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Does your sexual health truly meet the WHO’s definition?
Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is a field of research, health care and social action that addresses the reproductive and sexual well-being of individuals at all stages of their lives. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), health is not just the absence of disease or infirmity, but “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being”. Sexual health is defined as “a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being related to sexuality.” This definition emphasizes a positive, respectful attitude toward sex and sexual relationships, and the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences.
“Sexual health requires respecting, protecting and realizing the sexual rights of all people.”
Another important aspect of sexual and reproductive health is its link to an individual's ability to choose, including the freedom to choose when and how to have sex. However, the right to enter and maintain this status is often influenced by social, economic and cultural factors.
Current Challenges
Despite increasing global awareness of sexual and reproductive health, many people still face challenges in enjoying these rights. According to the Guttmacher-Lancet Commission report, 4.3 billion people worldwide face inadequate sexual and reproductive health services, and many improvements are hampered by insufficient political commitment, insufficient resources, and persistent discrimination.
“Sexual and reproductive health and rights are critical to sustainable development because they are closely linked to gender equality and women’s well-being.”
The impact of social inequality
Reproductive health services are more severe in unequal areas, whether due to socioeconomic status, education level or space suppression. Not only that, but certain groups of people, such as teenagers, women and sexual minorities, often face greater challenges. In many societies, inadequate sex education for adolescents prevents them from effectively protecting themselves, which further leads to an increased risk of early pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases.
Adolescents and sexual health
The challenge of adolescent sexual health issues lies in the lack of available resources and knowledge, as well as the social pressure and cultural restrictions faced. In some countries, teenagers are required to marry and have children at an early age, leading to many health risks and psychological problems. This not only affects the physical and mental health of teenagers, but also affects the development of the entire family and community.
“The increase in adolescent fertility rates is inseparable from health and socioeconomic conditions.”
Women and maternal health
According to WHO, 95% of maternal deaths occur in low-income countries, which is directly related to differences in quality of care, medical equity and economic status. When a woman lives in poverty, it is often difficult to obtain necessary maternal health care. Also affected are her children, who will be caught up in a generational cycle of poverty.
Sexual health of the LGBT+ community
LGBT+ people face special challenges and barriers when accessing sexual and reproductive health services. Due to cultural and social pressures, these groups are often excluded from the mainstream medical system and unable to receive appropriate care and support, further eroding their health and rights.
“The rights and interests of the LGBT+ community should be fully respected to protect their health and survival.”
Conclusion
In this context, we need to make further efforts to ensure that everyone's sexual and reproductive health needs are met, whether in education, health care or resource allocation. All sectors of society should work together to raise awareness about sexual and reproductive health. Do you feel that you can get enough support and information on sexual and reproductive health to comply with WHO standards?
