When you think about your health, your sexual health may not be the first thing that comes to mind. It might surprise you to learn that this aspect of your health actually plays an important role in keeping you healthy and well overall.
September is designated as Sexual Health Month, with the World Association of Sexual Health designating Sept. 4 as World Sexual Health Day this year. These events are designed to raise awareness about sexual health and what we can do to protect ourselves.
This is an important cause for our team here at Cempa Community Care. Since our founding in 1986, we’ve been committed to providing those in our community with access to services that help them live sexually healthy and safe lives.
Too often, people see sex as a forbidden topic — something that should be kept private. While it’s certainly fine to keep your business as your business, there’s nothing wrong with sexual health, and it’s not necessary to feel guilty or embarrassed by it.
That’s why we’re shining a light on the topic this month. Read on to learn more.
Defining Sexual Health
You might think you have a good understanding of sexual health, but the definition is probably a little broader than you’d think. According to the World Health Organization, sexual health is “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.”
So, sexual health encompasses both your sexuality and health issues affecting the sexual organs. More than that, it also encompasses how you feel about those aspects of your life and body.
The Connection Between Sexual Health & Overall Health
Even as recently as a few decades ago, little attention was paid to sexual health as it relates to overall health. The U.S. government first recognized the importance of sexual health in 2001 with a report titled, “The Surgeon General’s Call to Action to Promote Sexual Health and Responsible Sexual Behavior.”
That report emphasized the connection between sexual health and overall health, stating, “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.”
We now know that sexual health has a major impact on a person’s overall health and well-being. It’s rather amazing to consider that just over 20 years ago, this was new insight.
At Cempa, we’re here to help you take control of your health — including your sexual health. We offer a full range of services: prevention and treatment for infectious diseases such as HIV and hepatitis C, plus primary care, dental care, in-house pharmacy, and behavioral health.
Our mission is to champion healthy communities by providing affordable, compassionate, high-quality care through comprehensive support services and person-centered best practices. To learn more or schedule an appointment with our compassionate team of providers, call 423.265.2273 or visit cempa.org. Existing patients can also schedule online. We look forward to being your health care partner.
