How to talk about sexual health – relationships, sexuality and STIs

Sexual health refers to the holistic state of your physical, mental, and social well-being. It’s about being comfortable in your skin and in every relationship you share with someone.

When we consider the subject of sexual health, it is not uncommon to think of the act of having sex. Sexual health is not even about disease, dysfunction, or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and relationships while exploring the possibility of having pleasurable, and safe experiences. More importantly, we want to achieve consensual sexual experiences, without force, discrimination, or violence.

The term sexual health looks at the happy, healthy, whole sexual life of people. In daily life, it means being able to make smart choices about your sexual behaviour and how that makes you feel. Sexual health helps you feel good about yourself and your body, and be respected by the people who deserve it.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies are part of the package, but sexual health boils down to having a strong sense of self-worth and positive body image, and how we talk through issues with others. People with good sexual health feel empowered about their own sex life, finding pleasure in what they do sexually, while also understanding the risks involved in sexual activity.

Let’s talk about sex, baby

Talking about sex with a new significant other or current partner could become stressful. Timing is everything. Pick a time when you are both at ease, with no underlying gripes on your mind, and do it in a private space. Common concerns could include STIs, health checks, contraception, and setting positive boundaries. It is necessary to talk about any worries you may have, sooner rather than later, and regularly. This goes a long way toward establishing an honest runway in relationships, strengthening bonds, and making good decisions.

However, keep in mind that to get to the place of mutual consent over any issue, it is important not to make judgments, drag up past grievances, or argue about housekeeping; the objective is to make each other comfortable enough to communicate honestly and keep the channels open for future chats about how to maintain exciting and robust relationships as we age and change.

Guiding teens through the maze

Today, we also need to have a comprehensive understanding of human sexuality, taking into account the diversity of sexual identities and the various factors that influence the experience of individuals, especially our adolescent children.

Research tells us that most teens share their parents’ values about sex, and that talking openly and honestly with their parents would have a positive impact on their decisions to delay sex.

Sexual health chats can take place anywhere, but the car offers some shade from embarrassment for the teenager. Talking about their friends and happenings at school is one way to keep your finger on the pulse of how your teen is engaging with the world. Parents tend to do all the talking here, but if you want your teen to talk to you, what you really have to do is listen.

Parents can also take their cues from television programs they are watching with their children to share their thoughts on what good sexual behaviours should look and feel like.

Texting them is another way to remind them to avoid risky behaviours, and importantly, how to navigate the social media traps that children fall into all too easily. A simple message to ‘make smart decisions today’, or ‘remember what we talked about yesterday’ could serve as a non-confrontational reinforcement that you have their best interests at heart.

Children and our significant others need to feel loved and cared for, and the conversations should be focused on how we make them feel. When we can express how deeply we love them and want to look out for their physical and emotional well-being, the battle for sexual health is half won.

If you have any questions get in touch with Complete Healthcare International
350 Orchard Road #08-00 Shaw House, Singapore 238868

6776 2288 / 9646 5843
enquiries@chi-health.com.sg