According to the World Health Organization, sexual health has many aspects, such as being able to enjoy and to control sexual and reproductive behavior, feeling freedom from shame, fear, guilt and to be free from diseases that interfere with sexual and reproductive function. So, when we think about a “healthy sexual life”, we are thinking about enjoying good physical and mental health in your own sexuality throughout your life.
Remember that sexuality is part of all stages of life!
Children Sexuality: During this life stage, children are exploring and learning about their body and sensations. Act naturally, if your child touches his or her genital parts. Do not reprimand the child, considering that it is a healthy developmental behavior. Instead, use this opportunity to explain to your child about private parts in our body, which no one should touch.
Adolescent Sexuality: This is a phase of enormous hormonal changes. It is important for parents to talk openly to teenagers about their sexuality. If it is difficult for a parent to have this type of conversation, professional help is advised. Several teenagers start to have an active sexual life without the knowledge of their parents, and without enough information about the risks involved. The reports of Rock Island County Health Department of 2007 showed that the rate of sexual transmitted diseases among teenagers in the Quad Cities area is higher than the national rate. Teen pregnancy is also very high in the Quad Cities, also above the national percentage. Both, sexual transmitted diseases and teen pregnancy are signs of risky behaviors.
Adulthood Sexuality: Healthy sexuality involves feeling positive about your sexuality. Communication is a very important part of it. Expressing and talking clearly to your partner about your preferences, emotions and thoughts will make you have a more intimate relationship and enjoy your sexual life. Anxiety is a significant problem in this area, which can be solved through positive communication and improvement of sexual awareness.
Elderly Sexuality: Life expectancy has grown in the United States. Similarly to any other developmental stage, changes in the body occur during elderly. Adjusting to these changes is important. Some studies show that the sexual behavior of the older people will be a continuum of their behavior when they were younger. So, people who were more sexually active when they were younger tend to continue this behavior when they get older.
Remember that the concept of what is right or wrong depends on people’s values, and is influenced by culture and society. Also, remember that your sexuality belongs to you, and it is your responsibility to make good choices. Prevention is extremely important, so talk to your doctor about it. If you have any concerns if you are HIV positive, or if you have a Sexual Transmitted disease, contact AIDS Project Quad Cities at (309) 762-5433. The testing is free and anonymous.
Do not forget that sexuality is an important aspect of the human existence. Respecting your body and your mind is the best way to have a healthy sexual life!
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