By World Sexual Health Day.
Each year, the World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) celebrates World Sexual Health Day on September 4th.
2021 theme to celebrate the day is Turn it on: Sexual health in a digital world.
WAS says they chose the motto “Turn it on” to ignite awareness of sexual health and sexual rights and enforcing them, as there are also many violations and abuses of sexual rights in the digital space.
WAS is also highlighting the digital divide that leaves many in low-resource settings unable to access digital platforms and information online.
World Sexual Health Day. Photo Courtesy
What exactly is sexual health? Sexual health involves the state of physical, mental, and social well-being regarding sexuality. However, sexual health isn’t just about relationships. Our sexual health influences medical issues, education, and sexual behavior. The observance also tackles issues including unplanned pregnancies and safer sex practices.
Part of being sexually healthy is having a respectful attitude toward sexuality. Besides sexual health, sexual rights are a central topic on World Sexual Health Day.
World Sexual Health Day. Photo Courtesy
Some examples of sexual rights include the right to:
- equality and non-discrimination
- autonomy and bodily integrity
- be free from all forms of violence and coercion
- privacy
- the highest attainable standard of health, including sexual health
- accurate information
- education
- decide to have children and how many to have
- access justice
If you have children, and they are the appropriate age, talk to them about the importance of safe sex. You can also discuss with them how avoiding sexual risk can help them achieve success later on in life. Share information that deals with preventing unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases.
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