Sexual Health

Sexual health news and information

Good sexual health is not just the absence of illness or STDs. Sexual health includes a sense of understanding and well-being, and the ability to express oneself sexually and make responsible decisions.

Male Sexual Health

Male sexual health gets a lot of attention in the media these days thanks in part to the fact that a sexual health product can now be advertised and talked about on television. Years ago, erectile dysfunction commercials and commercials for male enhancement products would never have been allowed on the air. Today, we recognize the music from many such commercials because we've heard them so often.

Some of the biggest sexual health news as far as what can and can't be shown on television is the growing number of condom commercials on the air. These aren't just aimed at men's sexual health, but women's as well. Sexual health is actually an important family health issue. Parents who understand and protect their sexuality pass that tendency on to their children with open and honest communication about sex and the responsibilities that come with it.

More specifically, male sexual health includes reproduction issues, protection against STDs, normal erections and the ability to express oneself sexually. Regular exams are a part of this, including annual digital prostate exams after age 40.

Women's Sexual Health

Women's sexual health issues are a bit more complex because of their reproductive cycle. The menstrual cycle means preventing pregnancy becomes a more personal issue for women, as does the ability to conceive. Important parts of female sexual health include annual pap smears for sexually active girls and women, and annual mammograms which check the breasts for abnormalities.

It's important for women to understand the importance of birth control in their sexual health and their family's current and future health. Knowing the options like pills, shots and patches, as well as understanding the purpose and use of condoms is very important. Condoms can help prevent many diseases like HPV and chlamydia that can lead to cancer. Also, decisions about sexuality, pregnancy and abortion are important aspects of a woman's sexual health.