.
What is Sexual Health?
Sexual health is “the ability to embrace and enjoy our sexuality throughout our lives. It is an important part of our physical and emotional health.” Sexual health is being comfortable in your sexuality and your sexual life. It is taking care of your body and having open and honest conversations with your partner(s) about sex. We particularly like the World Health Organization’s description that 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.”
At its core, sexual health is about the well-being, safety, rights, and freedom of the individual to choose what to do with their body, when they can do it, and how they can do it. It is about being free from discrimination and violence, and having your choices respected.
Why Sexual Health Month is Important
1. Sexual health is good for all of us
We first start to learn about sexual health in so-called “sex ed” classes when we’re young. Sexual Health Month can inspire us to make sure we’re up to date on the latest info.
2. Sexual health knowledge is sexy
Few things are more sexy than intelligence. Sexual health is good for both the mind and the body, so let’s make sure we use Sexual Health Month to increase our knowledge.
3. Sexual health can be fun
Sexual Health Month can inspire us to explore questions about ourselves with our partners. There are plenty of activities in which we can participate in order to celebrate this important topic.
Get Tested During Sexual Health Awareness Month
More than 1 million people are infected with an STI daily worldwide. Many STDs show no signs or symptoms, but may cause serious damage if untreated. That’s why it’s so important to practice safe sex and pay attention to what your body is telling you. If you suspect you may have an STD, or if you’ve never been tested before, September is the perfect time to get tested. STD testing doesn’t have to be embarrassing or invasive. At myDoc Urgent Care, we offer a discreet STD treatment option. Simply stop by any of our offices in Philadelphia and get tested and receive treatment.
