Sexual & Reproductive Health Awareness Day 2023

Significance Of the Day

 Sexual and reproductive health is important components of general health and well-being. However, it cannot be easy to discuss this openly for various reasons. It is essential to remember that sexual and reproductive health is about more than just sexually transmitted illnesses and neglecting pregnancy. It is also about feeling safe and comfortable with your sexuality, having access to quality information and services, and making knowledgeable health decisions.  Human sexuality encompasses issues related to erotism, sexual pleasure and satisfaction, genital mutilation, sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and STDs, and sexual dysfunctions. On the other hand, reproductive health covers childbearing, fertility, proper family planning, etc. This day allows people to learn more about sexual and reproductive health, debate issues that are important, and raise awareness about the importance of related health concerns. 

This day also helps in learning about the use of various forms of contraception, how to protect oneself from STIs, and how to have a healthy and comfortable sexual life.

Objective

• To spread and increase knowledge about having a healthy and safe sex life as well as reproductive health issues.

• To educate people about safe sexual practices

• To increase awareness about the increased risk of developing STIs (sexually transmitted infections) or infections spread through unhygienic sexual practices.

• To improve one's sexual health and inform about various sexual wellness workshops and education.

• To increase awareness about importance of reproductive health and educate people about safe reproductive practices.

• Educating women about family planning and the various types of birth control available.

• Educating people about different sexual wellness supplements and medicines.

• Encouraging more open conversations between partners about sexual health and its various avenues.

How Can We Contribute?

Every individual can and must contribute equally by following certain ways to enhance sexual and reproductive health.

1. Exercising daily for over 30 minutes can improve your overall sexual performance as it releases the feel-good hormone.

2. Ensure proper personal hygiene.

3. Eat a wholesome, balanced diet.

4. Get enough sleep.

5. Manage stress by getting medical advice and take supplements as directed by the physician.

Challenges faced by India

India is a country where sexual health is not discussed in the open. In fact, the topic, being related to ‘sex’ is still considered taboo by many. Due to the associated fear and shame that people have been taught to feel, several sexual health issues tend to go unnoticed and unmanaged for years. With sexual and reproductive health awareness day, the aim is to steadily take India towards being more open and comfortable sexual and reproductive health and practices.