In India, sexual health is something that people have been ashamed of talking about or we can rather say that discussing such topics in a typical Indian household has been forbidden. But, along with modernization and changing mindsets, the new generation has started speaking up about it, mostly through the digital/social media, in order to create awareness.
With the aim of creating awareness about the same, every year on 4th September, World Sexual Health Day is celebrated and this year the theme is ‘Sexual Pleasure in Times of COVID-19’. “In 2010, the World Association for Sexual Health (WAS) called all their organizations to celebrate, on each September 4th, the World Sexual Health Day (WSHD) in an effort to promote greater social awareness on sexual health across the globe” states WAS.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) states, “Sexual health, when viewed affirmatively, 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. It is fundamental to the overall health and well-being of individuals, couples and families, and to the social and economic development of communities and countries.”. Therefore, it should be socially accepted that people do have sexual desires, regardless of gender, and it is a normal part of human life.
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
However, it is to be noted that people although people have sexual urges, but practising safe sex must be a priority. There are many Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) that may spread as a result of intercourse with your partner. According to WHO, more than 1 million sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are acquired every day worldwide.
“More than 30 different bacteria, viruses and parasites are known to be transmitted through sexual contact. Eight of these pathogens are linked to the greatest incidence of sexually transmitted disease” which are:
- Curable: syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia and trichomoniasis
- Incurable: hepatitis B, herpes simplex virus (HSV or herpes), HIV, and human papillomavirus (HPV).
“Symptoms or disease due to the incurable viral infections can be reduced or modified through treatment”.
These infections can spread through oral, vaginal or anal sex. Also, apart from such infections, practising unsafe sex can also be a cause of unwanted pregnancies, especially at a young age.
Tips on practising safe sex
- Limit the number of sexual partners
- Be honest about your past sex life with him/her
- Do not hesitate to get yourself and your partner tested before intercourse
- Get yourself vaccinated against HPV and Hepatitis B
- Use condoms every time you have anal, vaginal or oral sex. It reduces the risk of transmission of STDs
- Women should consider other birth control measures, apart from condoms, to avoid unwanted pregnancies
- Abstain yourself from having sex until you are both physically and mentally ready
- Understand and use the products carefully. Read the labels.
- If you are using any sex toys, ensure that they are properly cleaned.
- Ensure proper family planning with your partner if you are willing to conceive
Therefore, healthier sexual practices will keep you and your partner safe. Sex education is not yet a part of the Indian education system, but parents should not be embarrassed to talk about it to their kids. Hiding your sexual desires can be emotionally frustrating. Thus, it is a natural process in one’s life, not a taboo and one should never be ashamed of talking or questioning about it.
