Sexual health

The WHO defines sexual health as a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being with regard 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 ability to enjoy safe and pleasurable sexual experiences, free of coercion, discrimination and violence.

To achieve and maintain sexual health, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled. Sexuality is a central aspect of the human condition throughout our lives, and encompasses biological sex, sexual identity and role, sexual orientation, eroticism, pleasure, intimacy and reproduction.

Sexuality is experienced in the form of thoughts, fantasies, desires, beliefs, attitudes, values, behaviour, practices, roles and relationships. Although sexuality encompasses all of these aspects, they are not always experienced or expressed simultaneously. Sexuality is influenced by biological, psychological, social, economic, political, cultural, ethical, legal, historical, religious and spiritual factors.