The World Health Organization (WHO) defines sexual health as "the state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being related to sexuality; it is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction and infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive, 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."
Not everyone has the same definition of sex and what it includes so when you are talking with your partner, make sure both parties understands what you are talking about!
The SHS Health Promotion Department approaches safer sex with a harm reduction approach. We focus on education and prevention. Our message: “Should you choose to have sex, here’s how to protect yourself and your partner by practicing safer sex.”
Safer sex means protecting yourself and your partner from sexually transmitted infections (STIs), HIV and unplanned pregnancy. It can also mean deciding to abstain from sexual intercourse or finding other forms of sexual expression that do not involve the exchange of bodily fluids.
Abstinence is the only 100 percent foolproof method of preventing STIs, HIV and pregnancy.
Abstinence can also mean different things for different people depending on that person’s definition of sex.
