Sexual Health Week is observed from the second full Monday to Sunday in September. This year it takes place from September 9 to 15. As part of National Sexual Health Awareness Week, we are highlighting the importance of treating our sexual health as seriously as we would any other aspect of our health, including regular checkups, testing for H.I.V. and sexually transmitted infections (S.T.Is), and raising awareness about issues related to healthy relationships. Talking about sex can be quite embarrassing and even with advancements made to reduce the stigma, there is still some stigma attached to sex. Also, some people don’t have enough knowledge about safe sex practices. That said, let’s take a closer look at Sexual Health Week.
History of Sexual Health Week
Aiming to keep everyone updated regarding sexually transmitted infections (S.T.Is) as well as sex education, Brook, a U.K.-based charity, holds a Sexual Health Week across England to raise awareness of these issues. As a result of the Children and Social Work Act 2017, which established the criteria for the education of relationships and sex education in schools, the government devised a plan to make it mandatory from 2019, with an option to extend the deadline to September 2020 if necessary. Relationships and sex education are now required in all schools, including primary, independent, academies, maintained, and free schools, under the new legislation. Special education facilities are also included in the new legislation.
Sexual Health Week was born out of the belief that everyone deserves a great sex life and that no one should be criticized for it. Sexual health and wellbeing information should be widely accessible. They consider that everyone has the opportunity to make educated decisions about their bodies and know their alternatives.
In previous years, the week has also focused on issues that affect a large number of people, such as alcohol and sexual health, as well as talking to spouses about contraception. In 2010, the very first sexual health campaign aimed at people over 50 was launched. In recent years, there has been an increased worry in the country about children being introduced to sex at an early age. The appearance of sensual themes in popular music videos has increased in recent years.
Sexual Health Week timeline
While abortion is lawful in England, Wales, and Scotland under the Abortion Act, homosexuality is legal in England, Wales, and Scotland under the Sexual Offences Act.
To provide contraception for teenagers under 16, parental consent is needed.
The government announces its strategy to reduce teenage pregnancy rates in England, it calls for better guidelines on contraception for under-16s and new criteria to determine whether or not a program is providing successful services to young people.
This Act set the standards for the education of relationships and sex education in schools, as stipulated by the Children and Social Work Act 2017.
Sexual Health Week FAQs
What is the goal of Sexual Health Week?
A targeted health promotion event addressing topics related to sexual health and relationships will be held to raise awareness about how training and support are available, as well as how they can assist in the formulation of policies.
What is Consent?
To participate in any intimate sex action requires consent. Regardless of age, any sexual contact lacking consent is unlawful. Consent to sexual activity is 16 in the U.K. Any sexual activity involving two people must have both parties’ consent. This includes both genders, straight, gay, or bisexual.
Why is Sexual Health critical?
Sexual health is crucial for pleasant sex life, protection from S.T.Ds, and choice of how and when to procreate or avoid pregnancy. Being sexually healthy includes avoiding unplanned pregnancy and S.T.Ds.
How to Observe Sexual Health Week
Learn more about Sexual Health
Discover stuff about yourself that you didn't know about before. Learn more about your sexual health and wellness so you are up to date with information.
Encourage others to have open conversations
Don’t be afraid to engage in conversation with people and educate them. Encourage people to have open and positive talks about their sexual health and wellness.
Attend sexual health activities
Attend activities that provide you with the resources and confidence you require to provide exciting and inclusive sex education. It could be a webinar, a seminar, a training, anything as long as you are learning.
5 Key Elements Of Sexual Health
It is about well-being
In terms of sexual health, well-being is more important than the absence of sickness.
Freedom
Respect, safety, and freedom from prejudice and abuse are all important aspects of sexual health.
Fulfillment of certain human rights
The fulfillment of certain human rights is necessary for the preservation of one's sexual health.
Lasts for a lifetime
Sexual health is important throughout a person's lifetime, not only for those who are in their reproductive years but also for those who are younger or older.
Manifests in different ways
Sexual health can be manifested in a variety of ways, including through various sexualities and modes of sexual expression.
Why Sexual Health Week is Important
it teaches about consent
Sexual Health Week teaches about consent. People who are aware of positive sexual health are more likely to have consensual sex when they first have sex.
it reduces unplanned pregnancies and S.T.Is
Sexual Health Week helps to reduce pregnancies as people are learning more about and using condoms and contraception. This reduces the rate of unplanned pregnancies and STIs.
It teaches positive sexual health
During this week, make sure you explore more about sexual health. Sexual Health is very important for our bodies and minds. It can help us not rush into having sex if we don’t feel ready no matter the pressure exerted.
Sexual Health Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | September 12 | Monday |
| 2023 | September 11 | Monday |
| 2024 | September 9 | Monday |
| 2025 | September 8 | Monday |
| 2026 | September 14 | Monday |
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