What Do We Mean By ‘Sexual Health’?
Sexual health involves discussions around so much more than disease prevention. And after a history of neglect, today’s scientists and doctors are researching and treating a much broader slate of issues concerning female sexual health.
Sexual health can be defined in many different ways. The World Health Organization defines it as “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.”
Another term used these days to denote sexual health is “sex positivity,” which can encompass the candid discussion of everything from relationship styles to nudity, safer sex, body positivity, and gender identity. The idea is to be able to dialogue and engage with others without feeling ashamed or inadequate.
Female sexual health encompasses so much more than anatomy. It can mean learning to set healthy boundaries, forming deeper connections with our partners, and even talking about what pleases us and what turns us off.
Anatomy Lessons
Certainly, any candid discussion of female sexual health must address a woman’s anatomy.
Many people do not understand a woman’s complete sexual anatomy, which is complex and interdependent. Let’s face it. The vagina is complicated!
For some women, it’s helpful to have a conversation with their doctor about the various parts of the whole: from the clitoris to the urethra to vestibular bulbs, once you know where things are and what they do, you’re better prepared to talk about things like healthy boundaries, intimacy issues, body positivity, and even how menopause can affect a woman’s sexual drive.
A Word About Disease Prevention
No discussion of female sexual health would be complete without touching on the issue of sexually transmitted diseases.
Women need to work with their doctors and educate themselves about how diseases are transmitted, what treatments are available, and perhaps most importantly, how to prevent disease transmission in the first place.
If you have questions about sexually transmitted diseases and risk factors or diagnoses, don’t wait. Call your doctor and make an appointment. There’s no reason to feel embarrassed or ashamed.
Promoting Healthy Boundaries
Female sexual health involves setting and maintaining healthy boundaries with our sex partners.
To be fully healthy, we have to be able to confidently and clearly communicate our wants, needs, and limitations to our partners. Unfortunately, many women only recognize their boundaries once they’ve been crossed.
Establishing boundaries can be learned, but it takes practice to implement them.
Building Deeper Connections
There are many reasons people want to have sex, and not all of them involve orgasms.
For example, some women who have reached menopause may not have the same level of drive that they did when they were younger. But they still want to enjoy sex with their partners because it promotes both sexual and emotional intimacy, and strengthens bonds.
For some women, cuddling is a natural segue into sexual intimacy. But unless they share this desire with their partners, they may never feel quite “ready” to have sex.
It’s important to talk with your partner about these things candidly so expectations are clear and you can build intimacy and a satisfying sex life.
The “Talk”
Taking charge of your own sexual health can be empowering, so remind yourself of that if you start to feel embarrassed or shy when talking about it.
Some things to think about before you start a conversation:
Admit your discomfort at the outset. Feeling anxious about telling someone else something so intimate about yourself is normal. Vulnerability is often uncomfortable, but if you’re brave enough to stay with it, it can lead to great outcomes.
Acknowledge contributing factors. Sometimes conflicts in a relationship can be a huge barrier to a satisfying sex life. Resentment is most definitely not an aphrodisiac! Are you allowing each other enough time to enjoy sex? What feels romantic and what feels routine?
When To See Your Doctor
Female sexual health is a multi-layered, complex subject. If you have questions or concerns, and especially if you are experiencing symptoms of an STD, don’t wait to see your doctor.
The physicians at Norman Urology are trained to treat all aspects relating to female sexual health. We’d be happy to talk about your questions and needs. Why not make an appointment with us today?