Sexual health awareness and knowledge of sexual health products
- Author: Medical Content Writer
- Publication Date: August 31, 2024
What is sexual health?
Sexual health is a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality, and is not merely the absence of disease, dysfunction, or infirmity. Sexual health requires a positive and respectful approach to sexuality and sexual relationships, enabling pleasurable, safe, and consensual sexual experiences free from coercion, discrimination, and violence. Achieving and maintaining sexual health depends on respecting and protecting the sexual rights of all individuals.
Sexual health is fundamental to the overall well-being of individuals, couples, and families, as well as to the social and economic development of communities and nations. The ability of men and women to achieve sexual health and well-being depends on the following:
- Access to comprehensive and accurate education and information about sexual relationships
- The ability to experience pleasure, satisfaction, and sexual intimacy if desired
- Awareness of the risks of unprotected sex
- Access to sexual healthcare
- Living in an environment that recognizes and promotes sexual health.
In the continuation of this article, we will examine the reasons for the importance of sexual health, education and awareness about sexual health, sexual hygiene and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, introduction of sexual health products, and the role of sexual health on mental health.
Importance of sexual health
Sexual health is an inseparable part of overall well-being, encompassing physical, emotional, psychological, and social aspects. Cultural and social factors play a significant role in shaping attitudes, behaviors, and access to sexual health resources. Key social and cultural factors influencing sexual health include:
Cultural norms and beliefs
Cultural norms vary greatly across different societies. These norms determine what is considered acceptable or unacceptable (often termed taboo) regarding behaviors, sexual relationships, and gender roles. For example, in some societies, discussing sexual relationships is taboo, leading to a lack of education and awareness about sexual issues. This, in turn, results in misinformation and a negative approach to sexual health.
Religious influences
Religious beliefs often shape individuals’ attitudes toward sex and sexuality. These beliefs influence decisions regarding family planning, contraception, sexual activity, and even collective policies and healthcare services.
Gender roles
Gender discrimination significantly impacts sexual health. Societal expectations about what is considered masculine or feminine influence sexual behaviors, power dynamics in relationships, and access to healthcare services. For example, traditional female roles may discourage women from seeking reproductive healthcare or openly discussing sexual concerns.
To address barriers limiting access to safe, high-quality, respectful, and affordable sexual and reproductive healthcare, comprehensive and collective actions are needed to ensure sexual health is achievable for all—especially women, girls, and youth.
Sexual hygiene and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases
Issues related to sexual health encompass a wide range of topics, one of the most important being sexual hygiene and disease prevention. This includes preventing HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and their adverse consequences (such as certain cancers and infertility), as well as preventing unintended pregnancies.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) refer to infections caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites that are transmitted through sexual contact. Unprotected sex, having multiple sexual partners, insufficient knowledge about sexual partners, and engaging in sexual activity under the influence of alcohol or drugs increase the risk of contracting STDs.
To prevent sexually transmitted infections, the following is recommended:
- Avoid high-risk sexual relationships
- Use condoms during every sexual encounter. If using lubricants, ensure they are compatible with condoms
- Get vaccinated against Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Mental health and sexual health
Mental health and sexual health are deeply interconnected. While some sexual issues stem from physical causes—such as injuries, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, urological disorders, neurological conditions, cancers, or treatment side effects—others have underlying psychiatric roots.
Depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and many other psychiatric conditions are associated with sexual dysfunction. Specifically, these disorders can lead to decreased libido, reduced sexual arousal, and diminished sexual satisfaction. Additionally, treatments for these conditions may also have adverse sexual side effects. For example, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medications can cause reduced sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, delayed ejaculation, and difficulty achieving orgasm.
An interesting point is that, for example, if a man experiences performance anxiety and worries about erectile dysfunction during sexual activity, the likelihood of actually encountering this issue increases. Similarly, women with vaginismus (a disorder involving involuntary vaginal muscle spasms during intercourse) may develop fear and anxiety about sexual relations due to previous painful experiences, perpetuating this vicious cycle.
To improve sexual dysfunction caused by psychiatric issues, several methods can be considered, including:
Psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, couples therapy, and sex therapy
Adjusting or changing psychiatric medications under a doctor’s supervision or adding medications to address sexual dysfunction
Using over-the-counter products
Introduction of sexual health products
Next, we will introduce a number of sexual health-related products:
Phantasia is a non-hormonal contraceptive gel for women that prevents pregnancy by maintaining the vagina’s natural acidic pH, immobilizing sperm. It acts locally, avoiding systemic side effects or drug interactions, and is compatible with other contraceptive methods like condoms.
Unlike some contraceptive methods, Phantasia has no contraindications and can be used by individuals with a wide range of underlying medical conditions. Fertility returns quickly after using Phantasia, unlike some other contraceptive methods. It can be applied immediately up to one hour before sexual intercourse and, unlike birth control pills, does not require daily or regular use to prevent pregnancy. It is important to note that if intercourse occurs more than one hour after application, Phantasia must be reapplied. Generally, a new tube and applicator should be used for each sexual encounter.
Lumista
Lumista is a lubricating gel containing sodium hyaluronate that helps maintain vaginal moisture, easing sexual intercourse by reducing dryness and friction. Lumista does not negatively affect sperm’s genetic content or its movement toward the egg, making it a suitable lubricant for couples trying to conceive.
Additionally, Lumista is paraben-free, a substance known to be carcinogenic. Its water-based formula ensures it does not increase the risk of fungal or bacterial infections, unlike oil-based lubricants. Lumista also contains auxiliary compounds that maintain its pH within the optimal range for sperm activity. It is recommended to use one applicator of Lumista gel immediately or up to 15 minutes before sexual intercourse. Lumista can be used throughout the entire menstrual cycle.
EnergUp is a herbal product containing Horny Goat Weed, Maca root, Tribulus terrestris, Bisfaij, Tongkat Ali, Saw Palmetto, Muira Puama root, Korean Ginseng, and L-Arginine. It is designed to enhance sexual performance and libido in both men and women, boost energy, physical endurance, and mental alertness, and serve as a complementary treatment for erectile dysfunction in men.
The blend of herbal compounds in EnergUp’s formulation has a long history in complementary medicine as enhancers of libido and sexual function, with recent scientific studies validating these effects. Given the prevalence of sexual dysfunction—particularly its impact on relationships and the widespread use of antidepressants with sexual side effects—EnergUp serves as a safe and effective option to boost energy, physical stamina, and various aspects of sexual wellness for both men and women. The recommended dosage is two capsules daily with food, taken 1–2 hours before physical or sexual activity.
Sperigen contains a complete range of vitamins, essential minerals, and antioxidant compounds. Its consumption supports reproductive health by protecting cells and sperm from the harmful effects of oxidative stress and regulating hormonal activity in men. The components in Sperigen improve sperm count, concentration, morphology, and motility, making this product suitable for men planning to have children. It is recommended to take two Sperigen tablets daily with meals (preferably one in the morning and one in the evening).
Final Words
Sexual health is an inseparable part of overall well-being, encompassing physical, emotional, psychological, and social aspects. Achieving sexual health requires access to comprehensive and accurate education, sexual healthcare, knowledge of preventing sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies, and the ability to experience pleasure, satisfaction, and intimacy. Prioritize your sexual health by seeking reliable educational resources, adhering to hygiene practices to prevent sexually transmitted diseases, and utilizing products designed to enhance sexual wellness.
