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"Sexual health is 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.
Sexual rights embrace human rights that are already recognized in national laws, international human rights documents and other consensus statements. They include the right of all persons, free of coercion, discrimination and violence, to:
* the highest attainable standard of sexual health, including access to sexual and reproductive health care services;
* seek, receive and impart information related to sexuality;
* sexuality education;
* respect for bodily integrity;
* choose their partner;
* decide to be sexually active or not;
* consensual sexual relations;
* consensual marriage;
* decide whether or not, and when, to have children; and
* pursue a satisfying, safe and pleasurable sexual life." [1]
Human sexual health addresses a variety of changing issues. Over the past few decades, the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has been a significant concern, as have sexually transmitted diseases (STD's), unwanted pregnancies, infertility, sexual discrimination and obesity. New contraceptive technologies, medication for sexual dysfunction and general research in human sexual behaviour have been important contributions to health care and education. Studies show that the rise in sexual dysfunction (particularly erectile dysfunction in men) is significantly associated with age, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and lack of physical activity.[2]
Editors: Karene Jade Howie
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