SEXUAL AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTHCARE: OVERVIEW

Sexuality is a part of life and involve more than sexual behavior. Good sexual and reproductive health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being in all matters relating to the reproductive system. It implies that people are able to have a satisfying and safe sex life, the capability to reproduce, and the freedom to decide if, when, and how often to do so. For sexual health to be attained and maintained, the sexual rights of all persons must be respected and protected.

Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexual relationships, as well as the possibility of having pleasurable and safe sexual experiences, which ultimately requires much more active involvement from all of us.

Meaning of being sexually healthy:

• Sexual rights should be respected and protected.
• Easy access to sexual health education, and care.
• Making an effort to prevent unwanted pregnancies and STDs and seek treatment when needed.
• Being able to experience sexual pleasure, satisfaction, and intimacy when desired.

Points to remember and to protect you:

• Use barrier methods correctly to prevent sexual transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.
• Limit the number of sexual partners.
• Get your annual checkup for sexual transmitted diseases.
• Get your partner tested for sexual transmitted diseases.
• Recognize when you are in an abusive relationship and protect yourself.
• Consult your doctor when required.

The importance of reproductive health

Reproductive health is an important component of general health and a prerequisite for human development.  Reproductive health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of reproductive disease.

It is a reflection of health during childhood, and crucial during adolescence and adulthood, sets the stage for health beyond the reproductive years for both women and men, and affects the health of the next generation.  Failure to deal with reproductive health problems at any stage in life sets the scene for later health and developmental problems.

Points to remember to keep reproductive system healthy;

1. Choose contraceptives wisely.
2. Practice safe sex.
3. Women should consult for menstrual disorders.
4. Maintain liquid intake.
5. Annual checkup sexual transmitted diseases and self-examination.
6. Eat healthy and balanced diet.
7. Regular exercise.
8. Good enough sleep, (8hrs a day).
9. Avoid tobacco, alcohol and drugs.