Sexual health refers to a state of physical, emotional, mental, and social well-being in relation to sexuality. It encompasses 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.
Key aspects of sexual health include:
Physical Well-being: This includes understanding and taking care of one's reproductive and sexual organs, as well as preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies through safe sex practices and access to contraception.
Emotional and Mental Well-being: Healthy sexual relationships involve mutual respect, trust, communication, and consent. Emotional intimacy and connection are essential components of sexual health, contributing to overall well-being.
Social Well-being: This encompasses the cultural, societal, and familial factors that influence individual sexual health. It involves addressing issues such as gender equality, sexual orientation, and societal attitudes towards sex and sexuality.
Prevention and Management of Sexual Issues: Sexual health also involves addressing and managing sexual dysfunctions, disorders, and concerns such as erectile dysfunction, low libido, and infertility.
Education and Awareness: Comprehensive sexual education plays a crucial role in promoting sexual health. This includes providing accurate information about sexual anatomy and physiology, contraception, STI prevention, consent, and healthy relationships.
Access to Healthcare: Access to sexual and reproductive healthcare services, including counseling, testing, and treatment for STIs, contraception, and reproductive health services, is essential for maintaining sexual health.
Overall, sexual health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being and quality of life. It is influenced by a complex interplay of biological, psychological, social, and cultural factors and requires a holistic approach that addresses all aspects of an individual's sexuality.
Despite little difference in workload and professional responsibilities, women held more domestic responsibilities and experienced and witnessed more racial and sexual discrimination in the workplace. Surprisingly, there were no reported differences in work-life balance or feeling supported at work between genders. These findings suggest that factors unique to female neurosurgeons may contribute to continued gender disparity in the field 1)