How exactly do you define the term sexual health? It’s challenging because sexual health is a broad term that includes so many aspects of health and well being.
In 2001, former U.S. Surgeon General David Satcher issued “The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Promote Sexual Health and Responsible Sexual Behavior.” This was the first U.S. government recognition of the importance of sexual health. The report focused on sexual health as part of overall health and well being:
“Sexual health is inextricably bound to both physical and mental health. Just as physical and mental health problems can contribute to sexual dysfunction and diseases, those dysfunctions and diseases can contribute to physical and mental health problems. Sexual health is not limited to the absence of disease or dysfunction, nor is its importance confined to just the reproductive years. It includes the ability to understand and weigh the risks, responsibilities, outcomes and impacts of sexual actions and to practice abstinence when appropriate. It includes freedom from sexual abuse and discrimination and the ability of individuals to integrate their sexuality into their lives, derive pleasure from it, and to reproduce if they so choose.”
The World Health Organization (WHO) offers its own definition, touching on many of the same elements as Satcher. The WHO definition reinforces the idea that sexual health is more than the absence of disease, but also the ability to experience sexual pleasure and healthy relationships.
“…a state of physical, emotional, mental and social well-being in relation 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 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.”
How ASHA Defines Sexual Health
In searching for our own definition of sexual health, we’ve tried to capture the many elements encompassed by the term. Here is how ASHA understands sexual health:
Sexual health is the ability to embrace and enjoy our sexuality throughout our lives. It is an important part of our physical and emotional health. Being sexually healthy means:
ASHA believes that all people have the right to the information and services that will help them to have optimum sexual health. We envision a time when stigma is no longer associated with sexual health and our nation is united in its belief that sexuality is a normal, healthy, and positive aspect of human life.
