Let’s Talk about Sexual Health!
Like many of you, I can't believe it is already September.
But, when I remembered that September is Sexual Health Awareness Month it turned my frown upside down.
One of the many reasons I find sexual health so fascinating is that there is no "normal," when it comes to sex. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) "Sexual health 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. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected, protected and fulfilled.”
But when it comes to deciding what makes sex enjoyable there is no standard criteria. For example, what Beyoncé thinks of as good sex may differ from you and me. And that is 100% OK.
Sex can mean many things. It is not just penetration and it is not just P in the V. The options are as endless as the content on Netflix. Keep scrolling your imagination and you will find something you want to binge.
But remember that pleasure preferences can change overtime. What you like now may not spice up your life the same way in 10 or 20 years. Or you may still love the same thing, just like I can sit and re-watch The Office time and time again and find it just as delightful.
Bottom-line: There is no right or wrong when it comes to getting it on. Just have fun and be safe.
If you are looking for more resources to learn about sexual health check out the following:
Books:
Everything you know about Love and Sex is Wrong by Pepper Schwartz, Ph.D
Come as you Are by Emily Nagoski
Cockfidence by Celeste Hirschman MA & Danielle Harel Ph.D
The Ethical Slut by Dossie Easton & Janet W. Hardy
Sex for One by Betty Dodson, Ph.D
Guide to Getting It On by Paul Joannides
THE Sex and Pleasure Book by Carol Queen Ph. D w/ Shar Rednour
Websites and Podcasts: