T3 L9 Sexual health Flashcards
What is health?
State of complete physical, mental, spiritual and social well-being and not merely absence of disease or infirmity
What is sexual health?
State of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation to sexuality.
Isn’t merely the absence of disease, dysfunction or infirmity
Requires positive & respectful approach to sexuality & sexual relationships, & the possibility of having pleasurable & safe sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination & violence
Why is sexual health preferable to reproductive health?
Sex isn’t just about reproduction
If we used reproductive health, anyone who isn’t of child bearing age wouldn’t be included, anyone in same sex activity wouldn’t be included in this definition.
Why shouldn’t we call them RTIs (reproductive tract infections?)
The infections can be transmitted in many other ways
Why shouldn’t we call them STDs?
We aren’t looking are infection which is how it is passed on and can then lead to disease
Describe sexual satisfaction
Feeling good about their sexual lives, can be about not having sex
Overall relationship satisfaction is strongly related to sexual satisfaction.
Describe the idea frequency for men and women
Often assumptions that men want it more frequently but there is a large overlap between men and women
Actually frequency of sex is similar for men and women
What are some difficulties experienced during sex?
Lacked interest Orgasm too quickly Unable to orgasm Anxious about ability to perform Sex not pleasurable Pain during intercourse Vaginal dryness Unable to keep erection
What is low sexual function related to?
Greater age Depression Poor physical health Lower relationship satisfaction Inability to talk about sex with partners
What long lasting effects does sexual coercion have?
Psychological wellbeing e.g. higher prevalence of depression and anxiety
Physical wellbeing e.g. lower well-being, greater cigarette, drug and alcohol use
Sexual wellbeing: more STIs, more negative attitudes
What are the sexual health concerns in youth?
Avoiding unintended pregnancies
Avoiding STIs
Treating STIs to protect reproductive health
What are the sexual health concerns in adulthood?
Optimising reproductive health
Optimising sexual satisfaction
What are the sexual health concerns in older age?
Optimising sexual function
Limiting impact of physical health on sexual health
Describe how society is now more sexualised?
People are now sexually active at younger age
Potential exposure to STIs/unplanned pregnancy is happening at earlier age
People may be sexually active later in life
Why is it important to promote preventive behaviour?
Absence of vaccines, cures or effective treatment
High and increases rates of STIs, particularly among young people
